What Are The Benefits Of Using Companion Planting To Deter Garden Pests?
Companion planting has always been a fascinating gardening concept to me. In particular, the practice of incorporating flowers into vegetable gardens has been intriguing. Not only do these beautiful blooms add a splash of color and life to the garden, but they are also capable of deterring pests. I recently came across an article that delves deeper into this topic and would like to share the insights I gained.
Firstly, let me explain what companion planting is. It is essentially the idea of planting different crops close to each other to benefit their growth and discourage pest infestations. This is done by either creating favorable habitats for beneficial insects or by repelling harmful ones with scents or flavors. While most people associate companion planting with vegetables, flowers can also play a vital role in this practice.
One of the primary benefits of incorporating flowers into vegetable gardens is their ability to attract pollinators. Bees and other pollinators are attracted to the bright colors and sweet scent of flowers. Having these pollinators buzzing around the garden can increase the yield and quality of many vegetable crops, including tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. This is because pollination is essential for fruit set.
Another benefit of companion planting with flowers is their ability to deter pests. While companion planting with herbs is well-known to repel pests, flowers can also play a role in pest control. Certain flowers contain compounds that can repel specific pests. For example, marigolds are effective at repelling nematodes, while nasturtiums can deter aphids and whiteflies. By planting these flowers alongside vegetables, you can create a natural barrier against specific pests.
The practice of companion planting with flowers can also create a more aesthetically pleasing garden. Flowers add a pop of color to any garden, making it more vibrant and visually appealing. This is not only beneficial for the gardener but can also have benefits for the plants themselves. Studies have shown that even a small amount of color in a garden can help attract pollinators and beneficial insects, which ultimately results in better plant health and yields.
Now that we have covered the benefits of companion planting with flowers, let's delve a bit deeper into some of the best flowers to use in vegetable gardens:
Marigold
Marigolds are probably the most well-known flower for companion planting. These sunny little flowers are not only beautiful but have excellent insect-repelling properties. They are particularly effective at repelling nematodes, which are known to attack tomato plants. Marigolds have a strong scent that is unappealing to many insect pests and can repel them from the area. Planting marigolds around tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants can help protect them from nematode damage.
Nasturtium
Nasturtiums are another beautiful flower that has many uses in the garden. They are edible and have a slightly peppery flavor that can add a spicy kick to salads. They are also useful as a trap crop for aphids and whiteflies. The flowers of the nasturtium plant emit a scent that these pests find unappealing, drawing them away from other plants. Planting nasturtiums around brassicas like broccoli, cauliflower, or cabbage can help protect them from infestations and improve their overall health.
Sweet Alyssum
If you are looking for a flower that attracts beneficial insects, then look no further than sweet alyssum. This delicate white flower has a sweet honey-like scent that draws in hoverflies and lacewings, both of which feed on aphids, caterpillars, and other pest insects. Planting sweet alyssum around your vegetable garden can help draw in these beneficial insects and improve your yields.
Calendula
Calendula is a bright yellow or orange flower that is known for its powerful insect-repelling properties. It is particularly effective at repelling whiteflies, which can be a real problem in vegetable gardens. Calendula's bright flowers have a strong scent that is unappealing to whiteflies but attractive to bees and other pollinators. This makes it an excellent plant to use as a companion for vegetables like tomatoes or peppers.
Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant herb that is often used for its calming properties. But did you know that it is also an effective insect repellent? Lavender oil has been shown to repel mosquitoes, moths, and other flying insects. Planting lavender in your vegetable garden can help keep these pests away from your crops, and the beautiful purple blooms can add a touch of elegance to your garden.
Final Thoughts
Companion planting with flowers is a gardening practice that is often overlooked. However, as we have seen, it has many benefits for both the gardener and the plants themselves. By incorporating flowers into your vegetable garden, you not only create a more aesthetically pleasing space but also attract pollinators and beneficial insects while repelling harmful pests. Some of the best flowers to use in vegetable gardens include marigolds, nasturtiums, sweet alyssum, calendula, and lavender. So why not give companion planting with flowers a try and see the benefits for yourself?
