As a horticulturist with a focus on integrated pest management, I can suggest several plants that are known to deter Japanese beetles. Japanese beetles are notorious for their voracious appetite and ability to cause significant damage to a variety of plants. However, certain plants have natural defenses or are simply unappealing to these pests. Here are some options:


1. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) - The strong scent and chemicals in marigolds are known to repel many types of beetles.

2. Ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum) - These plants release a scent that Japanese beetles find unattractive.

3. Garlic (Allium sativum) - Planting garlic near your vulnerable plants can help keep beetles away due to its strong smell.

4. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) - Similar to garlic, chives have a strong odor that can deter beetles.

5. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) - The anise-like smell of fennel can help keep Japanese beetles at bay.

6. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) - Some gardeners have found that basil can deter these beetles.
7.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) - The scent of lavender is often disliked by Japanese beetles.
8.
Citrus Trees - The strong smell of citrus can deter many insects, including Japanese beetles.
9.
Coleus (Coleus spp.) - Some varieties of Coleus are said to have a scent that repels Japanese beetles.
10.
Angelica (Angelica archangelica) - This plant's strong smell can be a natural deterrent.

Remember, no single plant is a guaranteed repellent, and a combination of methods is often the most effective strategy against Japanese beetles.

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List of pest-repelling plantsPlantPestscastor beanrepels molescatniprepels ants, flea beetles, aphids, the Japanese beetle, squash bugs, weevils, the Colorado potato beetle, the cabbage looper, and cockroaches. May attract cats.chamomilerepels flying insectschivesrepels carrot fly, Japanese beetle, and aphids51 more rowsread more >>