Spring is here, and many families are looking for safe, natural ways to keep bugs out of the garden. Thankfully, certain plants do double duty – they beautify your yard and help chase off pests without harsh chemicals. The plants below are non-toxic, making them safe for children and pets. From herbs that send mosquitoes flying to flowers that deter aphids and beetles, these kid- and pet-friendly plants can help protect your garden the natural way. Plant a few of these around your home for a greener, bug-fighting boost this season.
1. Basil
Basil’s strong scent helps repel mosquitoes and flies, keeping your garden more comfortable. It's totally safe for kids and pets, making it a great choice for family yards. This herb thrives in sunny spots with moist, well-drained soil. Basil can be grown in garden beds or containers, offering flexibility for different garden sizes. Regularly pinch back the leaves to encourage bushy growth and more flavor. It pairs well with tomatoes and acts as a helpful companion plant.
2. Rosemary
This hardy herb smells amazing and naturally repels mosquitoes, beetles, and moths. Rosemary is safe around children and pets, making it a worry-free addition to any garden. It loves full sun and performs best in drier soil with good drainage. You can grow it in pots or directly in the ground, and it can be shaped into decorative hedges. It’s a perennial in warmer climates and an annual elsewhere. Its needle-like leaves can be harvested year-round in mild regions.
3. Sage
Sage's earthy smell and textured leaves scare off cabbage moths and carrot flies. It’s a drought-tolerant plant that grows well in sunny, well-drained spots. Sage is safe for all, including children and pets, and it brings color and texture to the garden. Its soft, silvery leaves pair beautifully with purple blooms in late spring. Besides pest control, it’s a flavorful addition to meat dishes and teas. Gardeners often burn a bit of dried sage to repel mosquitoes from patios.
4. Mint
Mint sends aphids, ants, and mosquitoes packing with its refreshing scent. This herb spreads quickly, so it’s best grown in containers to avoid overtaking other plants. Mint is safe for children and pets and offers a fun sensory experience for young gardeners. It prefers moist soil and partial to full sunlight. The leaves can be used in teas, desserts, and even as a garnish. Crushing a leaf between your fingers releases its oils for instant pest relief. Grow varieties like spearmint or peppermint, depending on your flavor preference.
5. Lemon Balm
This cheerful herb smells like lemon and naturally keeps mosquitoes away. It's non-toxic and completely safe for pets, making it an excellent family-friendly option. Lemon balm is easy to grow and does well in part shade with moist, rich soil. It spreads like mint, so consider using containers if space is limited. The leaves can be brewed into a calming tea with light citrus notes. Brush against the plant to release its scent and deter pests from gathering.
6. Catnip
Catnip is loved by cats but loathed by mosquitoes, making it a dual-purpose plant. The active compound nepetalactone is highly effective at repelling biting bugs. It is safe for kids and dogs, adding peace of mind to your garden plan. Catnip grows best in sunny spots with well-draining soil and minimal fuss. It’s a member of the mint family, so it shares the same spreading habits. Some gardeners use it in borders or near seating areas for mosquito control.
7. Thyme
Thyme deters whiteflies, cabbage worms, and flies with its strong aroma. It’s a low-growing herb that doubles as a ground cover or edging plant. Safe for little hands and paws, thyme is a practical and decorative addition. It prefers full sun and sandy, well-drained soil, thriving in dry conditions. Creeping thyme releases scent when walked on, adding bonus pest control. It’s a low-maintenance herb and the leaves that can be used fresh or dried in cooking.
8. Dill
Dill attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs while repelling tomato hornworms and aphids. Its feathery fronds and tall, yellow flowers add height and beauty to any garden. Dill is safe for kids and pets and grows easily from seed. Plant it in sunny spots with light soil, near veggies like tomatoes and cabbage. It is a trap crop, drawing pests away from your main harvest. Let some dill go to seed to encourage natural reseeding each year.
9. Oregano
Oregano’s pungent scent confuses pests like beetles and flies, deterring them from feeding. This robust herb is easy to grow and thrives in full sun with minimal watering. Safe for pets and children, oregano spreads as a low, leafy mat. It works well as a companion plant, especially for vegetables. Oregano is drought-tolerant and ideal for rock gardens or dry corners. Harvest the leaves for cooking, or let them flower to attract pollinators. It also discourages deer, making it a useful all-around plant.
10. Marigold
These bright flowers release a scent that repels aphids, mosquitoes, and even rabbits. Marigolds are low-maintenance annuals that bloom all season long in sunny spots. Their roots secrete substances that help reduce soil-borne nematodes. These flowers are safe for kids and pets, though they may cause minor stomach upset if eaten. Marigolds make great border plants for vegetable gardens. Their bold colors add cheer while also providing real protection. They’re a gardener’s best friend regarding natural pest control.
11. Calendula
Calendula’s sticky resin catches pests like beetles and hornworms, acting as a natural bug trap. The petals are edible and often added to salads or used as a natural dye. It’s a safe choice for children and pets, even if curious hands reach out. Calendula thrives in full sun and rich soil with moderate watering. Its golden blooms last from spring through fall, adding ongoing beauty. Gardeners often plant it near vegetables to draw pests away.
