Ant Repellent Herbs

Tansy

• Tansy is a perennial plant that grows between 3 and 4 feet tall. It is most effective against sugar ants, so check the species of your invading ants. It can be planted by the door or dried and sprinkled throughout the home. It also will repel moths and attract ladybugs. Tansy is toxic to livestock, so it should not be planted near livestock grazing areas.

Mint

• Mint is an aromatic herb that can be used to repel ants from the home. Fresh or dried mint leaves can be scattered around the affected areas, or mint can be planted around the house. It is important to remember that mint is an herb that spreads very quickly and can choke out other plants. Spearmint, catmint and peppermint all work as ant repellents.

Pennyroyal

• The pennyroyal is a strong, pungent herb that deters a number of different pests. Not only does it repel ants, it also keeps away aphids, ticks, cabbage maggots and fleas. Pennyroyal can be planted around the home, or in the garden, where it is a useful companion plant for broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts.

Sage

• Dried leaves of sage can be placed around your home. Not only does sage have a pleasant smell, it can prevent ants from entering your home at all. Growing sage near the door or around the foundations of the house also can prevent ants from getting in. Sage also can be used as an herb for flavoring food.