These 7 Houseplants Could Be Your Best Defense Against Indoor Pests

The constant battle against kitchen pests usually leads to a cabinet full of harsh sprays and toxic traps. While it's tempting to go the chemical route when you see a line of ants or a swarm of fruit flies, you don't have to compromise your air quality or food safety to get results. There is a much more natural way to create a perimeter around your home that relies on biology rather than bleach.In 2026, more people are turning to functional greenery to do the dirty work of pest control. And that's a great way to cut down your use of potentially harmful chemicals in your home. Certain houseplants act as living shields, using their natural scents to deter unwanted visitors. Even better, many of these botanical bouncers pull double duty as fresh ingredients in your cooking.

…

Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at CNET.