Using plants as natural insect repellants?

[Ratman667]

I was talking to my grandmother about my garden. She suggested planting marigolds between the rows to repel insects. She said this is what they did growing up.

I did a little googling and came up with this. So, it seems there is some truth to it.

Has anyone here given this a try?

 

[Aji Chombo]

I grew some tomatos a few years back with French marigolds and I didn't see a single aphid on them all season long, so on that basis I'd say yes.

There is also the use of 'sacrificial' basil to lure aphids away from tomatos and peppers.

Oh, and the practice of planting carrots in between rows of garlic and onions to discourage vampires...and carrot fly.

 

[Skydiver]

Marigolds work. The only plants I had aphid troubles with last year were my container grown ones. All the ones in the ground, I planted marigolds between them.
The look great and they kept the aphids at bay, so yeah, I'm a fan of them.

 

[Ratman667]

I think I will give them a try then. After reading some on the link that I posted, I am going to give Fennel a try as well. I had a bad snail problem last year. The fennel along with some copper mesh or scouring pads should keep them at bay.

 

[Maligator]

My mom used to plant mint around the house to keep the ants away.