Snakes, though beneficial for controlling pests, are not always welcome visitors in gardens or homes. Certain plants can either attract snakes, while others can help keep them at bay. If you’re looking to create a snake-free environment, understanding which plants are snake-attracting and which are snake-repelling is key. Here’s a list of both types:
6 Plants That Attract Snakes:
Creeping Thyme Creeping thyme is a fragrant ground cover that snakes find ideal for hiding. Its dense, low-growing nature creates excellent shelter for snakes looking for a cool, protected spot.
Jasmine Jasmine, especially the star jasmine variety, is often used as a ground cover or vine in gardens. While it adds beauty with its fragrant flowers, its dense foliage can attract snakes seeking cover.
Mugwort Mugwort, often considered a medicinal herb, has a strong smell that might seem unappealing to humans, but snakes are drawn to the plant’s ability to provide both shelter and food sources like rodents.
Wisteria Known for its beautiful cascading flowers, wisteria vines provide ample cover and hiding spots for snakes. Their tendrils create a labyrinth-like environment, which snakes can use to stay hidden from predators.
Mint While mint is commonly used in cooking and for its refreshing scent, it also attracts snakes. The dense growth of mint can provide snakes with plenty of hiding spaces, especially if the plant is left to grow wild.
Morning Glory Morning glories, especially when they are allowed to climb, can create dense patches of foliage that offer snakes shelter. These vines also attract insects, which in turn attract snakes looking for food.
4 Plants That Keep Snakes Away:
Marigolds The strong scent of marigolds is known to repel many pests, including snakes. Planting marigolds around the garden can help create a barrier that snakes avoid due to their dislike of the scent.
Garlic The pungent odor of garlic can be highly effective in keeping snakes at bay. Snakes dislike strong smells, and garlic’s intense aroma is known to deter them from coming too close to the area.
Onions Much like garlic, onions contain sulfur compounds that emit a strong smell snakes find repellent. Planting onions around your garden can act as a natural deterrent.
Lavender While lavender is beloved by many for its soothing aroma, snakes tend to avoid areas where this plant grows. The smell of lavender is unpleasant for many pests, including snakes, making it an excellent choice for keeping them away from your home.
Conclusion
Whether you’re aiming to attract beneficial wildlife to your garden or keep unwanted visitors like snakes away, choosing the right plants can make a significant difference. If you prefer a snake-free garden, opt for plants like marigolds, garlic, onions, and lavender. On the other hand, if you’re not concerned about snakes and want to create a natural habitat for them, consider planting species like creeping thyme, jasmine, mugwort, wisteria, mint, and morning glory.
Remember, while plants can influence the presence of snakes, proper care and maintenance of your garden, such as clearing debris and avoiding tall grass, are essential to keep snakes away as well.