Nasturtiums are a dual-purpose powerhouse in the vegetable garden. They attract pests like aphids and squash bugs away from your main crop, while also bringing in beneficial insects like hoverflies and predatory wasps.
Cosmos are easy to grow from seeds, with blooms appearing in about two months. They tolerate summer heat well and add height and movement to garden beds , attracting pollinators with their delicate, daisy-like flowers.
Borage is a magnet for pollinators and beneficial insects, which makes it a perfect companion for vegetables like squash. Its star-shaped flowers attract bees while also drawing in pest-eating insects like ladybugs.
Bee Balm is a magnet for pollinators, especially hummingbirds and bees. It also helps to reduce the risk of fungal diseases that affect many vegetables. It grows in USDA zones 4 to 9 and thrives with moderate watering, full sun to partial shade.
Calendula brings bright color to the garden and a subtle, musky scent that many pests find unappealing. It helps deter squash bugs, aphids, hornworms, and flea beetles.
Marigolds are one of the most well-known companion plants—and for good reason. Their strong scent repels a wide range of pests, including squash bugs, aphids, nematodes, and beetles that often target vegetables like tomatoes and squash.
Sunflowers will brighten up the garden, but also serve as a helpful companion to a variety of vegetables. They attract a variety of pollinators and beneficial insects that can improve fruit set and help manage pest populations.