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Planting certain companion plants with squash can help deter squash bugs.
Yes, what you plant with squash to deter squash bugs really matters because these pests are notorious for ruining zucchini, pumpkins, and butternut squash before you ever get to harvest them.
The good news is that nature has a built-in pest control system, and you can tap into it by choosing the right plants to grow alongside your squash.
Squash bugs are attracted to the smell and sight of squash plants, but strong-smelling herbs, certain flowers, and even some vegetables can confuse them or drive them away.
In this post, we will look at what to plant with squash to deter squash bugs, how these companion plants work, and a few extra tips to keep your squash patch healthy.
Let’s dig in.
Why Companion Planting With Squash Deters Squash Bugs
Companion planting works because many plants release natural compounds that squash bugs hate.
When you plant these near your squash, the pests get confused by the mix of smells and have a harder time finding your crop.
Some companion plants also attract beneficial insects that eat squash bugs or their eggs.
Others act as a physical barrier or trap crop, drawing squash bugs away from your main squash plants.
That is why knowing what to plant with squash to deter squash bugs can save you hours of handpicking and spraying.
1. Strong-Smelling Herbs Like Mint, Dill, and Cilantro
Herbs are some of the best plants to grow with squash to deter squash bugs.
Mint, dill, cilantro, and parsley all have intense aromas that mask the scent of squash.
Squash bugs rely on smell to locate their favorite food, so these herbs throw them off track.
You can plant herbs around the edges of your squash bed or in between rows.
Just be careful with mint because it spreads fast and can take over your garden.
Grow mint in pots and sink the pots into the soil near your squash to keep it contained.
2. Nasturtiums as a Trap Crop for Squash Bugs
Nasturtiums are a classic companion plant for squash and other cucurbits.
They work as a trap crop, meaning squash bugs are attracted to the nasturtiums first and leave your squash alone.
The bright flowers also attract pollinators and beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Plant nasturtiums a few feet away from your squash so the bugs have a clear alternative.
Check the nasturtiums regularly and remove any squash bugs you find there before they move on.
3. Radishes and Onions to Repel Squash Bugs
Radishes and onions are root crops that also work well when you plant them with squash to deter squash bugs.
Their pungent smell confuses squash bugs and makes it harder for them to settle in.
Onions and garlic release sulfur compounds that many pests find unpleasant.
Radishes grow quickly and can be harvested before your squash vines take over the space.
You can also let some radishes go to flower because the blooms attract predatory wasps that eat squash bug nymphs.
Best Flowers to Plant With Squash to Deter Squash Bugs
Flowers do more than look pretty in a squash patch.
The right flowers can repel squash bugs or bring in helpful insects that do the job for you.
Here are the top flowers to consider when you plant with squash to deter squash bugs.
1. Marigolds for Natural Pest Control
Marigolds are a go-to companion plant for many gardeners dealing with squash bugs.
Their roots release a compound that deters nematodes, and the flowers themselves repel several garden pests.
French marigolds are especially effective and easy to grow from seed.
Plant them in a border around your squash bed or in clusters between plants.
Marigolds also attract hoverflies, which lay eggs that hatch into larvae that eat squash bug eggs.
2. Petunias and Geraniums as Repellent Flowers
Petunias and geraniums are two more flowers that help keep squash bugs away.
They release scents that squash bugs dislike, and they look great while doing it.
You can grow them in containers near your squash or directly in the ground.
Both flowers need full sun and well-drained soil, which is the same conditions squash love.
That makes them easy to tuck into any squash bed without extra fuss.
3. Borage to Attract Beneficial Insects
Borage is a lesser-known but powerful companion for squash.
Its star-shaped blue flowers attract bees and predatory insects that help control squash bugs.
Borage also improves soil health by adding trace minerals.
Plant borage near your squash and let it self-seed for seasons of free pest control.
The more beneficial insects you have, the fewer squash bugs will survive to damage your crop.
Other Tips When You Plant With Squash to Deter Squash Bugs
Companion planting is a big help, but it works best when you combine it with other good habits.
Here are a few extra tips to keep squash bugs from taking over.
1. Rotate Your Squash Crop Every Year
Squash bugs overwinter in garden debris and soil.
If you plant squash in the same spot every year, you are basically rolling out a welcome mat for them.
Rotate your squash to a new area of the garden each season to break their life cycle.
This simple step makes every companion plant you add work even better.
2. Keep the Garden Clean and Mulched
Remove old squash vines, leaves, and fruit at the end of the season.
Squash bugs hide in plant debris, so cleaning up removes their winter shelter.
Use a thick layer of mulch to keep soil moisture even and make it harder for squash bugs to find hiding spots.
Straw mulch is a great choice because it does not hold too much moisture against the stems.
3. Check Plants Early and Often
Even with the best companion plants, you should still inspect your squash regularly.
Look under leaves for clusters of bronze or red eggs.
Crush any eggs you find and drop adult squash bugs into a bucket of soapy water.
Catching them early keeps their numbers low so your companion plants can do their job.
So, What to Plant With Squash to Deter Squash Bugs?
Planting strong-smelling herbs, trap crops like nasturtiums, and flowers such as marigolds and borage with squash can help deter squash bugs.
These companion plants confuse the pests, attract beneficial insects, and make your squash patch less inviting overall.
Combine them with crop rotation, clean garden practices, and regular egg checks for the best results.
Now that you know what to plant with squash to deter squash bugs, you can build a smarter, more productive garden this season.
Happy planting!