Using plants to protect other plants
Protecting plants from unwanted insects by using other plants is the natural, chemical-free way to remove harmful insects from your garden. And you won't be eliminating all the beneficial bugs.

Research indicates that plants produce excessive foliage and can afford some pruning. Natural pruning by insects can improve yields and increase the vitamin content of fruit in certain plants.

Planting practices
A certain relationship exists between plants, and between insects and plants. Companion planting is the usual name given to the practice of planting according to these relationships, but actually four different practices are involved.

Mixed: Planting several different plants together, as in nature, so that insects are confused by the multitude of "smells" and have more difficulty finding the plant they prefer to eat and lay their eggs on.

Repellent: Certain plants such as marigolds, mints and garlic are offensive to some insects, and will deter them when planted near other plants.

Companion: Combinations of plantings produce crops that grow better and are healthier because of their proximity.

Trap: Lure plants are located near a plant you want protected. Insects attack the lure plants and can then be hand-picked and destroyed.

Additional tips

• Learn to identify insects and diseases so you'll be able to detect problems early.

• Encourage natural enemies such as toads, birds, ladybugs and praying mantis, who will eat harmful bugs.

• Rotate crops to avoid a build-up of pests in any one area.

Helpful Herbs and Flowers
When planning your next garden, experiment with these forms of natural plant protection. No doubt you will also come up with your own safe and effective combinations.

Plants that naturally repel insects

Adapted from materials produced by the Canadian Organic Growers, Toronto.