What companion plants keep bugs away from cabbage?

Companion planting is a great way to naturally deter pests from your cabbage plants. When it comes to repelling bugs, there are several companion plants that work wonders. Let me share with you some of my personal experiences and suggestions.

1. Sage and Rosemary:
These two culinary herbs not only add a delightful aroma to your garden, but they also act as excellent companions for cabbage. Sage and rosemary are especially effective in deterring cabbage moths, which can wreak havoc on your cabbage plants. The strong scent of these herbs confuses and repels the moths, preventing them from laying their eggs on your cabbage.

2. Chamomile:
Chamomile is not only a soothing herbal tea, but it also has benefits when planted near cabbage. This beautiful, daisy-like flower enhances the flavor of cabbage and helps improve its overall health. Chamomile releases sulfur, potassium, and calcium into the soil, which are essential nutrients for cabbage. Additionally, the scent of chamomile acts as a natural deterrent for pests, keeping them away from your cabbage plants.

3. Nasturtiums:
Nasturtiums are vibrant, edible flowers that make a wonderful companion for cabbage. These flowers are known for their strong scent, which repels a wide range of pests, including aphids, whiteflies, and cabbage worms. Planting nasturtiums near your cabbage acts as a natural trap, attracting these pests away from your precious cabbage plants.

4. Dill:
Dill is not only a flavorful herb but also a beneficial companion for cabbage. It attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies, which prey on cabbage pests like aphids and caterpillars. By attracting these helpful insects, dill helps maintain a natural balance in your garden and reduces the risk of pest infestations on your cabbage.

5. Celery:
Planting celery alongside cabbage can provide protection against cabbage worms and aphids. The strong scent of celery acts as a repellent for these pests, keeping them away from your cabbage plants. Additionally, celery’s tall and leafy growth can provide shade and act as a physical barrier, preventing pests from reaching your cabbage plants.

6. Onions and Garlic:
Onions and garlic are well-known for their pungent aroma, which repels a wide range of pests. Planting them near cabbage can deter pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and cabbage loopers. Both onions and garlic also have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help protect cabbage from diseases.

Companion planting with sage, rosemary, chamomile, nasturtiums, dill, celery, onions, and garlic can help keep bugs away from your cabbage plants. These plants not only repel pests but also enhance the flavor and health of your cabbage. Incorporating these companions in your garden can create a harmonious and pest-resistant environment for your cabbage plants to thrive.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.