The 6 Best Plants That Keep All the Mice Away
Mice are unwelcome guests in any garden, nibbling on plants, and potentially invading your home. Fortunately, certain plants can help deter these rodents naturally. Here are six of the best plants known to keep mice at bay:
1. Peppermint (Mentha piperita): Mice are not fans of the strong, minty aroma of peppermint. Planting peppermint around the perimeter of your garden or home can act as a natural deterrent. Additionally, peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls can be placed in areas where mice are a problem.
2. Lavender (Lavandula): Lavender’s potent fragrance is soothing to humans but repelling to mice. This beautiful purple-flowered plant can be grown in the garden or in pots near entry points to keep mice away.
3. Alliums (Allium spp.): The allium family, which includes onions, garlic, and chives, emits a smell that is offensive to mice. Planting these can protect neighboring plants from being eaten by rodents and can help safeguard your home as well.
4. Catnip (Nepeta cataria): Ironically, the plant that attracts cats can repel mice. Cats are natural predators of mice, so planting catnip may indirectly help keep the mouse population in check.
5. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.): Marigolds have a distinctive smell that mice dislike. Planting marigolds around your garden not only adds color and beauty but also creates a barrier against these pests.
6. Ammonia-Scented Plants (like crown imperial): Plants like the crown imperial release a scent similar to ammonia, which mice tend to avoid. Planting them in strategic locations can prevent mice from settling in.
Tips for Using Plants to Deter Mice:
- Plant these deterrents along the borders of your property.
- Maintain the plants well, as overgrown areas can provide shelter for mice.
- Combine these plants with other methods of pest control for the best results.
By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can create a natural and fragrant defense against mice. Not only will your garden be free of rodents, but it will also be full of vibrant colors and delightful scents.
