Kinds of Plants That Have No Pests

Aromatic Plants

• Plants that produce a strong odor generally repel insects, deer and rabbits. In the vegetable garden, onions, chives, dill, basil and thyme are rarely bothered. Plant marigolds and nasturtiums throughout the garden, as well. Marigolds release compounds that deter nematodes and they also have a spicy, slightly unpleasant odor that may deter pests. Plant catmint and lavender in a perennial bed to ward off pests.

Leaf Texture

• Deer and rabbits generally prefer plants with tender, succulent leaves. Plants with coarse, thick or fuzzy leaves are less appealing. Thick-leaved succulents, such as sedum, are a good choice, as well as fuzzy plants such as licorice plant and lamb's ear.

Thorned Plants

• Thorns and prickles don't always deter pests, as in the case of roses, which are loved by insects and deer alike. Combined with other attributes, though, thorns may reduce damage. Barberry, Oregon grape holly, quince and yucca plants are rarely bothered by insects or deer.

Durability

• Many native plants, and some non-natives, are resistant to insect and other pest infestations. These plants are usually low-maintenance as well, tolerating poor soil, drought and neglect. Try daylily, butterfly weed, hardy geranium, potentilla, blue mist spirea, Russian sage, salvia and Jupiter's beard.