Plants that should not be planted around the house because they attract snakes, everyone needs to know to avoid them
Many homeowners unknowingly make their yards a perfect hiding and hunting ground for snakes by planting the wrong types of vegetation. While greenery enhances the beauty of your space, it’s important to know which plants could be inviting slithery visitors closer to your home.
Ivy and Ground Covers
Thick, low-lying ground covers like English ivy, periwinkle, and creeping thyme provide perfect shelter for snakes. These plants offer cool, shaded areas close to the ground where snakes can hide without being noticed.
Tall Ornamental Grasses
While ornamental grasses like pampas grass and fountain grass are popular for landscaping, their dense and tall structure offers snakes great cover. These grasses also attract insects and small animals, a major food source for snakes.
Fruit Trees and Shrubs
Fruit-bearing plants such as guava, banana, and mango attract rodents and birds with fallen fruit, and wherever there’s prey, snakes will follow. Keeping these trees too close to the house can increase the risk of snake activity.
Dense Bushes and Shrubs
Shrubs like lantana, boxwood, and oleander form thick bases that become ideal hiding places. These areas also collect dry leaves and debris, which rodents often use as nesting material—again attracting snakes.
Moisture-Loving Plants
Plants that thrive in wet or damp soil—like ferns and hostas—create a humid environment favored by many snake species. Damp areas also attract amphibians and bugs, increasing the chances of snake visits.
FAQs
Why do these plants attract snakes?
Snakes are attracted to areas that offer food, water, and shelter. Plants that create hiding spots or attract prey become ideal zones for them to stay or hunt.
Can I still have these plants if I maintain them well?
Yes, regular trimming, clearing of fallen fruits, and keeping the base area clean can reduce snake shelter options, even if you have these plants.
Are there any plants that repel snakes?
Some people plant marigolds, garlic, lemongrass, and mother-in-law’s tongue as they are believed to repel snakes with their scent or texture.
Should I completely avoid fruit trees near my home?
Not necessarily, but it’s best to plant them farther from the house and regularly clean fallen fruits to avoid attracting pests and predators like snakes.
Taking these precautions can help you enjoy your garden without worrying about unwanted reptile guests. Small changes in plant choices and yard maintenance can make a big difference.
