13 Indoor Plants That Saved My Sanity From Pests

Spring rolls around, and suddenly, my home is a battleground—mosquitoes in May, fruit flies in July, and an influx of gnats that seem to appear out of nowhere every time I leave a banana out for too long. Winter is the only time I get a break, and even then, I swear I’ve seen the occasional spider braving the cold. As someone with allergies, chemical sprays aren’t always an option, which means I’ve had to get creative with pest control. That’s where indoor plants come in.

Over the years, I’ve figured out which plants actually help keep pests at bay—not just the ones that get tossed around in every “bug-repelling plants” list but the ones that have made a noticeable difference in my space. The best part is that most of these plants are easy to care for. 

If you’ve ever crushed a basil leaf between your fingers, you know how strong its scent is. That’s the very reason basil does such a great job keeping flies and mosquitoes away. I like to keep a small basil plant near my window, where pests are most likely to invade. It’s simple, natural, and works wonders.

Rosemary has a distinct, aromatic scent that mosquitoes seem to dislike. This herb not only helps bring out the flavor in my meals but also keeps my space pest-free. Since I’ve added it, I’ve noticed far fewer insects. Plus, it’s a resilient plant that thrives even in less-than-ideal conditions, so you won’t have to worry much about its upkeep.

When it comes to keeping mosquitoes at bay, citronella and lemongrass are my top choices. Both have strong citrus fragrances that mosquitoes can’t stand. Keeping citronella near the entryway can help minimize the swarms of mosquitoes that hover around, usually when it starts to get dark. These indoor plants add a refreshing scent to my home as well.

Mint is one of those plants that just doesn’t quit. It grows quickly, smells fresh, and drives ants, mosquitoes, and even spiders away. The menthol in mint leaves is what pests hate most. I keep it in pots—because it spreads like wildfire—and occasionally snip a sprig for tea or dessert. It’s a win-win.

I didn’t expect much when I first picked up a lemon balm plant, but it quickly proved its worth. It smells like a zesty cousin to mint, and its citronellal content makes it a pest deterrent. Mosquitoes, in particular, don’t appreciate its aroma. It’s a forgiving plant that doesn’t need constant attention, and it also brings a calming vibe to my space.

If you’ve ever smelled lavender, you know how its fragrance fills the air and leaves a pleasant scent. Yet, this same smell delivers a death blow to many pests around us. The secret lies in its flowers, which contain linalool, a compound that naturally repels flies and mosquitoes. By placing lavender by the front door and giving it minimal care—such as regular pruning and deadheading—you can maintain an indoor space that is not only bug-free but also full of fragrance.

Marigolds might look like just cheerful garden flowers, but can actually be helpful in keeping little pest at bay. They release pyrethrum, a natural insect repellent that deters aphids, mosquitoes, and beetles. Interestingly, marigolds can also improve the soil around them by deterring nematodes—tiny, root-damaging pests.

This one’s an absolute no-brainer to keep in your home. Instead of simply repelling pests with their scent, carnivorous indoor plants like the Venus flytrap rely on them for nutrition. They are ideal to keep in areas prone to gnats or flies and they thrive in humid conditions with nutrient-poor soil. Plus, watching a carnivorous plant do its thing is an experience in itself!

While catnip is well-known for driving cats wild, it also repels pests, especially mosquitoes. Catnip contains nepetalactone, a chemical that repels mosquitoes more effectively than some commercial sprays. It grows quickly in various soil types and doesn’t need much attention. It’s a simple plant that offers more than one kind of joy.

With this plant in your house, there is no chance for crawling insects to roam around. With its cascading vines, this goes beyond being just a insect deterrent; it helps filter the air too. It thrives in low light and doesn’t need a ton of attention. I like to think of it as the introverted roommate who quietly contributes without demanding the spotlight.

Coleus is known for its bold, colorful leaves, but it’s also effective at repelling mosquitoes and ants. Growing this plant indoors is not rocket science — what it requires to thrive is partial shade and moist soil. Coleus varieties come in a range of patterns and hues, so they’re perfect for adding personality to your pest-control efforts while creating visual interest.

Chrysanthemums are gardeners’ and florists’ favorites for their diverse colors, shapes, and long-lasting blooms. But they are my favorite for two reasons: they are hard on pests such as mosquitoes, flies, and even some crawling insects, but do no harm to mammals or birds. By just placing a pot of chrysanthemums (or simply mums) near doors or windows, you can create a natural barrier against unwanted guests. Not only will you enjoy their cheerful colors, but you’ll also have a fragrant and effective way to keep your home bug-free.

Sage is another fantastic indoor plant for repelling pests. Its strong, aromatic scent naturally keeps mosquitoes, flies, and moths at bay. Simply place a pot near windows or doorways to create a barrier against unwanted insects. For an even stronger effect, lightly crush the leaves to release more of its powerful fragrance. Beyond its pest-deterring properties, sage adds a touch of natural beauty and a calming fragrance to any indoor space.