Repel Flies With Plants That You Grow

This winter, the flies are truly thick here in Texas! They are constantly getting inside the house so I decided to do some research to see how they can be stopped.

One easy solution I found is to plant some seeds right in your garden that will grow into beautiful and fly-repelling plants. Lavender, for instance, is not only lovely to look at, but its scent is highly disliked by flies. Plus, who doesn't enjoy the calming fragrance of lavender wafting through the yard?

Here in Texas, I have a hard time keeping lavender alive. I had six varieties growing this past spring and by summer, they were all dead. If you live in a cooler climate, certainly, use lavender.

Another great plant is basil. This herb is versatile for cooking and has a strong aroma that flies find unappealing. Growing basil in pots near your door can act as an effective fly deterrent. I grow a lot of basil and it does fine in the summer and even better when it cools down some.

Lemongrass is your friend if you want something with a citrusy scent. Not only does it look great, but it's one of the plants that repel flies. Its fresh scent is inviting for us humans, but drives flies away.

Marigolds are known for their ability to keep a variety of pests at bay, including flies. Planting them in window boxes or in pots around your deck can be a colorful and natural fly-repelling option.

Mint is a plant that's great at keeping flies away. While its fresh scent is lovely for us, it serves as a natural repellent for flies. It's quite easy to grow, too, making it a convenient choice for home gardeners. I grow a lot of mint here and it is great added to iced tea, a Texas favorite.

Nasturtiums aren’t just eye-catching; they’re plants that repel flies. With their bold, bright flowers, they can add a splash of color to your porch or garden while keeping flies at a distance.

Pennyroyal is another plant you might consider. It belongs to the mint family and it has a history of use as a natural insect repellent. However, it’s wise to handle this plant with care as it can be toxic to pets if swallowed.

Now, about positioning these plants, a neat trick is to place them in pots right by the entrance of your home. This way, they can work their magic every time you open the door.

Consider adding a herb garden near entry points. Not only is it practical, but it’s also an effective way to repel flies naturally. Plus, you’ll have fresh herbs on hand for your kitchen.

Essential oils are a major player in the battle against flies. Having small bottles of essential oils that repel flies can work wonders. They are even better when you've grown the plants and pressed the oil yourself.

Peppermint oil, for example, is quite potent when it comes to keeping flies away. Simply place a few drops on cotton balls and place them strategically around your porch.

Eucalyptus is known for its multiple health benefits, it repels flies! A few drops of eucalyptus essential oil in a diffuser can enhance your indoor air and keep flies at bay.

Citronella oil is also worth mentioning. This pungent oil is often used to ward off mosquitoes, but it works equally well against flies.

Want a citrus twist? Lemon essential oil not only leaves a refreshing scent but has a high level of deterrence against flies.

You can also make your homemade fly-repelling spray. Mix water, a little dish soap, and about 10 to 15 drops of any of the above-mentioned essential oils into a spray bottle.

Spray this mixture lightly around the entryways leading to your home, and you’ve got an effective and natural fly repellent.

If you prefer, essential oils can also be blended. Try combining peppermint and citronella oils for a stronger repellent.

Different plants will thrive under different conditions, so it’s important to consider your climate when choosing which to plant.