Flies can be a major nuisance in homes, gardens, and outdoor spaces, but nature provides an effective solution—plants that repel flies. These plants emit strong fragrances or contain natural compounds that deter flies and other pests without the need for chemical sprays. By incorporating these fly-repelling plants into your environment, you can create a more pleasant and pest-free space.
From fragrant herbs to insect-repelling flowers, a wide variety of plants that repel flies are available for every type of garden or home setting. Some plants, like basil and lavender, release scents that flies dislike, while others, such as pitcher plants and Venus flytraps, go a step further by trapping and consuming them. Whether you prefer ornamental flowers, culinary herbs, or carnivorous plants, there is a natural fly-repelling option for you.
In this guide, we will explore 40 different plants that repel flies, complete with pictures and names, to help you choose the best options for your space. Whether you want to protect your patio, kitchen, or vegetable garden, these plants offer an eco-friendly way to keep flies at bay while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your surroundings.
Common Plants That Naturally Repel Flies
Mint (Mentha spp.)
The strong menthol fragrance of mint deters flies and other pests, making it a great addition to any insect-repelling garden. Its refreshing aroma is useful in both culinary and medicinal applications, adding to its versatility.
Mint is a hardy plant that grows vigorously in moist soil with partial to full sun exposure. Due to its aggressive spreading nature, it is best grown in containers to prevent it from overtaking other plants. Regular trimming helps maintain its growth and enhances its aroma.
Placing potted mint near entryways or outdoor dining spaces can help keep flies away. Crushing the leaves occasionally will release more scent, increasing its effectiveness as a natural insect repellent.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary’s woody scent naturally repels flies and mosquitoes, making it a beneficial plant for outdoor and indoor spaces. Its needle-like leaves also serve as a flavorful culinary herb, commonly used in Mediterranean dishes.
This drought-tolerant herb thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for gardens, patios, and kitchen windows. It requires minimal watering once established and can be shaped into decorative topiaries.
To enhance its insect-repelling properties, plant rosemary near outdoor seating areas, doorways, or barbecue spaces. Burning a few sprigs in a fire pit can also help keep flies and mosquitoes away during outdoor gatherings.
Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds produce a distinct smell that repels flies and other insects like mosquitoes and aphids. Their bright orange and yellow blooms add a vibrant touch to gardens while serving a functional purpose in pest control.
These hardy flowers thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them easy to grow in various climates. They require minimal maintenance and bloom continuously throughout the warmer months, providing long-lasting protection against pests.
To maximize their fly-repelling effects, plant marigolds around vegetable gardens, entryways, and patio spaces. Their strong scent will help deter insects while attracting beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil emits a strong aroma that flies dislike, making it an excellent natural repellent. Placing basil near doorways, windows, or outdoor seating areas can help keep flies at bay. It is also a great culinary herb, offering both practical and flavorful benefits.
This herb thrives in warm temperatures, requiring well-drained soil and full sun to grow efficiently. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents it from flowering too early. It can be grown in garden beds or containers for easy maintenance.
To maximize its fly-repelling properties, consider planting basil near outdoor seating areas or entry points. Crushing the leaves slightly will release more of its strong aroma, enhancing its effectiveness as a natural insect deterrent.
Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender’s pleasant scent is loved by humans but repels flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. The plant produces beautiful purple flowers that add both visual appeal and functionality to gardens and patios. It is commonly used in sachets and essential oils for its calming properties.
This drought-resistant plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers dry conditions and should not be overwatered. Lavender is perfect for rock gardens, borders, or potted arrangements on balconies and patios.
To deter flies, plant lavender near windows, doors, or seating areas where insects are a nuisance. Dried lavender bundles can also be placed indoors to provide long-lasting protection against unwanted pests.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Lemongrass contains citronella, a well-known natural insect repellent that effectively keeps flies, mosquitoes, and other pests away. Its fresh, citrus-like scent is pleasant for humans but unappealing to insects. This makes it a great addition to outdoor spaces, especially in areas prone to flies.
This tropical grass thrives in warm climates with full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It can be grown in garden beds or large pots, making it a versatile choice for patios and balconies. Regular trimming encourages fresh growth and enhances its insect-repelling properties.
