- Companion planting refers to the practice of planting a variety of types of plants in close proximity to serve a variety of purposes. Mint plants like catnip and peppermint help repel pests like aphids, for example, because the insects find the odor of mint plants unpleasant and will avoid the areas in which they are planted. Other purposes of companion planting include weed control and the use of certain plants that help add nutrients to the soil.
- Both geranium flowers and marigold plants help repel spider mites. Planting these plants helps keep spider mites away from the garden by creating odors unpleasant to the mites. Planting clover and goldenrod attracts insects that will eat the spider mites, according to Rex Research. Similarly, buckwheat flowers attract predatory wasps and insects that control mite populations, according to GH Organics.
- Some types of vegetable plants also help keep spider mites away from the garden. These have the added benefit of providing food for a gardener as well as keeping the garden more healthy throughout the growing season. Vegetable plants that repel spider mites include soybeans and garlic, as well as coriander and parsley. Coriander and parsley leaves can also be used to make a liquid spray that repels spider mites, according to GH Organics.
- Companion planting limits the need for pesticides to control the population of spider mites. Pesticides damage the environment by adding chemicals to the soil, water supply and atmosphere. Additionally, insects like spider mites quickly evolve a resistance to pesticides, calling for stronger and stronger applications of chemicals. Pesticides can also kill beneficial insects. Investing in companion planting reduces or eliminates the need for harmful chemicals, keeping both the environment and the garden stronger and healthier over time.
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