12. Nasturtium
Nasturtiums repel whiteflies, squash bugs, aphids, and many beetles with airborne signals. These cheerful flowers are edible and have a spicy, peppery taste. They are safe for kids and pets and thrive in poor soil with full sun. Nasturtiums are often planted around vegetables as a protective ring. They bloom in bright shades of orange, red, and yellow. Their leaves and flowers attract pollinators while deterring harmful bugs. This makes them both beautiful and practical for garden borders.
13. Petunia
Petunias repel aphids, hornworms, and squash bugs while trapping some insects on their sticky stems. These vibrant flowers are safe for pets and children, making them ideal for family gardens. Petunias thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil. They’re perfect for hanging baskets, containers, and garden beds. Their blooms last from spring through early fall with regular deadheading. While colorful and cheerful, they’re also hard at work protecting your plants.
14. Bee Balm
Bee Balm attracts bees and butterflies but keeps mosquitoes far away with its strong fragrance. This perennial flower is safe for kids and pets; its leaves are even used in teas. Bee Balm loves full sun but can also tolerate part shade. It adds height and bold color to garden beds. Its spicy, minty scent helps mask nearby plants from biting pests. It also supports a healthy ecosystem by inviting pollinators. Plant it near patios or decks for a burst of beauty and natural bug control.
15. Beautyberry
This native shrub produces purple berries and contains oils that repel mosquitoes and ticks. Its leaves release compounds that ward off biting pests when crushed. Safe for kids and pets, Beautyberry is also a food source for birds. It thrives in partial shade to full sun with average moisture. Beautyberry can grow several feet tall and wide, so give it space. It’s an excellent choice for naturalizing or adding structure to a yard. Its stunning fall color and bug-fighting qualities make it a standout shrub.
16. Lavender
Lavender repels flies, moths, and mosquitoes with its calming fragrance. It prefers full sun and well-drained slightly dry soil. Lavender is generally safe for pets and kids, though it may cause tummy upset if eaten in large amounts. It produces long-lasting purple blooms that attract pollinators. Dried lavender can be used in sachets, teas, and bath products. The plant adds elegance to pathways, borders, or pots. Its dual role as a beauty and bug-repeller makes it a garden must-have.
17. Borage
Borage’s star-shaped blue flowers repel tomato hornworms and cabbage worms. The entire plant is edible, with a mild cucumber flavor in its leaves and flowers. Borage attracts bees and helps protect nearby vegetables. It grows well in full sun and average soil and reseeds itself easily. This herb is safe for children and pets and adds whimsy to any bed. Its bold leaves and blooms add contrast to garden textures.
18. Cilantro
Cilantro's strong aroma repels potato beetles and aphids. It grows best in cool weather and partial to full sun. It is completely safe for kids and pets and is widely used in cooking. Allowing it to flower attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and doesn’t like heat. Use its leaves for salsa or let it go to seed for coriander.
19. Fennel
Fennel is a fragrant herb that helps repel aphids, slugs, and snails, making it a protective presence in your garden. It’s completely safe for kids and pets and grows easily in full sun with well-drained soil. Fennel also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies that feed on harmful bugs. Its tall, feathery fronds and yellow flowers add beauty and structure. You can plant it near vegetables, though it grows best away from other herbs.
20. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a natural mosquito repellent thanks to its high citronella content. This tall, grassy plant thrives in full sun and warm temperatures. It’s safe for pets and children and adds a citrusy scent to your yard. Lemongrass also deters whiteflies and some types of beetles. It grows well in pots or in the ground, and its stalks are used in cooking. The plant’s thick growth makes it a great privacy screen, making your garden feel fresh and bug-free.
21. Parsley
Parsley is more than just a garnish – it helps deter asparagus beetles and attracts helpful hoverflies. It’s entirely safe for children and pets and thrives in full to partial sun. This herb can easily grow in containers or garden beds with moist, rich soil. Letting parsley bloom encourages beneficial insects to stick around. It’s a compact plant that won’t take over your garden space. The edible leaves are packed with nutrients and add flavor to countless dishes.
22. Chives
Chives are part of the onion family and naturally deter aphids, mites, and Japanese beetles. Their tall, hollow leaves and purple flowers make them an attractive addition. Chives are safe for kids and pets and easy to grow in containers or beds. They like full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Regular harvesting helps them thrive, and their mild onion flavor is great in the kitchen. When in bloom, they also attract pollinators.
23. Bay Laurel
Bay Laurel produces aromatic leaves that deter flies, moths, and other insects. This evergreen shrub is safe for children and pets when not consumed in large amounts. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Bay grows well in containers and can be trimmed into a tidy shape. The leaves can be dried and used in soups and stews. Its glossy foliage adds year-round appeal to garden spaces.
A Garden That Fights Back—Naturally!
These plants do more than look good—they help protect your garden naturally from common pests while being safe for your whole family. Mix them in with your veggies or flower beds and enjoy a bug-reduced, beautiful spring garden. These easy-to-grow plants offer color, scent, and flavor while providing pest control. Choosing natural pest-fighters helps support pollinators and the environment. Embrace their power and enjoy the rewards of a healthier, happier outdoor space!