What Plants Repel Wasps

If you’re looking to enjoy your outdoor space without the unwelcome buzz of wasps, knowing what plants repel wasps is a great first step. You can naturally deter these stinging insects by adding specific greenery to your garden, patio, or balcony.

This method is safe, chemical-free, and adds beauty to your yard. Let’s look at the best plants to use and how to place them for the best effect.

Certain plants produce strong scents or oils that wasps find offensive. These aromas mask the sweet smells that often attract them, creating a natural barrier. Here are the most effective choices.

Strongly Scented Herbs

Many common herbs are excellent wasp deterrents. They’re also useful for cooking, making them a dual-purpose addition.

Spearmint & Peppermint: Wasps strongly dislike the potent smell of mint. Be careful to plant it in pots, as it can spread aggressively in garden beds.
Thyme: This low-growing herb is perfect for borders or between patio stones. Its creeping varieties release scent when brushed against.
Lemongrass: It contains citronella, a natural oil that repels wasps and mosquitoes. It thrives in warm, sunny spots.
Wormwood: With its silvery foliage and strong odor, wormwood is a powerful repellent. It’s ornamental but can inhibit growth of nearby plants, so give it space.

Fragrant Flowers and Shrubs

These plants add color and fragrance to your garden while keeping wasps at a distance.

Marigolds: The distinct smell of marigolds, particularly French marigolds, deters wasps and nematodes. They are easy to grow from seed.
Geraniums: Especially the citronella-scented variety, geraniums offer bright blooms and a repellent fragrance. They do well in containers.
Eucalyptus: The strong aroma from its leaves is effective. You can grow it in pots in cooler climates and bring it indoors in winter.
Citronella Grass (the plant): This is the source of citronella oil. It’s a large, clumping grass that needs full sun and regular watering.

Other Effective Repellent Plants

Some plants don’t fit neatly into the herb or flower categories but work wonderfully.

Cucumber: The bitterness of cucumber peels, especially the slices, seems to annoy wasps. Placing peels on patio tables can offer short-term relief.
Basil: The strong scent of basil, particularly cinnamon or lemon basil varieties, helps repel wasps. It loves heat and sun.
Pennyroyal: This is a very potent member of the mint family. It should be used with caution if you have pets or small children, as it can be toxic if ingested.

How to Use These Plants for Maximum Effect

Simply planting them in your garden isn’t always enough. Strategic placement is key to creating a wasp-deterrent zone.

Identify High-Traffic Areas

First, note where you and wasps spend the most time. Common zones include:

Doorways and windows
Patio or deck dining areas
Around garbage or recycling bins
Near children’s play equipment

Create Protective Borders

Plant a perimeter of repellent plants around these key areas. For example, line your patio edge with pots of mint, marigolds, and thyme. This creates a scent barrier wasps are reluctant to cross.

Use Containers for Flexibility

Containers are your best friend for wasp-repelling gardens. They allow you to:

Move plants to where they’re needed most for an event.
Control invasive plants like mint.
Place plants on tables or hang them overhead for closer protection.

Crush Leaves to Release Oils

Gently rubbing or crushing the leaves of plants like mint, basil, or wormwood releases more of their essential oils. Do this occasionally to boost their scent, especially before you have guests over.

What to Avoid in Your Garden

Just as important as planting repellents is avoiding plants and situations that attract wasps.

Overly Sweet Flowers: Some very fragrant, sweet blooms can attract wasps. Be mindful with plants like sweet freesia or certain fruit tree blossoms if wasps are a severe problem.
Fallen Fruit: Promptly clean up any fallen fruit from trees or berry bushes, as the fermenting sugar attracts them.
Open Food and Drink: Always cover food and sugary drinks during outdoor meals. Keep trash cans tightly sealed.

Building a Wasp-Repellent Planter

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make a powerful, mobile repellent planter.

Choose a large pot (at least 12 inches wide) with good drainage holes.
Fill it with a high-quality potting mix.
Select 3-4 plants from the list above. A good combo is: one centerpiece (like lemongrass or citronella geranium), a trailing plant (creeping thyme), and a filler (marigolds or basil).
Plant them in the pot, water thoroughly, and place it near your seating area.
Water regularly to keep the plants healthy and fragrant, but don’t overwater.

Natural Wasp Deterrent Sprays from Your Garden

You can make a simple spray using your repellent plants for extra protection on surfaces.

Harvest a handful of leaves from plants like mint, lemongrass, or wormwood.
Boil them in 2 cups of water for 10-15 minutes.
Let the mixture cool completely, then strain it into a spray bottle.
Add a tablespoon of mild dish soap (to help the spray stick).
Lightly spray around window sills, door frames, and patio furniture. Avoid spraying directly on plants in full sun, and always test a small area first.

Common Questions About Repelling Wasps Naturally

Do fake wasp nests work?

Sometimes. Wasps are territorial, so a fake nest (like a paper bag) can deter them from building nearby. It’s not a guaranteed solution but can be combined with plants for better results.

Are these plants safe for bees?

Most of these plants repel wasps but not bees. Bees are attracted to many of the flowers, like marigolds and herbs when they bloom. This is a benefit, as we want to protect our important bee pollinators while discouraging wasps.

How quickly will I see results?

Once established and growing well, the plants will start to create a scent barrier. For immediate results, use the crushed leaf method or a homemade spray alongside the plants.

What if I already have a wasp nest?

Repellent plants are a preventive measure. They are unlikely to eliminate an existing nest. For an active nest, contact a professional pest removal service for safe handling.

Can I just use essential oils instead?

Yes, oils like peppermint, lemongrass, and clove can be effective in diffusers or soaked in cotton balls placed outdoors. However, live plants provide a longer-lasting, more sustainable solution and improve your garden’s health.

Using plants to deter wasps is a smart, eco-friendly strategy. By choosing the right plants and placing them strategically, you can create a more peaceful outdoor environment. Remember, consistency is key—a well-maintained garden of repellent plants offers the best ongoing protection. Start with a few pots of mint and marigolds, and observe the difference they make around your home.