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?

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
Enhance Your Garden With TPG – The Plant Gallery
If pests are disrupting your garden, companion planting can be a game-changer.
At TPG – The Plant Gallery, our landscaping experts can design and plant a vibrant garden filled with companion plants that naturally deter pests and promote healthier growth. From colorful flowers to fragrant herbs, we’ll help you select the perfect plants to enhance your outdoor space and protect your garden’s livelihood.
Contact us today to learn how our landscaping services can bring your garden vision to life.