How to Control Those Pesky Garden Pests Via Companion Planting
Companion planting is a practical and effective way to control pests naturally. It helps specific plants that attract harmful pests to your garden. Although there are many insects that are beneficial to your garden, and are natural predators of harmful insects, others can be quite detrimental.
Furthermore, companion planting controls pests naturally without the use of chemical pesticides.
How Does Companion Planting Work?
Traditionally, it requires planting vegetables in close proximity to other plants. For example, if radishes are planted close to carrots, they can repel the carrot weevil. Of course, companion planting is not limited to vegetables, and can also be used for flowers and shrubs. Companion planting is a natural defense and a pesticide deterrent for many varieties of growth.
As mentioned above, attracting beneficial insects is the key to keeping harmful pests off of your plants. This involves planting flowers, vegetables, etc. that attract the good insects; i.e., the kind that provides food, shelter and a safe place to breed. If you make your garden appealing for the beneficial insects you want to attract, they will do the rest. To achieve this, companion-plant a wide variety of plants in your garden.
Fertilizer will also help you by feeding the beneficial insects. They help improve overall plant vigor and help control insect pests.
Choosing the Right Plants
The best plants for your garden will vary. Flowers with a long flowering season, such as roses, will need more attention compared to a short-season flower. But it is possible to grow a large variety of roses and other flowers in a smaller amount of space.
Besides the space factor, consider the amount of time you want to spend maintaining your roses. If you want to enjoy your roses all season, you will want to plant a mix of perennials with annuals. Some of the best perennials include Peruvian lilies, Calla lilies and Dahlias. The most well-known type of perennial is the Gardenia, which produces large white blooms. Another great perennial is the Lavender, which has a violet hue.
Additionally, the Daphne is a beautiful type of Lavender that is typically used in border planting or for cutting. They produce amazing purple flowers.
One of the great things about Lavender is its growing capabilities. Lavender grows wonderfully in large plant pots as well as in garden borders and in grassland. If potted, you can easily move your plants around the garden.
By companion planting in your garden, you can do away with harmful insects that destroy plants, while simultaneously attracting the insects that are beneficial. Do your research and find out the best flowers, plants and vegetables that will best suit your needs. You will not only have a thriving garden, but a beautiful outdoor space that will add to the beauty of your home.
