If you’ve lived in East Tennessee for more than five minutes… you already know:
👉 Life outdoors is a big part of living in East Tennessee
👉 With all the greenery and water, nature stays active year-round
👉 And when the weather warms up… everything comes to life (including a few uninvited, “buggy” guests 😉)
But here’s the good news…
You don’t need to drench your yard in chemicals to take control.
Nature actually gives you some really effective ways to keep pests away—while making your property look (and smell) amazing.
Let’s talk about the best plants, herbs, and simple tricks that actually work around your home—especially for lakefront and wooded properties 👇
🌱 Plants That Do the Work for You
🌿 Lavender
Not only does it smell incredible, but bugs hate it.
Repels: Mosquitoes, flies, moths
Best spots: Near patios, entryways, windows
👉 Bonus: It thrives in Tennessee summers and looks great lining walkways.
🌿 Citronella (aka Mosquito’s Worst Enemy)
Yes—the same scent in candles comes from this plant.
Repels: Mosquitoes
Best spots: Decks, docks, outdoor seating areas
👉 Perfect for lake homes where the evening bugs start showing up right at sunset.
⚠️ Pet Tip: Citronella can be toxic to dogs and cats if ingested (and even the oils can irritate their skin).
If you’ve got pets that like to chew on plants or lounge in your landscaping, it’s best to:
- Keep citronella in raised pots or out-of-reach areas
- Or swap in safer options like lavender or basil near pet zones
🌿 Basil
You’ll use it in the kitchen… and it quietly protects your space.
Repels: Flies, mosquitoes
Best spots: Near doors, grill areas, kitchen windows
👉 Fresh caprese + fewer bugs = win.
🌿 Mint
This one is strong—bugs hate it.
Repels: Ants, spiders, mosquitoes
Best spots: Around foundations, patios
⚠️ Pro tip: Plant it in containers unless you want mint taking over your entire yard (it will 😂)
🌿 Marigolds
These are underrated little powerhouses.
Repels: Mosquitoes, aphids, even some critters
Best spots: Garden beds, borders, around decks
👉 They’re bright, low-maintenance, and actually do something.
🏡 Smart Placement = Better Results
You don’t need a jungle of plants—just a little strategy:
- Entry points: Front door, garage, back door
- Hangout zones: Patios, decks, docks
- Windows: Especially ones you open often
Think of it like creating a natural “bug barrier” around the places you actually use.
🧴 Easy DIY Natural Repellent (That Actually Works)
If you want a quick spray for patios or outdoor furniture:
Mix this:
- Water
- A few drops of essential oils (peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus)
- Splash of witch hazel or vinegar
Spray around seating areas, railings, and door frames.
👉 It won’t last forever—but it’s great before guests come over or for evening lake hangs.
🔥 A Few Extra Tricks (That Make a Big Difference)
- Standing water = mosquito factory
Dump buckets, trays, and anything collecting water - Keep grass trimmed
Ticks and bugs love overgrown areas - Use fans on patios
Sounds simple—but mosquitoes are weak flyers - Mulch wisely
Too much = bug hotel
🌊 Why This Matters More for Lake Homes
If you’re around Tellico, Watts Bar, or any of our East Tennessee lakes…
You’ve got:
- More moisture
- More shade
- More bug activity (especially evenings)
That doesn’t mean you have to deal with it—it just means you need to be a little more intentional.
And honestly?
These natural options fit the whole lake lifestyle better anyway.
🌅 Final Thought
Your home should draw you outside to relax—not have you thinking twice before stepping out.
With the right mix of plants and a little strategy…
👉 You can actually enjoy your porch, your dock, and your evenings again.
Without turning your yard into a chemical experiment.
Posted by: Oceana Richards – Lakefront Living Realty