Use Companion Planting to Control Insects

Many plants will repel insects from attacking those that seem to be more vulnerable to attack. Perhaps the principle operating here is similar to that of monoculture on farms - a garden full of roses encourages a build-up of aphids through a plentiful food source whereas mixed planting limits their food supply.

Too often we exclude native plants and trees from our garden and, in the absence of native bird and insect life, wonder why we have to resort to chemical bug control.

An under planting of lavender, garlic, parsley, orange nasturtiums or chives will help to protect roses against aphids. Marigolds can also be used to repel leaf-eating pests in the vegetable garden.

Basil will repel white fly and pots of eau-de-cologne mint, pyrethrum and tansy placed near the back door or the barbecue area will keep flies away. Mosquitoes will also keep away from garden areas planted with garlic, tansy or southernwood. Geraniums are supposed to keep bugs away too.