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Chipmunks may appear harmless, but their digging, chewing, and constant curiosity can cause significant damage to garden beds. They uproot seedlings, snack on blooms, and leave a mess behind—especially in areas with loose soil or newly planted flowers.
Some annuals naturally discourage chipmunks thanks to their scent, taste, or texture—while still inviting bees, butterflies, and other helpful pollinators. If you’re looking to protect your garden without sacrificing beauty or biodiversity, these 10 annual flowers offer the best of both worlds.
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigold plants are bountiful, rich, colorful flowers that can deter chipmunks. These hardy flowers are easy to grow and require full sun to bloom. Incorporating these flowers into your garden bed will beautify your space and help keep the chipmunks away.
Sage
Sage is a tough, aromatic herb that enhances meals and repels chipmunks. The plant’s natural oils produce a scent that chipmunks dislike. Sage grows well in sunny spots with well-drained soil, making it easy to incorporate into herb gardens or patio containers.
Geranium
Geraniums are colorful flowering plants that add beauty to your garden. They are also great for keeping chipmunks far, far away. Geraniums are easy to care for and grow well in pots or gardens.
Peppermint
Peppermint is a refreshing herb. Mint’s intense scent can mask more tempting plants and deter nibblers. This fast-growing plant thrives in containers, making it easy to position near outdoor seating areas. Peppermint can be used in teas, cooking, and homemade insect sprays. Since it spreads quickly, planting it in pots helps control its growth.
Garlic
Garlic does more than add flavor to your favorite dishes—it also helps keep chipmunks away. The sulfur compounds released by
Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)
Nasturtiums are edible flowers that are also self-pollinating. The flowers are usually large, colorful, and delicate, with a peppery taste. This slightly bitter taste can keep chipmunks from chewing on nearby plants. This fast-growing flower grows well on the ground or in containers, spilling over the edge of the garden.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has a bright citrus scent that chipmunks dislike. In fact, this sharp citrus scent can confuse or deter small mammals. This hardy perennial is easy to grow in the ground or pots, though it spreads quickly and may take over garden beds if not contained.
Cleome
Cleome, also known as the spider flower, brings a touch of wild elegance to any garden. Thanks to its strong scent and slightly sticky foliage, cleome is typically left untouched by chipmunks.
Lantana
This sun-loving perennial is treated as an annual in cooler climates but is hardy in zones 9-11. Its clusters of small, brightly colored flowers can attract butterflies and hummingbirds. However, lantana can be unappealing to chipmunks and other wildlife, making it a perfect addition to any garden.
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Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria)
The silver leaves of the dusty miller plant are often used as a contrast in flower beds and containers. The pale leaves stand out especially well when paired with deep purples, reds, or blue flowers. This plant will deter chipmunks.
This annual (also grown as a perennial in USDA zones 8–10) is drought-tolerant. Plant in full sun with well-draining soil.
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