How to Use Plants to Repel Pests Naturally

Chemical pesticides can cause numerous health and environmental problems. Many people are becoming more aware of the dangers of pesticides and want to be more environmental and health conscious. By doing something as simple as companion planting you can control the bugs in your yard and garden without resorting to chemical pesticide use. Many plants produce natural compounds that repel certain bugs and other pests. Some plants are general pest deterrents while others work as companions for specific plants.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• marigolds
• garlic
• asters
• chives
• other companion plants
• garden soil
• shovel
• trowel
• gardening gloves

Use PLants to Repel Pests Naturally

1. Plant general pest repelling plants around your yard and gardens like calendula, asters, chives, chrysanthemum, citronella, and garlic; these are great for keeping bugs at bay. Garlic and chrysanthemums are very effective at keeping Japanese beetles from nibbling on your goodies.

2. Keep your tomatoes in tip top shape by planting these companion plants to repel nasty tomato loving bugs; marigolds, borage, mint, basil, and pot marigold (different from a regular marigold). These plants will help keep away white flies, nematodes, beetles, and tomato horn worms.

3. Lure aphids away from your precious vegetable plants by planting sunflowers nearby. Aphids won’t hurt your sunflowers or the sunflower seeds but they can cause a lot of damage to your veggies.

4. Discourage mosquitoes by filling your yard with garlic, lemongrass, and catnip, rosemary, marigolds and citronella plants. All emit strong odors that mosquitoes find repulsive.

5. Add borders of bug repelling plants around your garden areas. Wormwood keeps furry critters out of your gardens. Catnip deters many bugs especially the flea beetle. Onions, chives, and garlic work well around many plants to keep the bugs away as well. You may even consider adding some around porches and patios to deter mosquitoes, fleas, and all kinds of pesky bugs.

6. Need specific protection for your plants? Mint deters ants. Petunias should be planted with beans. Peppermint should be planted with cabbage to deter cabbage butterflies. Tansy should be planted under fruit trees and near raspberries and roses. Sage is a good choice for planting with rosemary, cabbage and carrots.

Tips & Warnings

• Want to learn more? Check out Great Garden Companions by Sally Jean Cunningham.