To maximize its effectiveness, plant lemongrass around seating areas, doorways, or windows. You can also crush or rub the leaves to release more of its natural oils, increasing its ability to deter flies and mosquitoes.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
While catnip is famous for attracting cats, it is highly effective at repelling flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. Studies have shown that catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that repels insects more effectively than some commercial insect sprays.
This hardy herb is easy to grow in full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate different conditions and spreads quickly, so growing it in containers is recommended to prevent it from taking over garden beds. Regular pruning helps keep its growth manageable.
To use catnip as a natural fly deterrent, plant it near outdoor seating areas or around the house. Crushing the leaves will release more of its insect-repelling compounds, making it even more effective against flies.
Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)
Bay laurel is an evergreen shrub whose aromatic leaves contain compounds that repel flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. Traditionally, dried bay leaves have been used in kitchens to keep pests away from food storage areas.
This plant grows well in pots or directly in the ground, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can be pruned into an attractive hedge or kept in a small container for easy access to its insect-repelling properties.
To keep flies at bay, place potted bay laurel near doors, windows, or outdoor seating areas. Dried leaves can also be scattered around kitchens and pantries to prevent insect infestations.
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)
Tansy has a strong scent that effectively repels flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. Traditionally used as a natural insect repellent, it contains compounds like thujone, which deter pests naturally. Its bright yellow button-like flowers add visual appeal to gardens while serving a functional purpose.
This hardy perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It grows vigorously and can become invasive if not controlled, so regular pruning is necessary. Tansy is often planted near vegetable gardens to help protect crops from insect pests.
To use tansy as a fly deterrent, plant it near outdoor gathering spaces or dry its leaves and place them indoors. Rubbing the leaves occasionally releases more scent, increasing its repellent effect against flies and mosquitoes.
Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum spp.)
Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrin, a natural insecticidal compound commonly used in pest control products. This makes them highly effective at repelling flies, mosquitoes, and other insects while adding beauty to gardens and patios.
These flowers grow best in full sun and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. They require regular watering and occasional pruning to encourage blooming. Chrysanthemums are often used as companion plants in gardens to keep pests away from vegetables and herbs.
For best results, plant chrysanthemums around the home, near doors, or in outdoor seating areas. Dried chrysanthemum flowers can also be used in homemade insect repellents, providing a natural and chemical-free way to deter flies.
Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic is not only a popular culinary ingredient but also a natural insect repellent. Its strong, pungent odor effectively keeps flies, mosquitoes, and other pests away. Planting garlic around the garden or near entry points can help reduce the presence of unwanted insects.
This hardy plant thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. It is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance, making it a practical choice for natural pest control. In addition to its insect-repelling benefits, garlic can also improve soil health and deter pests from vegetable gardens.
To maximize its fly-repelling properties, plant garlic around patios, doorways, and windows. Crushed garlic cloves can also be placed in small dishes indoors or used in homemade sprays to enhance its effectiveness against flies.
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
Pennyroyal, a member of the mint family, has a strong fragrance that effectively repels flies. This plant is commonly used in natural insect repellents and can be grown in pots or garden beds to keep flies at bay.
Pennyroyal thrives in moist, well-drained soil with full to partial sun. Like other mint species, it spreads rapidly, so growing it in containers can help control its growth. Regular trimming releases more of its scent, increasing its insect-repelling properties.
While pennyroyal is an effective fly deterrent, it is toxic to pets and should be planted with caution. Keep it in areas that are inaccessible to animals, and avoid using it in places where pets may accidentally consume it.
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Sage is a fragrant herb that serves as both a culinary ingredient and a natural fly repellent. Its strong aroma discourages flies from lingering in outdoor spaces, making it an excellent addition to gardens and patios.
This drought-tolerant herb prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is easy to grow and can be maintained with minimal effort. Sage also attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a valuable plant for any garden.
To repel flies effectively, plant sage near windows, doors, and outdoor seating areas. Burning dried sage leaves can also help keep insects away, especially during outdoor gatherings or barbecues.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)
Eucalyptus contains natural oils that act as a powerful fly repellent. The distinct menthol-like scent deters insects while providing a refreshing fragrance for outdoor spaces. It is commonly used in essential oils, sprays, and sachets to keep flies and mosquitoes at bay.
