Question: I am trying to find out what kind of plants I can plant in my garden that will help ward off insects.
Answer: Despite a large amount of misinformation published on this topic, there are no plants that can be used to repel insects effectively. There are, however, plants that can be planted together to reap other benefits. Flowering plants can be used to attract beneficial insects that help manage pests. Mostly these helpful plants are flowering plants that supply nectar and pollen to the predators and parasites that prey on pest insects. The nice thing is most any flowering plants can be effective in this way so you can choose ones that you like and that do well in your area. One plant feature that works well is flowers that face up and form a cup or sorts that can hold rainwater since water can be scarce. Another idea is planting varieties that are more attractive to pests and can be used as trap crops to lure the pests away from a desirable crop. The grower then has the option to spray the trap crop with the pests on it or simply let them eat it. Also, some plants act as nurse plants for more sensitive species by shading them. We often see saguaro cacti growing this way naturally in the desert.
Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Questions may be emailed to tucsongardensage@gmail.com
