Love or hate them, there are many good reasons to want to keep snakes out of your yard. Whether you have pets, small children running around, or just a large distaste for anything that slithers, keeping snakes and other pests from your backyard is completely understandable.
Thankfully, there are certain things you can plant that repel snakes from choosing your yard as a favourable place to reside.
8 snake repellent plants
1. Marigold
These vibrant and cheerful flowers not only add a splash of colour to your garden but also serve as a natural defence against unwanted pests. Snakes hate strong smells like sulphur. This is why the marigold works so well to deter them, thanks to their well-known strong scent.
2. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is another strongly scented plant that looks pretty in your garden and is known to ward off our scaly friends.
3. Lavender
The jury is out on this one. While some have promoted them as snake repellents, it's important to note that snakes tend to be more wary of humans than they are of the scent of lavender. Furthermore, since lavender bushes can be relatively low-growing, they might inadvertently offer hiding spots for snakes. Nevertheless, the presence of lavender bushes in your yard can contribute to the deterrence of rodents, which, in turn, can help reduce the overall snake population in your vicinity.
4. Garlic and onions
Garlic and onions serve a dual purpose in repelling pests. When planted in your yard, they act as a natural deterrent, thanks to their sulfonic acid content. You can also create an effective mixture for sprinkling around your yard by finely chopping garlic and onions and blending them with rock salt.
5. Mother-in-law's tongue
While other plants emit a smell or toxin that serves to repel the pesky reptiles, the sansevieria or mother-in-law’s tongue is a succulent plant that keeps the snakes away thanks to its sharp and pointy leaves.
6. Pink agapanthus
Agapanthus are another flower that looks great in your garden but will potentially ward off pests thanks to its pungent scent. Whilst they have a gorgeous flower, they are a member of the onion family.
7. Wormwood
Sounding like something out of Harry Potter, wormwood is a tall growing weed with woody roots. The feathery foliage produces a strong scent that has the effect of repelling snakes. It’s easy to grow and can become invasive, so if you choose this one, be wary.
8. Basil and sage
Much like onions and garlic, these fragrant herbs will also provide a strong odour that will help to deter snakes whilst also providing a useful addition to your cooking.
Be warned, while these plants might help, they may not provide foolproof protection. Always be cautious around snakes and consult experts for additional advice.
You might also like:
What to do if you find a pet snake in your house
What is the best snake repellent in Australia?
Garden tools
Spear & Jackson garden spade with green handle, $45.15, Amazon
Electric pruning shears, $127, Amazon