This fast-growing tree prefers full sun and well-drained soil. While some species can grow quite large, smaller varieties or potted eucalyptus plants are excellent choices for home gardens and patios. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and enhances its effectiveness as a natural insect deterrent.
For the best fly-repelling results, plant eucalyptus around outdoor living areas or place fresh leaves inside the house. Hanging eucalyptus branches near windows or entryways can further help prevent flies from entering your home.
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
Wormwood is a hardy perennial known for its strong, bitter scent that repels flies, fleas, and other insects. Traditionally used in herbal medicine, this plant is valued for its pest-control properties in gardens and homes.
This low-maintenance herb thrives in dry, well-drained soil and full sun. It is drought-resistant and can withstand harsh conditions, making it a great choice for xeriscaping and natural pest management. Due to its strong scent, wormwood is often planted along garden borders to deter unwanted insects.
To keep flies away, grow wormwood around outdoor seating areas, windows, and doorways. Dried wormwood leaves can also be placed indoors or in storage areas to provide long-lasting insect protection.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm emits a mild citrusy scent that is pleasant to humans but unappealing to flies. The plant contains natural compounds that help repel insects, making it a useful addition to gardens, patios, or windowsills. It is also commonly used in herbal teas and aromatherapy.
This herb thrives in partial sun and moist, well-drained soil. It spreads quickly and can become invasive if not controlled, so growing it in containers is recommended for easy maintenance. Regular pruning helps keep the plant healthy and maximizes its insect-repelling properties.
To use lemon balm as a fly deterrent, plant it near entryways or rub the leaves to release more of its aromatic oils. Crushed leaves can also be placed on tables or outdoor seating areas to help keep flies away.
Cucumber (Cucumis sativus)
Cucumber is not only a refreshing vegetable but also a natural fly repellent. The peel contains compounds that flies dislike, making it an effective way to deter them. Placing cucumber slices near windows, doorways, or food preparation areas can help reduce fly activity indoors.
This plant grows best in full sun with rich, well-drained soil. It requires regular watering and support structures, such as trellises, for optimal growth. In addition to its pest-repelling properties, cucumbers provide a valuable food source for home gardens.
For the best results, place fresh cucumber peels where flies tend to gather. Replacing them regularly ensures continued effectiveness. Growing cucumber plants near patios or garden areas can also contribute to a fly-free environment.
Pitcher Plant (Nepenthes spp.)
Pitcher plants are carnivorous plants that trap and digest flies, effectively reducing their population in the surrounding area. Their unique, tube-shaped leaves contain nectar that attracts insects, leading them into a slippery trap where they are unable to escape.
These tropical plants require high humidity, partial sunlight, and well-draining, nutrient-poor soil. They are typically grown in greenhouses or as indoor plants in controlled environments. Regular misting helps maintain the necessary humidity levels for healthy growth.
For natural fly control, place pitcher plants in areas where flies are common, such as near windows or outdoor seating spaces. Their insect-catching abilities make them an excellent choice for reducing fly populations naturally.
Butterwort (Pinguicula spp.)
Butterwort is another carnivorous plant that effectively traps and consumes flies. Its leaves are covered in a sticky substance that attracts small insects, preventing them from escaping. This natural mechanism helps reduce fly populations in humid areas.
Butterwort prefers bright, indirect light and thrives in nutrient-poor, well-drained soil. It requires high humidity, making it an ideal plant for greenhouses, terrariums, or damp environments where flies are a common problem.
Placing butterwort near windows or in kitchens can help catch unwanted flies. Since it passively traps insects, it is a low-maintenance option for natural fly control indoors or in garden spaces.
Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula)
The Venus flytrap is one of the most well-known carnivorous plants, capable of capturing and digesting flies. Its specialized leaves snap shut when triggered by an insect, effectively trapping it inside. This makes it an excellent natural solution for controlling fly populations.
This plant thrives in nutrient-poor, acidic soil with high humidity and bright, indirect light. It requires distilled water or rainwater to maintain proper soil conditions, as tap water can harm its delicate roots. Growing Venus flytraps in pots or terrariums ensures the right environment for their survival.
For best results, place Venus flytraps near windows, kitchen counters, or outdoor spaces where flies are common. While they require specific care, they provide an effective and fascinating way to control unwanted insects naturally.
