Pests have a way of infesting a garden, no matter how meticulous you are at keeping destructive critters at bay. Most growers control pests using chemicals but if you'd like to try the all-natural route, it is possible to grow a pest-free garden organically.

Growing some plants help repel certain species of garden pests. These plants keep your outdoor space bug-free without polluting the soil or affecting your garden’s microflora.

Lavender

Love the soothing scent of lavender? That's great news if your garden is always infested by mosquitos and fleas. Growing lavender repels these common garden pests along with other garden insects thanks to its distinct fragrance!

What's more, you can extract the oil from the lavender blossoms and create your own all-natural mosquito repellant. You can also use the dried lavender flowers to keep moths from destroying your clothes in the closet. If you are planting lavender to ward off garden pests, we highly recommend planting it around or near the seating areas. This way, you can enjoy your outdoor space without being bitten by bugs.

Chrysanthemums

Thinking of building a flower garden? Don’t forget to add chrysanthemums to your flower garden to keep your outdoor space pest-free. Chrysanthemums are often added to dog shampoos because the blossoms contain a chemical that repels ticks and fleas. In addition, chrysanthemums are effective in warding off ants, spider mites, Japanese beetles, silverfish, even bed bugs, and roaches!

Chrysanthemums make the perfect companion plants in vegetable gardens too. They add a pop of color to the garden while also repelling different garden bugs. Again, plant the chrysanthemums near seating areas so you can relax and enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about bugs ruining the experience.

Basil

Aromatic herbs are often used to ward off garden critters but basil, in particular, is so potent, it is commonly used as a companion plant in vegetable gardens! Basil is effective in repelling common houseflies and mosquitoes. This herb is so good at warding off bugs that you can make an all-natural insect repellent using fresh basil leaves. Just pour 4 ounces of boiling water into a handful of fresh basil leaves. Let the mixture steep for several hours, strain then add 4 ounces of cheap vodka. Transfer to a spray bottle and spritz away!

Since this herb does not grow too big, you can grow basil in small pots and set the pots in strategic spots in the garden to control pests. You can also set a pot of basil (or three) near the kitchen to discourage flies from entering your house.

Nasturtium

Nasturtium is a type of annual plant prized for its golden blossoms and soft, green leaves. This easy to grow flowering plant is also loved by gardeners for its uncanny ability to repel a variety of common garden insects, including whiteflies and aphids.

Nasturtiums release an airborne chemical that wards off destructive insects. To control garden pests, plant Nasturtiums around the patio or along flower beds. You can use nasturtiums as companion plants to certain vegetables.

Lemongrass

Citronella oil is a popular ingredient in scented candles and natural insect repellants because of its ability to ward off mosquitoes. The oil is extracted from lemongrass, a type of ornamental grass that could also keep common garden bugs at bay all thanks to its strong citrusy fragrance. The plant itself is an eye-catching ornamental plant and it's often grown as an accent to most types of gardens. Lemongrass does not grow too big so it well suited in container gardens too.

Marigolds

Marigold adds a vivid pop of deep yellow to outdoor landscapes. This flowering plant is so easy to grow so if you are new to gardening, try adding marigolds to your garden! Marigolds just need the full sun and well-draining soil to thrive. The best part about growing marigolds is that they could deter a variety of insects including mosquitoes, squash bugs, aphids, and tomato worms! Marigolds are naturally rich in a chemical that's used in making natural insect repellants.

To make the most out of marigold’s ability to ward off destructive insects, set the plant in strategic spots all over the garden. You can place pots of marigolds around the patio, near doorways, or on a windowsill to deter invading insects.

Mint

Here's another reason to love mint: this refreshing herb repels a multitude of bugs including mosquitos and ants. It can also deter small rodents like mice! This easy to grow herb spreads easily so a small pot of mint will definitely go a long way! Its pretty, vivid green foliage will also make any garden setting alive with color!

You can use fresh mint leaves to make your own natural insect repellant. Just crush the mint leaves, add a little apple cider vinegar and witch hazel then transfer the concoction in a spray bottle. Spritz away whenever you head out to keep bugs away. You can also use the mint leaves as an herb or garnish to foods and drinks!

Petunias

Love petunias? This flowering plant is a favorite among growers because the blossoms add mountains of color to the garden. This annual plant produces flowers all season long and the flowers come in many colors. In fact, new varieties are being launched each year!

Petunias are not only pretty to look at; the flowers emit a sweet fragrance that lures destructive insects in. The plant has sticky hairs that trap insects and the plant roots eventually absorb the nutrients from the bodies of the dead insects.

Rosemary

Who doesn't love rosemary? This aromatic herb is often used to season meats and poultry. The herb adds a lovely aroma to many dishes, including holiday staples and sauces. Apart from making any dish ten times tastier, rosemary is an efficient pest repellant. It could ward off flies, mosquitos, and cabbage moths thanks to its pungent aroma.

This herb thrives in pots so you can set a pot or two on the kitchen windowsill to repel annoying insects and keep your home bug-free. You can also plant rosemary in strategic places in the garden to discourage bugs from noshing on your plants.

Garlic

Rounding up our list of the best pest-repelling plants to grow in the garden is garlic. This herb could deter all sorts of crawling and flying insects, including mosquitos and nibbling beetles. No need to whip up any concoction to make your own natural insect repellant using garlic. The plant itself works to deter insects. That's why we recommend planting garlic in strategic places in the garden to keep creepy crawlies away. However, you can make a more potent insect repellant using fresh garlic cloves!