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Carolina Gardening

Need help in what to plant in my yard that will deter snakes.

7 years ago

I just bought a home southwest in N. C. I am from the north and not sure what to plant in the yard to deter snakes near the house. The land is in a animal shelter area with a pond near the house. I was thinking to start with lemon grass's, mint's, garlic, onions, est. But I am not sure what will grow well in that area and what would keep them away. I would love some idea's, Thank You for your thought's

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Comments (3)

chas045
7 years ago
I suppose that such plants exist, but I don't know about them. I just wanted to point out that mints will take over a garden and therefore probably should only be used in pots. I also wonder if you might prefer snakes to rodents?
linda_lily58 thanked chas045
gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
7 years ago
There are no plants that will deter snakes. The only thing you can do is make the area less habitable for them - the plants you list tend to repel or deter insects and it is the lack of insects that will keep the snakes away but they will also be on the hunt for other prey, including rats, mice, frogs, etc. Keep tall grasses and weeds away from the house, keep shrubs and hedges properly trimmed. Remove any brush, wood or rock piles that can provide hiding or nesting places. Remove birdhouses or birdfeeders and avoid ponds.

FWIW, most so-called prepared snake repellents are pretty non-effective in much the same way that mole and gopher repellents are. Essential plant oils like cinnamon, clove or camphor can help but would need to be reapplied frequently. These are much stronger than the plants themselves as the oils are concentrated.

If you are concerned about poisonous snakes, it would be best to enlist the help of a licensed pest exterminator.
linda_lily58 thanked gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
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That pot seems kind of deep, bottom most soil may still be somewhat wet. What kind of soil is that in? When was the last time you changed the mix? Is that soil hard to the touch? Re-reading your comments, leaves curling inward suggests thirst. Sorry for all the questions, but things like this are often drainage & or soil related. I'd say water it, water it well, 'til it comes out the bottom. Then wait a week & see how it reacts. Don't know where you are in the US, but the North Atlantic has had some hot weather already. 2.5 wks w/out water seems too long a time IMO. If mine, I'd unpot, check the roots & use the occasion to change all the soil to Cactus & Succulent soil & Perlite, mixed in equal parts. If you choose to do this, pls. remove all the old mix by crumbling it off w/ your fingers. Then wait a day or 2 after repotting before you water it.
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User
7 years ago
Linda,

The pond near the house is not good if you don't like snakes. Snakes will drink from your pond, and it sounds like you have woods near your property, or on your property also, which all wildlife will live in, including snakes.

Taking care of your property is essential, by not leaving anything around that a snake will hide under. Keeping the grass and brush short helps, not having a house with a crawl space, not having bushes right next to the house, it will help.

It will not keep all snakes away, but you don't want the home to be attractive to snakes. You will still have snakes, so be careful. Be aware of where you are walking.
linda_lily58 thanked User

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