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Summer means longer days, backyard barbecues, and plenty of time outside. It also happens to be peak season for ticks and fleas. These tiny pests can make spending time outdoors a lot less enjoyable, and they can be a real problem for pets and people alike.
While no plant can eliminate ticks or fleas from your yard, some have strong scents that these pests tend to avoid. Adding a few of these plants to your landscape is an easy way to make your outdoor spaces more inviting while growing herbs and flowers you’ll actually enjoy.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a favorite in the kitchen, but it also earns a place in the garden for another reason. Its strong, woody scent can help discourage ticks and fleas from hanging around. Plant it near walkways, patios, or garden beds where you’ll brush against the fragrant leaves.
Lavender
Lavender fills the garden with fragrant purple blooms that people love, but ticks and fleas aren’t nearly as fond of the smell. It grows best in a sunny location with well-drained soil and also does well in containers near patios or porches.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is known for its fresh, clean scent and its many household uses. The aromatic oils found in its leaves may help discourage ticks and fleas. In cooler climates, grow it in large containers so it can be moved indoors during winter.
Basil
Basil does more than flavor homemade meals. Its fragrant leaves can also help keep unwanted insects away. Plant a few pots near outdoor seating areas or doorways where you’ll enjoy both the fresh herbs and the pleasant aroma.
Catnip
Cats may be drawn to catnip, but ticks and fleas generally steer clear of it. This fast-growing herb does well in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Keep an eye on it, though, since it spreads easily if left unchecked.
Garlic
Garlic deserves a place in almost any vegetable garden. Besides producing flavorful bulbs, its strong smell may help discourage ticks and fleas from settling nearby. It’s an easy crop that rewards you long after harvest.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass contains high levels of citral, a natural compound commonly found in insect-repelling products. Its tall, graceful foliage also adds texture to garden beds and looks especially nice around patios and outdoor gathering spaces.
Rue
Rue is a hardy perennial with blue-green leaves and clusters of small yellow flowers. Its strong scent makes it unpopular with ticks and fleas while still attracting pollinators like butterflies. Plant it in full sun where the soil drains well.
Thyme
Thyme is another herb that pulls double duty in the garden. The fragrant oils released from its leaves can help discourage ticks and fleas, especially when the plant is brushed or lightly crushed. It also makes an attractive ground cover in sunny spots.
Marigold
Marigolds brighten up garden beds with cheerful shades of yellow, orange, and gold. Their distinctive scent may help discourage ticks, fleas, and other common garden pests. They’re easy to grow from seed and bloom for months with very little attention.
Sage
Sage is another useful herb that’s worth planting. Its earthy fragrance can help make your yard less appealing to ticks and fleas while giving you fresh leaves for cooking throughout the growing season.
Peppermint
Peppermint has a crisp scent that many people enjoy, but fleas and ticks tend to avoid. Plant it in containers if possible, since mint spreads aggressively once it’s established. A few pots placed around patios or entryways can add fragrance while helping discourage unwanted pests.
