What To Plant To Deter Squash Bugs

To deter squash bugs, plant strong-smelling companion plants like radishes, nasturtiums, marigolds, dill, and oregano around your squash.
 
These plants won’t magically wipe out every squash bug, but they can help keep the population down and protect your zucchini, pumpkins, and butternut squash.
 
If you’ve been battling these annoying pests every summer and wondering what to plant to deter squash bugs, you’re in the right place.
 
In this post, we’ll go over the best plants to deter squash bugs, why they work, and how to use them in your garden for the best results.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

Why Certain Plants Deter Squash Bugs

Certain plants deter squash bugs because of their strong scent, natural compounds, or ability to attract predators that feed on these pests.
 

1. Strong Aromas Confuse Squash Bugs

Squash bugs find their host plants by scent.
 
When you plant strong-smelling herbs and flowers nearby, those aromas mask the smell of your squash.
 
This makes it harder for squash bugs to locate your precious zucchini and pumpkins.
 

2. Natural Compounds Repel Them

Some plants release natural chemicals that squash bugs simply don’t like.
 
For example, radishes and nasturtiums contain compounds that are unpleasant to these pests.
 
That’s why planting what deters squash bugs often means reaching for these clever companions.
 

3. Beneficial Insects Come to the Rescue

Plants like dill and marigolds attract beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps and ladybugs.
 
These good bugs prey on squash bug eggs and nymphs, keeping the population in check.
 
So when you plant to deter squash bugs, you’re also building a mini ecosystem that works for you.
 

Best Plants to Deter Squash Bugs

Here are the top plants to deter squash bugs that you can add to your garden this season.
 

1. Radishes

Radishes are a classic companion plant for squash.
 
They repel squash bugs and also break up the soil, which helps your squash roots grow deeper.
 
Let some radishes go to flower and they’ll attract beneficial insects too.
 

2. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a beautiful trap crop.
 
Squash bugs are drawn to them instead of your squash, and the flowers add a pop of color to the garden.
 
As a bonus, nasturtiums are edible and taste peppery in salads.
 

3. Marigolds

Marigolds are a go-to for deterring many garden pests, including squash bugs.
 
Their strong scent masks the smell of squash and their roots release compounds that repel nematodes too.
 
Plant them generously around your squash beds for the best effect.
 

4. Dill

Dill attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and parasitic wasps that feast on squash bugs.
 
It’s also a great herb to have on hand for pickling and cooking.
 
Just let a few dill plants flower to really bring in the good bugs.
 

5. Oregano

Oregano is another strong-smelling herb that helps deter squash bugs.
 
It works well as a border plant around your squash patch.
 
Plus, you can harvest it all season for your favorite Italian dishes.
 

How to Plant These Companions to Deter Squash Bugs

Knowing what to plant to deter squash bugs is one thing, but how you plant matters just as much.
 

1. Use a Border Planting Strategy

Plant your repellent herbs and flowers in a border around your squash beds.
 
This creates a scented barrier that squash bugs have to cross.
 
It won’t stop every single bug, but it slows them down and reduces the numbers that reach your plants.
 

2. Interplant Within the Rows

Don’t just stick to the edges.
 
Tuck radishes, dill, and marigolds between your squash plants.
 
This confuses squash bugs even more because the scent of squash is diluted everywhere.
 

3. Keep Up With Maintenance

Companion planting isn’t a one-and-done deal.
 
Keep your plants healthy, remove weeds, and check under leaves for squash bug eggs regularly.
 
Combine these plantings with row covers or handpicking for the best results.
 

So, What to Plant to Deter Squash Bugs?

To deter squash bugs, plant radishes, nasturtiums, marigolds, dill, and oregano around and among your squash.
 
These plants won’t eliminate squash bugs overnight, but they’ll make your garden less inviting to them and more welcoming to helpful predators.
 
Give this strategy a try this season and watch your squash thrive with fewer pests.
 
Happy planting!