Fri Sep 11, 2026 | Updated 09:03 PM IST

5 Plants That Help Keep Ants Away From Your House

Discover easy to grow plants to keep ants away from your home. Learn which herbs or flowers act as effective ant repellents while adding beauty and fragrance to your space.
Updated:- 2026-04-22, 12:08 IST
Plants That Help Keep Ants Away From House

Plants That Help Keep Ants Away From House: Ants are a common household problem, creeping into kitchens and gardens in search of food. Instead of relying on harsh chemicals, certain plants can act as natural ant repellents. These plants not only help keep ants at bay, but they can also add beauty to your space and fresh fragrance to your surroundings. Here are some of the best plants that will help keep ants away from your house:

Top 5 Plants That Keep Ants Out of House

1. Mint

Mint is one of the most popular plants for repelling ants naturally. This aromatic herb gives off a strong scent that ants find unpleasant, so they tend to steer clear of areas where mint grows. According to a 2011 research, “Beside their medicinal properties mint and its various species have also been known for its insecticidal value against ants, mosquitoes, wasps, hornets and cockroaches.” Whether you choose peppermint or other mint varieties, planting them in pots or along pathways near your home can help keep ants at bay.

Mint

2. Basil

Basil isn’t just great in the kitchen – it’s also useful outdoors. The powerful scent of basil leaves can disrupt ant trails and discourage ants from entering gardens or outdoor areas. Growing basil near entrances or outdoor garden area is a simple and attractive way to keep ants away. Also, you can enjoy fresh basil in your cooking straight from the garden.

Basil

3. Lavender

Lavender is known for its calming scent and pretty purple flowers, but ants don’t appreciate its intense fragrance. Growing lavender near doorways, windows or along garden borders creates a scented boundary that ants are less likely to cross. According to 2022 research, “This essential oil (Lavender) was found to exhibit insecticidal activity depending on the concentration and exposure period.” Lavender is easy to care for, adding both beauty and purpose to your home garden.

Lavender

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4. Rosemary

Rosemary is another excellent choice for deterring ants. Its woody fragrance is pleasant to us but off‑putting to ants, so planting rosemary around entryways or in garden beds can help reduce ant activity. Use dried rosemary bundles or fresh cuttings placed on windowsills or in cabinets to repel ants indoors. You can also mix rosemary essential oil with water to spray on countertops.

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5. Chrysanthemums

If you want a colourful option, chrysanthemums are a good choice. These flowers contain natural compounds that act as a mild insect deterrent, helping keep ants and other bugs at bay. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “The insecticidal and insect-repellent properties of some types of chrysanthemums have been recognised for thousands of years. In particular, the Dalmatian chrysanthemum, or Tanacetum cinerariifolium, is an important source of the natural botanical insecticide, pyrethrum.” Chrysanthemums look beautiful in the garden, making them a lovely and practical addition to your outdoor space.

Chrysanthemums

Using plants to help keep ants away is a natural, safe, and eco‑friendly approach. These plants can be an attractive way to reduce ant visits without harsh chemicals.

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