Spring is knocking on the door. Though fresh air, sunshine, and beautiful blooms will soon arrive, so will certain pests like wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets. These dangerous insects nest on and around homes each year, causing concern and headaches for homeowners. But that doesn’t mean they have to invade your property this year. Certain aromatic plants function as natural forms of pest control, and with a little strategic gardening, you can protect your family from these stinging insects throughout the warm months.

Natural Pest Control Plants for Your Garden

1. Marigolds

Bright and beautiful, marigolds are a hardy plant in the sunflower family. The scented varieties have a pungent smell that will ward off these winged pests.

2. Eucalyptus

Although beloved by marsupials, wasps and their relatives can’t stand eucalyptus. The oil from its leaves is a common ingredient in sinus decongestants. You can grow it as either a tree or a shrub.

3. Lemongrass

With its long, hardy leaves, lemongrass can serve as an attractive, textural anchor in your landscaping. As its name suggests, it offers a clean, citrusy scent that’s often used in home cleaning products. Aside from wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets, lemongrass also helps repel mosquitos.

4. Thyme

Another delicious and fragrant herb that does double duty as pest control is thyme. This perennial evergreen will serve you for years to come. It can be used fresh or dried, so be sure to save those sprigs.

5. Mint

Finally, the last aromatic you should include in your garden is mint—specifically, the spearmint and peppermint variations. Keep in mind that they can grow quite rapidly, so if you’re unfamiliar with this plant, start with containers instead of planting it in the ground.

As useful as these plants may be, sometimes you need professional intervention. If you’re in Middle Tennessee and you’ve spotted wasps or a nest nearby, call Midstate Termite & Pest Control at (877) 526-4222. Located in Cookeville, they’ve served the region for nearly 70 years. Known for their dedication, this locally owned company offers a 100% guarantee on their services, so you can trust they’ll do their best to clear things up. For more information about their pest control process, visit their website.