Other Companion Plants That Offer Pest Control
More Plant Choices For Natural Pest Repelling
Gardening is a hobby that lends itself to new approaches and solutions, all to create the perfect yard environment. Understanding how companion planting can provide a “natural” method for control of garden pests and plant disease is an interesting approach and makes for great looking areas.
The process of placing plants in close to proximity to other plants for “companion planting” creates an environment that utilizes the natural interaction of the selected plants. Many plants offer the basic benefits of being a natural repellent to a garden pest that will lessen or prevent damage to surrounding plants. This simple aspect creates a more balanced ecosystem that is inviting for beneficial insects and unacceptable or unsurvivable for harmful pests.
Plants add beauty and function when planted through the yard, but they can also become “helper” plants in the yard. There are plants that attract pollen-carrying insects for increased flowering of fruit trees and vegetables. Some plants have roots, stems, and leaves that are toxic to annoying pests and animals. Still other plants improve the taste and hardiness of garden vegetables, both during the growth process and later in the preparation of food dishes.
Other Pest Repelling Plants
Dahlias - For the gardener that does not mind planting annuals, these showy flowers will also repel nematodes.
Elderberry - Pests do not like a tea spray made from the leaves of elderberry, particularly aphids, beetles, peach tree borers, and moles. A general plant tea recipe can be used.
Geranium - This popular annual, particularly the variety with white blooms entices the Japanese beetle and cabbageworm. The pests try their tasty, but poisonous leaves and no more pests.
Larkspur -Poisonous plants for both humans and pests should be handled carefully, so be careful about mixing this plant in vegetable gardens. If, however, the garden area requires a good repellent for Japanese beetles and pets and children aren’t likely to be impacted, Larkspur is a good bet.
Marigolds - The annual French Marigold plant is probably the most well known companion plant. Marigolds deter nematodes, rabbits and maggots, but may attract slugs and mites. Fragrant marigolds are great for planting throughout flowerbed areas for the gardener’s pleasure, but whiteflies find this plant very unattractive.
Petunias – Colorful summer plants, such as Petunias are always a welcome addition to the garden. Petunias, however, aren’t just bearers of pretty blooms, they also fight a wide variety of pests such as aphids, and leafhoppers.
Radishes - Even if you do not like eating radishes, they are still a great choice for planting in the garden. These plants will deter cucumber beetles, squash borers and rust flies.
Stinging Nettles – When deciding what plants offer beneficial uses to the garden, the downside of the plant also needs to be considered. The Stinging Nettle actually has “hairs” that cause a stingy, itchy feeling but offer protection to plants from pests and diseases.
Zinnias - These pretty and tasty flowers draw hummingbirds, which in turn eat whiteflies. Plant these along patio areas, enjoy the birds and lack of whiteflies.
Companion Planting Has Other Benefits
In the process of repelling certain insects, an environment is created that is inviting for other insects. Colorful and sweet plants attract bees, which in turn will assist with pollination and increase blooming and crops in gardens. As the gardener utilizes companion planting practices the reduction of adverse garden pests creates healthy plants that are also more resistant to diseases and enticing to beneficial insects.
The entire process in selecting and planting is based on providing more balance in the mini-ecosystem of your garden or yard and reducing the need for man-made chemical applications to control pests. The process begins with proper flower and garden bed planning. For more information read, "The Garden Becomes an Artist", which offers insight in the stages of garden planning.
Gardens Offer Balance
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Beneficial Bees
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