Four spider-repellant plants that look gorgeous and will ward off pesky critters

28 September 2023 , 17:30

1123     0

It's spider season - so it's time to get the house defences up (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

October is a huge month for spiders in the UK - and it's not good news for arachnophobes. As autumn arrives and the temperatures start to plunge, eight-legged critters scurry into our warm and cosy homes so they can mate.

While it might be nice for them, it's not so pleasant for those who don't appreciate spiders taking up residency in their homes. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to keep them at bay - and while some of them require some effort, like rubbing lemon peel over windowsills, others are really simple.

Luckily, experts at Tiger Sheds has said the key to keeping spiders out of your indoor spaces is having four gorgeous-looking plants on display. All you have to do is put them in strategic places - and enjoy a spider-free zone.

Lavender smells amazing - but spiders don't think so (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

According to them, there are a certain number of plants that spiders don't like - and the main ones are peppermint, lavender, basil and citronella. Garden building expert Sam Jenkinson said: "Plant these around your garden to ward off any spiders from both your garden buildings and the home itself."

The good news is, all these are beautiful plants which smell amazing to us humans - but spiders stay away from them. So, try putting them where you think spiders are likely to be lurking.

'I don't want children staying up late at weekends - I really need adult time'

According to Sam, there are also other natural repellents you can try, and these are also smells that spiders don't like. He said: "Spiders dislike the smell of peppermint, citrus, and vinegar. You can use these natural repellents to deter spiders from your living spaces and outdoor garden buildings.

Basil plants should do the trick (Getty Images/Westend61)

"To make a peppermint spray, mix 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture around your home, paying special attention to windowsills, doorways, and other areas where spiders might enter. You can also rub citrus peels or place cotton balls dipped in vinegar around your home for a similar effect."

Also, make it harder for them to enter your home by sealing up cracks and entry points. Sam said: "Spiders can squeeze through tiny cracks and openings, so it's important to seal them up. Pay special attention to windows, doors, and vents. You can use caulk or sealant to seal up any cracks or gaps where necessary."

Ariane Sohrabi-Shiraz