Vegetable gardening is a hobby that many people enjoy, but the care needed to make such a garden grow healthily and pest free requires plenty of effort. It is a challenge to keep your vegetable garden free from pests, but the application of chemical control methods can create more problems. As such the only solution to a pest free and healthy garden is to apply eco-friendly pest control methods. When you invest in natural forms of pest control such as repelling flowers and herbs, you get more than your money’s worth as not only will the pests be eradicated, but you also get a more beautiful garden with the addition of these flowers. In fact many vegetable gardeners now protect their gardens naturally instead of applying dangerous pest control products which can sometimes contaminate vegetables, however, when pest infestations are severe, professionals must be consulted.
1. Rosemary
This herb resembles an evergreen and it can produce lavender blossoms which can help repel flies and moths. It can be placed among plants especially carrots and cabbage as it can mask the scent of these vegetables making it difficult for pests to locate them. However, not only is rosemary beneficial to a vegetable garden as a natural form of pest control, but it is also handy when it comes to cooking delicious roasts.
2. Oregano
This is an amazing addition to any type of garden because it can keep aphids, ants and flies away. You must remember that oregano is an invasive plant which can take over large areas when planted without a barrier. This is why it is essential to have this herb planted inside a can. You can cut off the top and bottom parts of a can and insert it into the ground making sure that the top is in level with the ground so that the can will act as a barrier. Just like rosemary, it is also a useful herb to have around because they can make pasta dishes more delicious.
3. Basil
In order to repel mosquitoes and flies, you can plant basil in your garden. Its white or lavender blossoms and unique scent makes it a useful companion especially for tomatoes as basil can enhance its flavor. You can also take a few in a pot and place it in the kitchen’s window to help keep flies out and so that you can easily take a few leaves whenever needed to add to your pasta, pizza and salad recipes.
4. Mint
Like oregano, mint can also spread out quickly and choke out other vegetables. It can repel ants and aphids, while the blooms can provide a subtle color to make the garden more attractive. Mint must be planted in a submerged pot, but it can also be planted as a border so you can control its growth easily.
5. Marigolds
To make sure that your entire garden is well protected, you can plant marigolds all throughout. They can repel pests including nematodes which can attack vegetable roots. You can also plant them around your garden for a bright yellow border. They must be planted in direct sunlight and in well drained soil.
6. Nasturtiums
These colored flowers can brighten up a vegetable garden and keep beetles away as well. Not only are these flowers useful in making a garden beautiful, but the blooms can also be included in salads since they are edible.
Citations:
- Photograph by: Ricorocks.
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-  License: Royalty Free or iStock source: http://mrg.bz/oBiBm9
Valerie Williams is a freelance writer specializing in natural forms of termite control in Santa Fe and other types of pest control in homes and gardens. She also provides information about natural pest control methods for vegetable gardens, how they affect lives and the various services of professionals that help treat severe infestations.