As spring begins, it’s the perfect time to watch your garden come back to life. With flowers blooming and plants thriving, the season is a gardener’s dream. However, spring also signals the return of garden pests, and these creatures can quickly become a nightmare, chomping away at your beautiful crops.
But don’t worry! There’s a simple solution to help protect your vegetables from these pesky critters. Garden expert Jamie Walton, who shares his knowledge on Instagram under the handle @nettlesandpetals, recommends planting one specific flower to help keep pests away.
“If you only grow one flower for your vegetable garden this year, make it a nasturtium,” Jamie advises in a video posted on his Instagram account.
Nasturtiums, with their bright and colorful blooms, are not only beautiful but also edible. These flowers are perfect for adding a peppery twist to your salads. But here’s the best part—they can also help protect your crops!
These cheerful flowers bloom throughout the summer and into the fall, creating a natural barrier between pests and your crops. Nasturtiums attract unwanted garden pests like green and black flies and cabbage white butterflies. While this may sound bad for the flowers, Jamie explains that nasturtiums are “sacrificial crops,” meaning pests are drawn to them instead of your vegetables.
Planting nasturtiums nearby your crops can keep harmful insects away and protect your vegetables, allowing them to grow strong and healthy without the threat of pests. This simple gardening trick is a natural, effective way to safeguard your plants without using harsh chemicals.
So, if you’re looking for an easy and eco-friendly way to protect your garden this spring, consider adding some nasturtiums to your vegetable plot. Not only will they beautify your garden, but they’ll also help keep it safe from pests, making your gardening experience more enjoyable and fruitful.
