“They are more than just flavor boosters for your cookingthey’re also natural defenders in your garden.”

Want more gardening tips?

“The smell of mintwards off ants and aphids,” Spoonemore explains.

raised bed gardens

The Spruce / Randi Rhoades

“Plus, this herb is easy to grow, and makes your garden smell amazing.”

Like rosemary and mint, the scent is a natural bug repellent, effective on a variety of insects.

“Nasturtiums make a great trap crop,” Chapman says.

closeup of rosemary

The Spruce / Randi Rhoades

“Pests like aphids and cabbage white caterpillars will eat your nasturtiums rather than your precious vegetables.”

Research companion planting and organic pest management tips when you’re adding crops to your garden.

basil bunches

The Spruce / K. Dave

mint growing in a container

The Spruce / Cori Sears

Thyme herb plant closeup of leaves

The Spruce / Almar Creative

Harvested chives in small woven basket next to garden plants closeup

The Spruce / Randi Rhoades

Marigold

Getty Images /wulingyun

Nasturtium with orange flowers

Getty Images/Nadya So