Plants That Repel Ticks Naturally
If you’re trying to enjoy your garden without worrying about ticks, you’re not alone. Ticks can carry serious diseases like Lyme, and they thrive in moist, shady areas. Fortunately, nature offers a solution—many plants contain oils and scents that naturally repel ticks.
Tick-Repelling Plants to Try
Everybody loves a classic herb garden. One of the best-known plants for repelling ticks is Lavender. Its pleasant scent for humans is overwhelming for ticks. Lemongrass is another powerful option, known for its citronella oil, which repels both ticks and mosquitoes. Mint and Rosemary also produce strong essential oils that ticks tend to avoid. These herbs do double-duty, keeping pests away while adding fragrance and ambiance to your herb garden.
Bee balm (Monarda) and the Mountain Mints (Pycnanthemum sp) are native and pollinator-supportive options that help deter ticks. Bee balm contains thymol, a natural insect repellent. Mountain Mint’s Pulegone and Menthone compounds are minty and fresh but ticks hate them.
Planting Garlic around garden borders can also help keep ticks at bay. The sulfur compounds in garlic are released into the soil and air, which may repel many pests—including ticks. The weed Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) anecdotally serves the same function in disturbed American sites.
Keep in Mind
While these plants can reduce tick presence, they won’t eliminate ticks entirely. Pair your planting with good landscape management: keep walking paths clear of high vegetation, allocate leaves to a designated composting space, and create dry borders with gravel or woodchips to discourage tick habitat.
Certainly, adding native wildflowers and herbs that deter ticks is a win-win. You support pollinators, add beauty, and reduce pests—all without harsh chemicals.
Looking to experience less tick exposure this year? Check out the Jessecology article with 8 ideas for reducing your exposure to ticks at home.