With its calming green tones and clean, minimalist look, eucalyptus has become a favorite in modern home decor. But its appeal goes far beyond aesthetics—experts say this versatile plant can also help keep bugs out of your home, which is perfect timing as warmer weather brings insects indoors.
As temperatures rise, pests emerge from hibernation and multiply quickly through the summer. If you're after a natural, chemical-free way to repel them, eucalyptus might be one of the smartest indoor plants to have around.
Why eucalyptus works against insects
Garden expert Jeremy Yamaguchi of Lawn Love explains that insects are put off by eucalyptus' strong aroma. For the strongest effect, he recommends using pure eucalyptus oil, like this one from Amazon, which you can easily spread around your home.
“Pests are alarmed by strong smells, and eucalyptus is typically not a scent native to most areas, so its unfamiliarity combined with its strength makes bugs see it as a threat,” Jeremy says.
That said, even the best natural repellent won't work if bugs can just walk through gaps in your walls or windows. Seal up cracks and holes first, then focus your eucalyptus application near those entry points for maximum effect.
One caution: eucalyptus oil can be toxic to pets, so use it carefully if you have dogs or cats.
How to use eucalyptus to keep bugs out
As Jeremy suggests, eucalyptus oil is a great option for summer pest control, but you can also add eucalyptus plants to your indoor or outdoor garden ideas. Here are three simple ways to put it to work.
1. Use eucalyptus oil in a diffuser
Lindsey Hyland, gardening expert and founder of Urban Organic Yield, recommends filling a diffuser with eucalyptus oil. The aroma “helps repel insects and keeps them away from your home,” she says.
2. Make a homemade spray
Mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with water in a spray bottle to create a homemade bug spray. Spray it around windowsills, door frames, and other spots where pests tend to sneak in.
3. Invest in eucalyptus trees
Eucalyptus trees are having a moment in both interior and garden trends, and they offer more than just good looks. While the scent from a live plant isn't as strong as the oil, it still helps. Lindsey says eucalyptus trees create a “barrier between your home and the insects.” You can even prune branches to bring fresh foliage indoors.
Now you have plenty of reasons to bring eucalyptus into your life—all that's left is to give it a try.
