Turn Snakes Away From Your Yard With These 2 Common Essential Oils

Snakes may not see well, but their sense of smell is razor sharp, and that's exactly where your advantage lies. When snakes flick their forked tongues, they pull in smell particles from both sides and guide them to each tip to pick up scent clues. Strong-smelling essential oils like clove and cinnamon can overwhelm their scent receptors and help keep them out of your yard. These natural repellents disrupt a snake's ability to sense its surroundings and navigate effectively. In a 2002 study from Pest Management Science, brown tree snakes exposed to aerosol bursts of these essential oils showed intense, disoriented movement, which is a strong sign of sensory overload. While these types of snakes aren't typical in many parts of North America, the U.S. Department of Agriculture also recognizes both oils as effective snake repellents.

The compounds behind this effect, eugenol in clove oil and cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon oil, are well known for their potent aroma and are commonly used in natural pest control. While snakes are highly sensitive to these intense scents, many people find the warm, spicy aroma pleasant, making these oils an appealing option for use around homes and gardens. Unlike chemical repellents, which may harm birds of prey or other beneficial species, these plant-based alternatives offer a safer, low-impact solution, ideal for gardens, backyards, and areas shared with pets, children, and wildlife.

To make your own all-natural bug repellent, combine 5 to 10 drops of cinnamon oil or clove oil (or a mix of both) with 1 gallon of water in a clean bucket, then move the desired amount of the mixture to a spray bottle. Shake well before each use. You can spray this solution along garden borders, shed floors, garage corners, or anywhere snakes have been spotted. If you're working in a small space or need a more targeted approach, soak cotton balls or strips of cloth in the mixture and place them near vents, cracks, or known entry points.

While this method won't guarantee snakes stay away, it may help create an environment they're less likely to linger in. Just be cautious, if you see a snake and spray it directly, especially near the head, it may trigger a fast escape response. For indoor use, you can also diffuse cinnamon and clove oils in enclosed areas like basements, attics, or garden sheds to help maintain an uninviting scent barrier. This blend is also useful where snakes in flower beds are a concern.

Choosing the right repellent often depends on where and how you're using it. Some products made with strong-smelling chemicals might keep snakes away right after use, but their effect tends to wear off quickly once the weather changes. Plant-based options like clove or cinnamon oil are less harsh and better suited for gardens, but they'll need to be reapplied more often, especially in open areas where scent fades fast. However, if the issue continues, consider calling a professional for safe removal.