What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Nasturtiums and marigolds are the two plants most clearly associated in Extension guidance with fewer squash bug populations or less damage. But “repel” overstates what has been proved: neither is established as a reliable five-plant fix, and a Blue Hubbard squash trap crop works by attracting bugs, not driving them away. Use planting as one part of a plan that also includes scouting, egg removal and garden cleanup.
What plants repel squash bugs?
Extension sources identify nasturtiums and marigolds as companion plants associated with reduced squash bug populations or damage. That is a narrower claim than saying they reliably repel squash bugs. A 2016 review says interplanting or companion planting with repellent plants needs further investigation, and describes the nasturtium finding as a preliminary on-farm observation based on unpublished data. No published efficacy percentage is established in these sources.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
| Plant | How it may help | What the evidence supports |
|---|---|---|
| Nasturtium | Companion plant | Minnesota Extension says research supports its use to help reduce squash bug populations. The 2016 review characterizes a cited observation as preliminary and based on unpublished data. |
| Marigold | Companion plant | University of Maryland Extension associates it with reduced squash bug damage; Minnesota Extension reports reduced damage in an Iowa study involving nasturtiums and marigolds. |
| Blue Hubbard squash | Trap crop | Can draw squash bugs away from less-preferred crops, but must be monitored and managed. It attracts bugs rather than repelling them. |
| Mint, chives, garlic, onions, tansy, radishes and bee balm | Traditional companion suggestions | Not established by the cited Extension guidance as proven squash bug repellents. |
Sources: University of Maryland Extension, University of Minnesota Extension, and the 2016 peer-reviewed review.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
How to use nasturtiums and marigolds with squash
Nasturtiums
Plant nasturtiums near squash as a companion, while treating them as a possible aid rather than dependable protection. Continue checking squash leaves for egg clusters and bugs; the evidence does not establish a particular spacing, planting density, or guaranteed level of control.
#1 Best Overall
- 5 ZUCChINI & SUMMER SQUASH VARIETIES - Includes Black Beauty, Golden, Round, and Grey zucchini plus Straight Neck yellow squash (Cucurbita pepo) for diverse summer harvests
- FAST GROWING SUMMER HARVESTS - Produces tender zucchini and squash quickly in warm weather; consistent harvesting encourages continued fruit production throughout the season
- EASY TO GROW - Sow your zucchini seeds after the last frost in full sun once soil reaches 70 degrees F; these seeds have reliable germination and yield harvests in as little as 45 to 60 days
- HIGH YIELD COMPACT PLANTS - Bush and semi-vining growth fits raised beds and rows; steady production supports home gardeners looking for dependable seasonal food supply
- FAMILY OWNED USA SMALL BUSINESS – heirloom non-GMO seeds from Survival Garden Seeds, a trusted American brand; always open-pollinated, untreated, and quality tested for garden success
Marigolds
Marigolds are another companion option associated with lower damage in Extension guidance. The cited sources do not establish a specific marigold variety, spacing, or planting schedule for squash bug control.
Can Blue Hubbard squash protect your main crop?
Blue Hubbard squash can be planted around the perimeter of a garden as a trap crop: its purpose is to attract squash bugs away from less-preferred cucurbits. Virginia Cooperative Extension describes trap crops as more attractive plants that are commonly established a couple of weeks before the main crop, then monitored so pests can be controlled. Minnesota Extension likewise cautions that a Blue Hubbard trap crop still needs management, including egg removal or appropriate control.
Rank #2
- 4 WINTER SQUASH SEED VARIETIES - Includes butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata), acorn squash (Cucurbita pepo), spaghetti squash (Cucurbita pepo), and pink banana squash (Cucurbita maxima) seeds for growing in your vegetable garden
- HIGH-YIELD FOOD PRODUCTION - Grow reliable winter squash with strong yields per plant; this four pack seed mix is excellent for traditional gardens and raised bed growing
- LONG-TERM STORAGE CROPS - Thick rinds and dense flesh allow winter squash harvests to store for months; stock your pantry and reduce your reliance on store-bought produce
- EASY TO GROW - Thrives in full sun with simple care; open-pollinated heirloom types allow seed saving for future seasons and sustainable gardening year after year
- FAMILY OWNED USA SMALL BUSINESS – Heirloom non-GMO seeds from Survival Garden Seeds, a trusted American brand; always open-pollinated, untreated, and quality tested for garden success
This tactic takes perimeter space and creates a place where bugs may gather. Scout the trap crop and remove egg masses or manage the insects; otherwise, it can harbor pests rather than protect the rest of the planting. Minnesota Extension’s squash bug guidance and Virginia Cooperative Extension’s trap-crop guidance explain the approach.
