Which plants repel mice? - briefly
Peppermint, lavender, rosemary, and eucalyptus release aromatic compounds that discourage rodent intrusion. Planting these herbs near entry points, garden beds, or storage zones helps keep mice away.
Which plants repel mice? - in detail
Plants that deter rodents exhibit strong aromatic compounds, bitter taste, or irritant oils that mice find unpalatable. Research and horticultural practice identify several species with proven repellent properties.
• «Peppermint» (Mentha piperita) releases menthol and pulegone, volatile oils that interfere with mouse olfactory receptors. Planting dense patches near entry points or using dried leaves in enclosed spaces reduces activity.
• «Lavender» (Lavandula angustifolia) produces linalool and camphor, scent components that discourage foraging. Regular pruning maintains leaf surface area, enhancing emission of repellent volatiles.
• «Pennyroyal» (Mentha citrata) contains pulegone at concentrations toxic to rodents. Soil‑bound cultivation limits spread, while crushed foliage can be scattered around foundations.
• «Eucalyptus» (Eucalyptus globulus) emits eucalyptol, a compound that irritates mouse respiratory pathways. Young trees or potted specimens near cracks create a barrier of scent.
• «Rosemary» (Rosmarinus officinalis) produces cineole and camphor, both deterrents. Evergreen foliage allows year‑round protection when planted in borders.
• «Marigold» (Tagetes erecta) synthesizes thiophenes and pyrethrins, chemicals that repel a range of insects and also affect rodents. Annual planting along garden beds adds a visual and chemical deterrent.
• «Catnip» (Nepeta cataria) contains nepetalactone, which repels mice while attracting felines. Controlled application prevents cat attraction in indoor settings.
Effective use of these plants involves strategic placement: around foundation walls, near utility openings, and along pathways leading to food sources. Maintaining healthy growth through appropriate watering, fertilization, and pruning ensures continuous release of repellent compounds. Combining multiple species creates a synergistic effect, as overlapping scent profiles broaden the range of deterrence. Regular monitoring of mouse activity confirms efficacy and guides adjustments to planting density or species selection.