Herbs That Repel Insects
Many people ask us which herbs repel insects. So what herb plants are effective for chasing away those pesty pets? The following is a list of Herb plants in alphabetical order with the pest they chase away. Remember, you must occasionally bruise or rub the leaves to activate the fragrances that do the chasing!
| Common Name | Botanical Name | Pests Repelled |
| Holy Basil | Ocimum sanctum | flys and mosquitoes |
| Lavender | Laverdula | mosquitoes and gnats |
| Lemon Balm | Melissa officinalis | mosquitoes and gnats |
| Lemon Thyme | Thymus x citruidirus | mosquitoes and gnats |
| Mexican Marigold | Tagetes minuta | mosquitoes and gnats |
| Mugwort | Artemisia vulgaris | moths |
| Pennyroyal mint | Mentha pulegium | fleas and ticks |
| Pyrethrum | Chrysanthemum cineriifolium | mites, aphids, and leaf hoppers |
| Santolina | Santolina chamaecyparissus | all insects |
| Scented Geranium (Lemon Rose) | Pelargonium graveolens | mosquitoes and gnats |
| Southernwood | Artemisia abrotanum | moths |
| Tansy | Tanacetum vulare | ants |
Santolina has been found to be the most effective insect repellent in the garden. Plant several plants in the corners of your gardens and rub them every day.
- Info taken from Gilbertie's Herb Gardens - Easton, CT