The most annoying thing is having bugs around the home. So we have to ask ourselves how are we going to minimize these bugs without exposing ourselves to chemicals. Here are 10 plants that push back unwanted insects. There is evidence that these plants in a concentrated form can fight back the insects. There are not any studies that have determined the number of actual plants you would need. The essential oils of these plants have also been known to deter pests as well. if you have pests in the house put it in a spray bottle with vinegar and clean with it.
Citronella or Lemon Grass
Lemongrass contains citronella oil. The lemon is known to repel all sorts of insects but specifically mosquitoes. It also might repel cats. Citronella essential oil can be used in a DIY mosquito repellent. To ward off mosquitoes During outdoor bbq try burning a wick soaked in citronella oil. You can also use lemon thyme and lemon balm to keep insects at bay and in cooking. Catnip
Catnip repels ants, flea beetles, aphids, the Japanese beetle, squash bugs, weevil, the Colorado potato beetle, cabbage looper, and cockroaches. It works best when small amounts of the plant are placed in areas that pests have been seen. Indoors this would be especially appealing for cockroaches. You can also make a spray by simmering some of the plants in water and using the water to spray afterward.
Marigolds
To repel rabbits and insects use the Mexican Marigold
Lavender
Lavender grows best in sunny dry areas and it repels moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitoes.
Peppermint
Peppermint is excellent for repelling mosquitoes and is known as a great all around bug repellent. It is one of the most powerful plants that repel unwanted insects. It is used in organic commercial pest control or in mosquito repellents.
Basil
Basil can do multiple things. First, it repels flies and mosquitos and it can provide of a fresh basil all year long.