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Companion planting is an excellent form of pest control. Some plants do better when placed near each other, such as carrots and tomatoes, by providing mutually beneficial nutrients. Other plants’ strong aroma help to discourage nasty pests like small animals and bugs.
Interspersing certain aromatic plants or putting in borders, discourage animals from destroying flowerbeds and gardens. Naturally resistant plants help to deter parasites from vulnerable plants either by camouflaging the aroma of their neighbors or by emitting a strong smell of their own.
Here are some companion planting ideas:
Ø Basil – helps to stimulate the growth of asparagus and peppers; it also adds to the flavor of tomatoes. It helps to repel whiteflies and houseflies. Hang dried basil near doorways and windows to deter flies from entering.
Ø Catnip – attracts bees for increased pollination. It also strongly repels garden pests; but cats love it, so plant it where they can’t dig up your garden. It is best to plant it in pots because it is invasive.
Ø Dill – very beneficial to cabbage and improves the flavor of cucumbers, onions, corn and tomatoes.
Ø Garlic – an excellent repellent for aphids, especially when planted near roses. Its strong aroma also helps to protect vegetables from other insects. But don’t plant this near peas or beans, it stunts their growth.
Ø Mint – repels ants, black flea beetles and cabbage caterpillars. It also benefits tomatoes. An invasive herb that is best planted in pots.
Ø Rosemary – plant this with sage to stimulate each other’s growth and flavor. Repels carrot flies, and protects other vegetables such as beans and cabbage.
Ø Thyme – this aromatic herb acts as a strong deterrent to certain pests such as cabbage worms and when in bloom, attracts bees.
(Growing & Using Herbs in the Midwest by Rosemary Divock)
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