Companion Plants for Squash Bugs

If you've ever grown squash, you know how frustrating it can be to deal with squash bugs. These pests can quickly take over your garden and destroy your crop. While there are many ways to control squash bugs, one of the most effective methods is to use companion planting.

Companion planting is the practice of planting different crops together in order to improve growth, deter pests, and increase yields. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for squash bugs and how they can help protect your squash.

The Best Companion Plants for Squash Bugs

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a great companion plant for squash because they repel squash bugs and other pests. These flowers have a strong odor that bugs don't like, and they also contain compounds that make them unappetizing. Plant nasturtiums around the perimeter of your squash patch, or intersperse them throughout your garden.

How to Plant Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are easy to grow from seed, and they prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Plant the seeds directly in the ground after the last frost date, and space them about 12 inches apart. Water regularly, but don't overwater, as this can cause the plants to rot.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another great companion plant for squash. Like nasturtiums, they have a strong odor that repels bugs, but they also have the added benefit of attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. These insects eat squash bugs and other pests, which can help keep your squash healthy.

How to Plant Marigolds

Marigolds are also easy to grow from seed, and they prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Plant the seeds directly in the ground after the last frost date, and space them about 8 inches apart. Water regularly, but don't overwater, as this can cause the plants to rot.

Borage

Borage is an herb that has a long history of use as a companion plant. It attracts beneficial insects like bees and wasps, which can help pollinate your squash and control pests. Borage also contains compounds that repel squash bugs and other pests.

How to Plant Borage

Borage is easy to grow from seed, and it prefers full sun and well-draining soil. Plant the seeds directly in the ground after the last frost date, and space them about 12 inches apart. Water regularly, but don't overwater, as this can cause the plants to rot.

Radishes

Radishes are a great companion plant for squash because they deter squash bugs and other pests. They also grow quickly, which means you can plant them between your squash rows and harvest them before your squash gets too big.

How to Plant Radishes

Radishes are easy to grow from seed, and they prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Plant the seeds directly in the ground after the last frost date, and space them about 2 inches apart. Water regularly, but don't overwater, as this can cause the plants to rot.

Beans

Beans are a legume that fix nitrogen in the soil, which can help improve the health of your squash. They also attract beneficial insects like bees and wasps, which can help pollinate your squash and control pests.

How to Plant Beans

Beans prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Plant the seeds directly in the ground after the last frost date, and space them about 6 inches apart. Water regularly, but don't overwater, as this can cause the plants to rot.

Other Tips for Controlling Squash Bugs

While companion planting is a great way to control squash bugs, there are other things you can do to keep these pests at bay. Here are some tips:

Handpick Squash Bugs

One of the most effective ways to control squash bugs is to handpick them off your plants. Look for adult squash bugs and their eggs on the undersides of leaves and remove them by hand.

Cover Your Plants

You can also cover your squash plants with row covers to prevent squash bugs from laying their eggs on your plants. Just be sure to remove the covers once your plants flowering so that bees can pollinate them.

Mulch Your Plants

Mulching your squash plants with organic matter like straw or leaves can help deter squash bugs and other pests. It can also help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds.

Rotate Your Crops

Finally, rotating your crops every year can help break the cycle of squash bugs and other pests. Don't plant squash in the same spot two years in a row, and try planting different crops like tomatoes or peppers in between your squash.



Companion planting is a great way to control squash bugs and keep your squash plants healthy. By planting nasturtiums, marigolds, borage, radishes, and beans around your squash, you can deter pests and attract beneficial insects. Remember to also handpick squash bugs, cover your plants, mulch your soil, and rotate your crops to keep these pests at bay.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my squash plants have squash bugs?

You can tell if your squash plants have squash bugs by looking for small, brown bugs on the undersides of leaves. You may also see their eggs, which are laid in clusters on the leaves.

2. What is the best time of day to handpick squash bugs?

The best time of day to handpick squash bugs is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the bugs are less active.

3. Can I use pesticides to control squash bugs?

While pesticides can be effective against squash bugs, they can also harm beneficial insects and contaminate your soil. It's best to use companion planting and other natural methods of pest control first.

4. How often should I water my squash plants?

Squash plants need about an inch of water per week. Water them deeply once a week, or more frequently if you live in a hot, dry climate.

5. How long does it take for squash plants to mature?

Squash plants typically take 50-60 days to mature from seed, depending on the variety.