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Planting natural repellents like lemongrass and marigold can help keep snakes away during the monsoon.
No more rainy-day surprises—use these snake-repelling plants to protect your home this monsoon!
As monsoon rains sweep across the country, it’s not just lush greenery that thrives—snakes too become more active, often slithering into homes and gardens in search of warmth or dry shelter. While professional pest control remains essential for serious infestations, nature has its own remedies. Certain plants are known to naturally repel snakes thanks to their strong odours or chemical compounds that irritate or confuse the reptiles.
Here are five plants you can grow around your home to help create a natural, snake-resistant barrier this monsoon:
1. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is not just a culinary favourite—it’s also an effective snake deterrent. Its sharp citrusy smell is known to repel snakes, as they dislike strong scents. It’s easy to grow, requires little maintenance, and doubles up as a mosquito repellent too.
2. Marigold
Marigolds are bright, beautiful, and have a pungent smell that’s off-putting to many pests, including snakes. Their roots also release a substance that can deter small rodents—another way to keep snakes away, as rodents are a primary food source for them.
“While no plant can guarantee complete snake prevention, certain species emit odours or create environments that snakes instinctively avoid,” says Dr. A.K. Singh, a botanist and plant-based pest control specialist. “Using these plants strategically, especially near entry points and moist areas, can reduce the chances of snake encounters during the monsoon.”
3. Garlic and Onion
These kitchen staples aren’t just good for cooking. Garlic and onion plants emit a strong sulphur-like smell that is offensive to snakes. Crushed garlic cloves or onion pieces scattered around entry points can also enhance protection.
4. Mother-in-Law’s Tongue (Snake Plant)
Despite the name, the sharp, upright leaves of this popular indoor plant act as a visual deterrent. Snakes prefer smooth pathways and tend to avoid spiky or rough plants, making this both a stylish and smart choice for indoors or near entryways.
5. Mugwort (Artemisia)
A lesser-known but highly effective snake repellent, mugwort contains compounds that snakes find unappealing. Planting it around fences or perimeters creates a natural barrier.
With just a bit of gardening know-how, you can make your home not only greener but also safer from unwelcome reptilian visitors this rainy season.

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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