At Vinx Pest Control, we know spiders are beneficial to the environment, but that doesn’t mean you want them in your home, patio, or backyard. Instead of resorting to chemical sprays, why not try a natural, plant-based approach to keeping spiders away?
Certain indoor and outdoor plants release scents that disrupt a spider’s senses, making your home less inviting to these eight-legged visitors. Placing these plants in key locations—like near doors, windows, and patios—can serve as a natural deterrent.
Why Do Some Plants Repel Spiders?
Spiders primarily use their fine sensory hairs to detect environmental changes, including strong smells. While we might enjoy the fragrance of herbs and flowers, spiders often find these scents overpowering and avoid areas where these plants grow.
Placing these plants strategically around entry points, patios, and gardens creates an effective barrier against spiders—without the need for harmful chemicals.
Top 14 Plants That Naturally Repel Spiders
1. Lavender – The Ultimate Spider Repellent
If you only choose one plant to repel spiders, lavender is the top contender. The strong floral scent overwhelms spiders’ senses, making them steer clear of areas where lavender is planted.
- Best for: Indoor pots near windows, outdoor patios, garden borders
- Growing tip: Requires full sunlight and well-draining soil
- Bonus: Also repels mosquitoes, moths, and ants
Try planting lavender near doors and patios or using dried lavender satchels indoors for an extra layer of protection.
2. Peppermint – A Fresh-Smelling Spider Deterrent
Peppermint is one of the strongest-smelling herbs, making it a powerful spider repellent. The menthol in peppermint overwhelms spiders, keeping them away.
- Best for: Indoor and outdoor containers
- Growing tip: Grows aggressively—keep it contained in pots
- Bonus: Repels ants, flies, and roaches
For added protection, make a DIY peppermint spray by mixing peppermint oil with water and spraying around windowsills and doorways.
3. Basil – A Kitchen Herb That Keeps Spiders Away
Basil is an easy-to-grow kitchen herb that doubles as a natural spider repellent.
- Best for: Kitchen windows, patio planters, and garden beds
- Growing tip: Requires moist soil and regular watering
- Bonus: Keeps flies and mosquitoes away too
Basil leaves can also be dried and crushed to make a homemade spider-repellent powder for baseboards and corners.
4. Rosemary – A Versatile Herb with Spider-Repelling Powers
Rosemary is a hardy herb that thrives in containers and emits a woody aroma that spiders dislike.
- Best for: Window boxes, patios, and kitchen counters
- Growing tip: Needs full sunlight and minimal watering
- Bonus: Also keeps moths, beetles, and fleas away
Since rosemary grows well in pots, you can easily move it to high-risk spider areas as needed.
5. Lemon Balm – The Citrus Scent Spiders Hate
Lemon balm has a strong citrus fragrance that acts as a natural deterrent for spiders.
- Best for: Indoor and outdoor planting
- Growing tip: Prefers partial shade and moist soil
- Bonus: Attracts pollinators like bees
For extra protection, rub lemon balm leaves on windowsills and door frames.
6. Chrysanthemums – A Natural Pest Control Powerhouse
Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins, a natural insecticide that repels spiders and other bugs.
- Best for: Entryways, patios, and garden borders
- Growing tip: Prefers full sun and regular watering
- Bonus: Repels roaches, ticks, and ants
Place potted mums around doorways for a decorative yet effective spider deterrent.
7. Citronella Grass – A Spider & Mosquito Repellent
While best known for repelling mosquitoes, citronella grass also deters spiders.
- Best for: Outdoor gardens and patio areas
- Growing tip: Needs partial sun and moist soil
- Bonus: Naturally repels flies and gnats
Citronella grass works best when planted around seating areas to keep pests away.
Additional Tips to Keep Spiders Away
Besides growing spider-repellent plants, try these Vinx-approved strategies:
1. Eliminate Clutter & Webbing Areas
Spiders hide in dark, undisturbed spaces. Regularly clean basements, attics, and closets to reduce spider populations.
2. Seal Entry Points
Block cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations to prevent spiders from sneaking in.
3. Reduce Outdoor Lighting
Bright lights attract insects, which in turn attract spiders. Use yellow bug lights or motion-sensor lighting instead.
4. Make a DIY Spider Repellent Spray
Mix peppermint oil, vinegar, and water into a natural spider-repelling spray. Apply it to window sills, baseboards, and doorways.
For a step-by-step guide, check out How to Keep Spiders Out of Your Home.
Conclusion: The Best Plants to Keep Spiders Away
Using spider-repellent plants is a simple, natural, and effective way to keep spiders away from your home and garden.
- Lavender, peppermint, basil, rosemary, and lemon balm work best for indoor use.
- Chrysanthemums, citronella grass, and marigolds are great for outdoor pest control.
- When combined with proper home maintenance, these plants significantly reduce spider activity.
For more expert pest prevention tips, visit Vinx Pest Control.