Geranium (Pelargonium spp.)
Geraniums are popular ornamental plants that also serve as natural insect repellents. Their strong fragrance helps deter flies, mosquitoes, and other pests, making them a great addition to gardens and patios. Certain varieties, such as scented geraniums, are especially effective at repelling insects.
These plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them easy to grow in pots or flower beds. Regular pruning encourages continuous blooming and enhances their fly-repelling properties. Geraniums also add vibrant color to outdoor spaces, making them both functional and decorative.
To maximize their benefits, place potted geraniums near windows, doors, or outdoor seating areas. Their scent helps create a natural barrier against flies while adding beauty to your home or garden.
Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus)
Citronella grass is well known for its natural insect-repelling properties, as it contains citronella oil, a common ingredient in insect repellents. The plant’s strong lemony scent keeps flies and mosquitoes at bay, making it a valuable addition to outdoor areas.
This grass thrives in warm climates with full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It grows in clumps and can reach up to six feet in height, providing an effective natural barrier against insects. Citronella grass is often grown in pots or garden beds for convenience.
For the best fly-repelling results, plant citronella grass around patios, decks, or walkways. Crushing the leaves releases more of its essential oils, enhancing its effectiveness in deterring flies and other pests.
Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum)
Clove plants produce fragrant flower buds that act as a natural insect repellent. The strong, spicy scent of cloves helps deter flies and other pests, making them useful in both gardens and indoor settings.
This evergreen tree prefers warm climates, full sun, and well-drained soil. It requires consistent moisture for optimal growth and can take several years to produce its signature flower buds. In addition to repelling insects, cloves are widely used in cooking and medicine.
To keep flies away, place dried cloves around the home or insert them into citrus fruits like lemons or oranges. This method enhances the fragrance and increases its effectiveness in repelling flies naturally.
Rue (Ruta graveolens)
Rue is an aromatic herb known for its strong, pungent scent that flies find unpleasant. It has been traditionally used in gardens to deter a variety of pests, including flies, mosquitoes, and even cats.
This hardy plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it a convenient choice for pest control. However, its sap can cause skin irritation in some people, so handling it with care is recommended.
To use rue as a fly deterrent, plant it along garden borders or near doorways. Hanging dried rue indoors or placing fresh sprigs near windows can also help keep flies out of the home.
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Tomato plants are not only a great source of fresh produce but also effective at repelling flies. The strong scent of their leaves naturally deters many insects, including flies and mosquitoes, making them beneficial in gardens and outdoor spaces.
These plants grow best in full sun with nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. They require regular watering and support structures like stakes or cages to encourage healthy fruit production. In addition to deterring pests, tomatoes attract beneficial insects that help maintain a balanced ecosystem.
For maximum fly-repelling benefits, plant tomatoes near patios, walkways, or outdoor seating areas. Crushing the leaves releases more of their insect-repelling compounds, providing an extra layer of protection against flies.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme is a fragrant herb that acts as a natural fly and mosquito repellent. Its strong aroma contains compounds that insects find unappealing, making it a useful addition to gardens, patios, or kitchen windows. It is also a popular culinary herb, adding flavor to various dishes.
This hardy plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for rock gardens or container planting. Thyme spreads easily, creating a dense ground cover that helps keep pests at bay.
To enhance its insect-repelling effects, plant thyme near doorways, outdoor seating areas, or garden pathways. Crushing the leaves releases more of its natural oils, increasing its ability to deter flies.
Borage (Borago officinalis)
Borage is an attractive flowering herb that helps repel flies while attracting pollinators like bees. Its bright blue, star-shaped flowers make it a visually appealing addition to gardens, and it is often used as a companion plant to protect vegetables.
This plant grows best in full sun with well-drained soil. It is highly adaptable and self-seeds readily, allowing it to return year after year. Borage also improves soil quality by adding organic matter when it decomposes.
For the best fly-repelling effects, plant borage near vegetable gardens or outdoor living spaces. The flowers and leaves can also be used in herbal teas or salads, making it a multi-purpose plant.
Horsemint (Monarda punctata)
Horsemint, also known as spotted beebalm, has a strong citrusy scent similar to citronella, making it an effective fly and mosquito repellent. It is commonly grown in gardens to deter insects while attracting bees and butterflies.
