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Best Companion Plants for Pest Control

A gardener’s biggest nuisance, pests pose a significant challenge to the growth and well-being of all plants. From mosquitos and aphids to slugs and snails, the presence of garden pests can lead to wilted leaves, black spots, mangled and shriveled flower growth, and even dying plants. Fortunately, gardeners can ward off invasive pests and preserve their garden’s livelihood through the usage of companion planting.

What Is Companion Planting?

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A traditional gardening methodology observed across generations, companion planting involves the practice of growing plants together to derive a certain benefit. Useful for generating a more vigorous plant growth and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, this technique has also been proven to invite beneficial insects, as well as repel disruptive pests.

Common Companion Plants

No matter if you opt for flowers like marigolds and chrysanthemums or herbs such as rosemary and thyme, companion plants add variety, color, and extra protection to your garden.

Flowers

Not just a pretty sight, flowers can be utilized for their natural ability to mitigate pest damage to your garden. When grown near other plants, especially vegetables, these tried-and-true flowers can prevent infection and boost garden growth:

  • Marigolds: repel mosquitoes, Japanese beetles, and aphids
  • Petunias: repel leafhoppers and aphids
  • Chrysanthemums: repel ants, cockroaches, bedbugs, fleas, ticks, and lice
  • Geraniums: repel mosquitos, leafhoppers, and ticks
  • Nasturtiums: repel whiteflies, aphids, and beetles

Herbs

Appreciated in more ways than one for their natural fragrances, herbs attract beneficial insects and repel destructive pests, making them great choices for vegetable gardens and ornamental borders. If you choose to use herbs in your method of deterring garden pests, you’ll want to consider the following options:

  • Lavender: repels fleas, flies, mosquitos, ticks, and moths
  • Thyme: repels maggots, mosquitos, hornworms, and whiteflies
  • Rosemary: repels mosquitos, slugs, flies, snails, and beetles
  • Mint: repels ants, flea beetles, aphids, and whiteflies
  • Basil: repels mosquitos, ticks, flies, gnats, and hornworms

Contact TPG – The Plant Gallery for Gardening Services

If you’re battling unsightly pests in your garden, you’re a step away from resolving the issue. At TPG – The Plant Gallery, our Garden Center boasts a range of flowers and plants that can add both variety and protection to your New Orleans garden. To learn more about your companion planting options, contact us today for further information on our garden care services and products.