Discover 20 Powerful Plants to Naturally Keep Raccoons Away from Your Yard

Gardening Tips
By Ella Brown

Imagine stepping into your backyard oasis, free from the nightly chaos of raccoons rummaging through your trash and disrupting your peace.

While these clever creatures are undeniably fascinating, their persistent invasions can turn your serene outdoor space into a source of frustration. But what if you could naturally reclaim your yard without the hassle of traps or repellents?

In this blog post, we’ll reveal 20 powerful plants that not only enhance the beauty of your landscape but also act as effective raccoon deterrents.

From aromatic herbs that fill the air with enticing scents to thorny bushes that create an impenetrable barrier, these botanical allies offer a harmonious solution to keep your yard peaceful and raccoon-free.

Dive in to discover how nature itself can safeguard your sanctuary and transform your garden into a tranquil haven.

1. Lavender

© Sugar Creek Gardens

Lavender’s soothing scent is a delight for humans, but raccoons find it overwhelming. Planting lavender around the perimeter of your garden can create a fragrant barrier that deters these nocturnal visitors.

2. Garlic

© Countryside Magazine

The strong aroma of garlic is unpleasant to raccoons. Incorporate garlic plants into your garden, or use garlic sprays, to effectively repel raccoons and protect your crops.

3. Marigolds

© Britannica

Marigolds are not only beautiful with their vibrant colors, but their strong scent is known to deter raccoons. Plant them as a border around your garden to keep raccoons and other pests away.

4. Peppermint

© Urban Tilth

Peppermint’s potent aroma is another effective raccoon deterrent. Plant peppermint near entry points to your garden or use peppermint oil to create a raccoon-repelling barrier.

5. Chives

© Sprouted Garden

Chives contain sulfur compounds that are effective in deterring raccoons. Planting chives in your garden not only keeps raccoons away but also adds flavor to your culinary dishes.

6. Rosemary

© Better Homes & Gardens

Rosemary’s strong scent is unappealing to raccoons. Utilize rosemary in your garden landscape to create an aromatic barrier that keeps raccoons at bay.

7. Onions

© Better Homes & Gardens

Onions emit a pungent smell that raccoons dislike. Planting onions throughout your garden can serve as a natural raccoon deterrent, while also providing a staple ingredient for your kitchen.

8. Sage

© Britannica

Sage is another aromatic herb that raccoons avoid. Incorporate sage into your garden design for a fragrant, raccoon-repelling touch.

9. Thyme

© Urban Tilth

The earthy aroma of thyme is effective in keeping raccoons away. Plant thyme around your garden or near entry points to discourage raccoons from entering.

10. Basil

© Deep Harvest Farm

Basil’s fragrant leaves are not favored by raccoons. Use basil plants in your garden to add a fresh aroma while naturally deterring unwanted raccoon visitors.

11. Fennel

© UT Gardens

Fennel has a strong scent that raccoons dislike. Plant fennel in your yard to utilize its natural repelling properties while enjoying its culinary uses.

12. Oregano

© Herbal Reality

Oregano’s pungent aroma is a natural raccoon deterrent. Incorporate oregano into your garden for its aromatic benefits and to keep raccoons at bay.

13. Dill

© Growfully

Dill’s strong scent is not appealing to raccoons. Use dill in your garden to create a fragrant, raccoon-repelling environment.

14. Coriander

© Gardeners’ World

Coriander’s distinct aroma can deter raccoons. Plant coriander in your garden to add a unique scent that keeps raccoons away while enhancing your cooking.

15. Catnip

© Thresh Seed Co.

While catnip is adored by cats, raccoons are less enthusiastic about its scent. Plant catnip in your garden to deter raccoons while entertaining your feline friends.

16. Lemon Balm

© Hudson Valley Seed Company

Lemon balm’s citrusy aroma is unappealing to raccoons. Use lemon balm plants around your garden to create a refreshing, raccoon-repellent environment.

17. Tansy

© WeedWise Program – Clackamas Soil and Water Conservation District

Tansy has a strong aroma that deters raccoons. Plant tansy in your garden for its vibrant flowers and to naturally keep raccoons away.

18. Rue

© Plantura Magazin

Rue’s aromatic foliage is effective in repelling raccoons. Use rue in your garden to create a visually appealing and raccoon-deterring landscape.

19. Eucalyptus

© Eureka Farms

Eucalyptus’s strong scent is a natural deterrent for raccoons. Plant eucalyptus in your garden to enjoy its aromatic benefits while keeping raccoons at a distance.

20. Mint

© Holmes Seed Company

Mint’s potent aroma is known to repel raccoons effectively. Incorporate mint into your garden to create a fresh and raccoon-free space.