Flies are the worst. They buzz around your food, crash your backyard hangouts, and somehow always find a way inside your house. Not only are they annoying, but they can also spread germs. If you’re tired of constantly swatting them away or using chemical sprays, there’s a natural solution—plants! That’s right, certain plants repel flies simply by existing. Their scents and natural oils make flies want to steer clear, helping you enjoy a pest-free space without any effort.
Let’s dive into the top 10 plants that keep flies away and how you can use them to protect your home and garden.
Why Do Some Plants Repel Flies?
Plants don’t just look pretty; many produce strong scents and essential oils that insects, including flies, absolutely hate. These natural chemicals interfere with a fly’s ability to find food and resting spots, making them avoid areas where these plants grow.
Unlike chemical sprays that can be harmful to pets and people, fly-repelling plants are safe, eco-friendly, and effective. Plus, many of them smell amazing to us, which is a win-win!
Top 10 Plants That Repel Flies
Now, let’s explore the top 10 plants that can help you banish flies from your home and garden, naturally!
Citronella
You’ve probably seen citronella candles at outdoor parties, and there’s a reason for that—citronella is one of the most effective natural insect repellents. It gives off a strong lemony scent that flies (and mosquitoes) can’t stand.
Best Use: Plant it in pots around your patio or backyard, or keep small potted citronella plants indoors near open windows.
Lavender
Lavender isn’t just great for relaxation—it’s also an excellent fly repellent. While we love its sweet, calming scent, flies find it overwhelming. Bonus: it also repels mosquitoes and moths!
Best Use: Grow it in garden beds, window boxes, or pots near doors and windows. You can also dry the flowers and place them around the house.
Basil
Basil makes your pasta taste better and keeps flies away. The strong scent of this herb is too much for flies to handle, especially when the leaves are crushed.
Best Use: Keep a pot of fresh basil in your kitchen, near doors, or on a windowsill. You can also plant it in your garden alongside other herbs.
Rosemary
Rosemary’s strong, earthy smell is a no-go zone for flies. It’s a fantastic herb for cooking, and it thrives both indoors and outdoors.
How to use it: Plant it in your garden or keep a small pot on your windowsill to naturally ward off flies.
Mint
Mint smells fresh and amazing to us, but flies? Nope, they can’t stand it! It’s super easy to grow and even spreads quickly (so watch out if you plant it in the ground).
How to use it: Keep mint in pots on your porch, kitchen counter, or near doors to block flies from getting in.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass contains citronella, the same stuff that makes citronella candles work. It’s got a fresh, lemony scent that makes flies want to stay far away.
How to use it: Grow it in pots on your patio or in your garden for an extra layer of protection.
Marigolds
Marigolds don’t just add color to your garden; they also give off a pungent smell that flies dislike. Plus, they help keep away mosquitoes and other garden pests.
How to use it: Plant marigolds around your vegetable garden or in flower beds to create a fly-free zone.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus has a strong, menthol-like scent that flies and other bugs find overwhelming. It’s commonly used in essential oils, but having the actual plant is even better.
How to use it: Grow eucalyptus in large pots near windows and doorways to stop flies before they enter.
Tansy
Tansy isn’t as well-known as the others, but trust me, it works! This herb has a strong, almost medicinal smell that flies really dislike.
How to use it: Plant tansy near garbage bins, compost piles, or anywhere flies tend to gather.
Bay Leaves
Bay leaves are a kitchen staple that also happens to repel flies. Their bitter aroma keeps pests away from food storage areas.
How to use it: Place dried bay leaves in your pantry, on kitchen shelves, or near windows to create an invisible fly barrier.
How to Use These Plants Effectively
Now that you know which plants work best, here’s where to put them for maximum fly-fighting power:
- In the kitchen – Keeps flies away from food.
- On patios and balconies – Protects outdoor seating areas.
- Around garbage bins – Prevents flies from gathering where they love to breed.
Extra Fly-Fighting Tips
- Make a DIY fly spray – Mix water with essential oils from citronella, eucalyptus, or lavender and spritz it around your home.
- Use fly traps – Pairing plants with natural fly traps can be super effective. Or you can get one from Amazon!
- Keep things clean – Even the best plants won’t work if there’s food or trash attracting flies in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best plant to repel flies?
The best plant to repel flies is citronella. It has a strong, lemony scent that flies really dislike. It’s perfect for both outdoor gardens and indoor pots.
What smell do flies absolutely hate?
Flies absolutely hate strong, citrusy smells like those from citronella and lemongrass. They also stay away from herbs like lavender and mint because of their strong aromas.
How do you keep flies away outside?
To keep flies away outside, plant citronella, marigolds, or lemongrass around your garden or patio. These plants have scents that flies find unpleasant, helping to keep them away naturally.
