Some flowers do more than look pretty, they can actually help discourage unwanted pests and support a healthier garden ecosystem. The trick is knowing how they help:
- Some repel pests with scent or natural compounds
- Some act as trap crops (pulling pests away from your veggies)
- Some attract beneficial insects that eat the bad ones for you
Here are a few garden favourites that do all of the above, and how to use them effectively.
Marigolds
Marigolds are a classic for a reason. They’re often used to help discourage:
- aphids
- whiteflies
- and some soil pests
Best way to use them:
Plant marigolds around the edges of beds, in containers with veggies, or as a border near problem areas. They’re easy, colourful, and do double duty as pollinator-friendly blooms.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are “trap crop magic.”
They can attract pests like aphids away from vegetables, helping protect your main crop.
Best way to use them:
Plant nasturtiums near the plants you want to protect (especially veggies). Let them take the hit, then remove heavily infested leaves if needed.
Bonus: they trail beautifully in containers and raised beds.
Lavender
Lavender is loved by people… and often disliked by pests like:
- mosquitoes
- some moths
Best way to use it:
Plant near patios, entrances, and sunny borders. Lavender likes sun and well-drained soil, so it’s perfect in warm, dry spots where other plants struggle.
Calendula
Calendula doesn’t just add colour, it helps by attracting beneficial insects that hunt pests.
Best way to use it:
Mix calendula into veggie beds or plant it near crops that commonly deal with aphids. It’s one of the easiest “plant-it-and-forget-it” companions.
Alliums (Ornamental Onions)
Alliums have a strong scent that can help discourage pests and confuse insects that rely on smell to find their target plants.
Best way to use them:
Plant in clusters throughout beds, especially around plants you want to protect. They also add a beautiful architectural look to gardens.
Petunias
Petunias are often used around vegetables to help reduce insect pressure.
Best way to use them:
Use petunias as border plants or in mixed containers with edible crops. They’re a great choice if you want companion planting that still looks decorative.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums naturally contain compounds that are used in many insect control products.
Best way to use them:
Plant mums as part of a fall garden plan or near high-traffic garden areas. They’re a great “season extender” that can support a more pest-resistant garden approach.
The simplest “works-every-time” combo
If you want an easy companion planting mix for veggie beds and containers, start with:
-
Marigolds + nasturtiums + calendula
It covers trap cropping, beneficial insect attraction, and general pest discouragement, while looking full and colourful.
Want to build a garden that works with nature?
Stop in and ask us which flowers pair best with your vegetables and garden beds, we’ll help you choose the right combos for your space, your sun exposure, and what you’re growing.