This hardy perennial thrives in dry, sandy soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping or wildflower gardens. The plant produces showy pink or purple flowers that enhance garden aesthetics.
To keep flies away, plant horsemint around patios, picnic areas, or walkways. Rubbing the leaves releases more of its natural oils, enhancing its insect-repelling properties.
Anise (Pimpinella anisum)
Anise is a flavorful herb known for its licorice-like aroma, which flies find unpleasant. It has been traditionally used in gardens to deter insects while providing aromatic seeds for culinary and medicinal uses.
This annual herb prefers full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. It requires moderate watering and is best grown in herb gardens or raised beds. Anise plants produce delicate white flowers that attract beneficial pollinators.
To maximize its fly-repelling effects, plant anise near windows, doorways, or outdoor seating areas. Harvesting and drying its seeds allows for continued use in both pest control and cooking.
Cedar (Cedrus spp.)
Cedar trees and cedarwood oil are well known for their ability to repel flies, mosquitoes, and other pests. The natural compounds found in cedarwood create a strong scent that insects dislike, making it a popular choice for natural insect control.
Cedar trees thrive in full sun with well-drained soil. They are long-lived and provide excellent windbreaks, privacy screens, and shade in gardens. Additionally, cedar mulch and wood shavings are often used to deter insects in homes, pet bedding, and outdoor areas.
For effective fly control, plant cedar trees around the perimeter of your property or use cedar mulch in garden beds. Cedarwood oil can also be applied to wooden surfaces or diffused indoors to create a fly-free environment.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Oregano is a popular culinary herb that also serves as a natural fly repellent. Its strong, pungent aroma is unappealing to flies and other pests, making it a useful addition to gardens and kitchen windowsills.
This hardy perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and spreads easily, making it a low-maintenance choice for herb gardens. Oregano’s small purple flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
For optimal insect-repelling effects, plant oregano near outdoor dining areas, garden borders, or in pots on patios. Crushing the leaves releases more of its natural oils, increasing its ability to deter flies.
Mexican Marigold (Tagetes lucida)
Mexican marigold has a stronger fragrance than common marigolds, making it even more effective at repelling flies. The scent also deters mosquitoes and other unwanted insects, while the bright yellow flowers add beauty to any garden.
This sun-loving plant grows well in well-drained soil and is drought-resistant once established. It is often used as a companion plant to protect vegetables from pests. The leaves can also be used as an herbal tea with a mild anise flavor.
For best results, plant Mexican marigold along garden borders, near windows, or in outdoor seating areas. Regularly pruning the plant will encourage more blooms and maintain its insect-repelling properties.
Curry Plant (Helichrysum italicum)
The curry plant gets its name from its distinct curry-like scent, which flies find unpleasant. Though it is not used in cooking, its aromatic leaves make it an effective natural insect deterrent in gardens.
This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and well-drained, sandy soil. It produces small yellow flowers in summer, adding ornamental value to herb gardens. Its silver-gray foliage remains attractive year-round.
To maximize its fly-repelling benefits, plant the curry plant near patios, walkways, or vegetable gardens. Rubbing the leaves between your fingers releases more of its scent, enhancing its insect-deterring effects.
Pitcher Sage (Lepechinia spp.)
Pitcher sage emits a strong, pleasant fragrance that naturally repels flies and mosquitoes. It is a lesser-known plant with beautiful tubular flowers that attract pollinators while keeping pests away.
This plant grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is drought-resistant and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for xeriscaping or native plant gardens.
To use pitcher sage for fly control, plant it around outdoor living spaces, near garden pathways, or in large containers. Its aromatic leaves can also be crushed to release more scent for additional insect protection.
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
Also known as wild bee balm, wild bergamot is a dual-purpose plant that attracts bees while repelling flies and mosquitoes. Its minty, citrus-like fragrance confuses and deters many flying insects.
This hardy perennial grows best in full sun with well-drained soil. It is highly adaptable and spreads easily, making it an excellent choice for wildflower gardens and pollinator-friendly landscapes. Its pink to lavender flowers bloom in summer, adding vibrant color to the garden.
For best results, plant wild bergamot near patios, garden borders, or around outdoor dining areas. The leaves can be crushed or dried to release more scent, further enhancing its insect-repelling properties.