Why planting alone may not control squash bugs
Squash bugs feed mainly on squash and pumpkins, and can also attack cucumbers. Adults overwinter in sheltered places such as plant debris, rocks and areas around buildings. Females lay egg clusters on the undersides of leaves, while disturbed bugs may hide beneath leaves. Those habits make regular inspection and seasonal cleanup useful whether or not companion plants are growing nearby.
Rank #3
- 5 VARIETY SQUASH SEED COLLECTION - Contains 5 packets of heirloom squash seed varieties: Round Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo), Yellow Straightneck (Cucurbita pepo), Spaghetti (Cucurbita pepo), Butternut (Cucurbita moschata), Acorn (Cucurbita pepo)
- SUMMER AND WINTER SQUASH - Easy to grow in your outdoor vegetable garden by directing sow after last frost in full sun, 1 inch deep, 24-36 inch spacing; plants thrive in USDA zones 3-10 with warm soil and consistent watering
- HIGH YIELD HARVESTS - Productive vining plants deliver abundant squash with steady yields; harvest summer types early for tenderness and winter squash when skin has thickened for longer storage
- GREAT FOR STORAGE & FOOD SECURITY - Winter squash stores for months after harvest; ideal for long-term pantry use, preserving, and reducing reliance on store-bought produce
- FAMILY OWNED USA SMALL BUSINESS – heirloom non-GMO seeds from Survival Garden Seeds, a trusted American brand; always open-pollinated, untreated, and quality tested for garden success
Practical controls to use alongside planting
- Clean up shelter: Remove plant debris and other garden hiding places at the end of the season.
- Inspect leaf undersides: Look for egg clusters and crush or remove them when found.
- Hand-remove bugs: Pick off adults and nymphs when the garden is small enough to manage.
- Use overnight shelters: Place boards or newspaper near plants, then check underneath in the morning and remove gathered bugs. Florida IFAS also describes shelter boards as a way to make bugs easier to find and crush.
Minnesota Extension says insecticides are normally not required in home gardens. For more on identification and management, see its squash bug guidance and Florida IFAS’s squash bug guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- CLASSIC HEIRLOOM ZUCCHINI SEED VARIETY - Black Beauty zucchini (Cucurbita pepo) produces smooth dark green fruits with dependable yields; a proven summer squash for consistent garden performance
- FAST GROWING AND HIGH YIELD - Black Beauty produces quickly in warm weather with harvests in about 50 to 60 days; frequent picking encourages continuous fruit production throughout the season
- EASY TO GROW - Direct sow after last frost in full sun with soil above 70°F; Black Beauty zucchini thrives in well-drained soil with consistent moisture during early growth stages
- COMPACT BUSH PLANT HABIT - This zucchini's bushy growth fits raised beds and rows without long vines; it's easier to manage, monitor, and harvest in home gardens and smaller growing spaces
- FAMILY OWNED USA SMALL BUSINESS – Heirloom non-GMO seeds from Survival Garden Seeds, a trusted American brand; always open-pollinated, untreated, and quality tested for garden success
Rank #4
- Beautiful - Large premium packets of Waltham Butternut Squash (Cucurbita pepo) seeds. Prolific vines produce several butternut squashes that reach 4-6 pounds and 9-10" long. Fruits store exceptionally well and feature cylindrical necks with small seed cavities and sweet orange flesh. Minimum of 5g per packet (about 32 seeds).
- Productive - Squash germinates in 5-10 days when soil temps are 65-75°F. Plant 1” deep and space 36” apart in an area with full sun. This variety will grow 12-18” tall with a spread of 24-36”. Fruits will mature in 85-100 days, plant in USDA zones 3-9.
- Good Eats - This squash has a rich, sweet flavor and can be eaten roasted or pureed into a classic winter soup. This squash can be a great companion plant to cover the soil around tall plants, it helps retain moisture in the soil.
- Easy to Grow - Instructions included on each packet. Plus, we are available to answer all your questions. If these seeds don’t germinate, we will happily make it right for you.
- Safe and Sustainable - Our operation is fully solar powered, and Sow Right Seeds has taken the Safe Seed Pledge to sell only fresh Non-GMO heirloom seeds for you and your family.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
