Companion planting is a method of planting different plants together to provide mutual benefits, such as pest control. Here are some examples of companion plants that can help control pests:
- Marigolds: Marigolds are known to repel many types of pests, including nematodes, whiteflies, and aphids. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that prey on pests.
- Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums are a good companion plant for vegetables like cucumbers, squash, and tomatoes. They attract aphids away from these plants, and the leaves can be used to make a natural insecticide.
- Basil: Basil is a good companion plant for tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. It repels pests like flies and mosquitoes, and it also attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
- Chives: Chives are a good companion plant for carrots and tomatoes. They repel carrot flies and aphids and attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and ladybugs.
- Garlic: Garlic is a good companion plant for many vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers, and cabbage. It repels pests like aphids, Japanese beetles, and spider mites.
- Dill: Dill is a good companion plant for cabbage, broccoli, and other brassicas. It attracts beneficial insects like wasps and lacewings that prey on pests like aphids and cabbage worms.
- Sunflowers: Sunflowers are a good companion plant for corn, beans, and other vegetables. They attract beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs that help control pests.
By incorporating these companion plants into your garden, you can help control pests naturally and reduce the need for chemical pesticides.