Stop Planting These 12 Flowers — They Attract Pests Like Magnets

Gardening enthusiasts beware! While flowers add beauty and fragrance to any garden, some attract pests that can wreak havoc.

This list highlights 12 flowers known for drawing unwanted insects, making them less than ideal choices for your garden.

Discover the culprits and consider alternatives to keep your garden not only beautiful but also pest-free.

1. Marigold

Famed for their vibrant colors, marigolds are often included in gardens for their beauty. However, these bright blooms are notorious for attracting aphids. Aphids feed on the sap of marigolds, leading to distorted growth.

Gardeners often find their once healthy marigold patches overrun with these tiny pests. Consider pairing marigolds with a natural deterrent like mint to combat the aphid problem.

2. Nasturtium

Nasturtiums, with their peppery-scented flowers, are a favorite in salads and garnishes. Unfortunately, they are a magnet for the cabbage white butterfly.

These butterflies lay eggs on nasturtiums, leading to caterpillars munching away at the leaves. Despite their culinary appeal, nasturtiums can quickly become a feast for pests.

3. Petunia

Petunias, adored for their long-lasting blooms, unfortunately attract whiteflies. These tiny insects feed on the plant’s sap, leaving a sticky residue that attracts more pests.

Gardeners may notice their petunias wilting or yellowing, a telltale sign of whitefly infestation. While beautiful, petunias may require vigilant care to remain pest-free.

4. Hosta

Hostas, known for their lush foliage, are a slug’s dream come true. These mollusks are particularly fond of the broad leaves, often leaving unsightly trails and holes.

Gardeners often find themselves battling slugs to keep their hostas looking pristine. Despite their beauty, hostas require extra attention to prevent slug damage.

5. Zinnia

Zinnias, known for their cheerful blooms, are unfortunately susceptible to powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves.

While not a traditional pest, powdery mildew can attract other undesirable insects. Zinnias require regular monitoring for early signs of this common problem.

6. Dahlia

Dahlias are celebrated for their striking, multi-layered blooms. However, these beauties often attract spider mites.

These tiny pests create fine webbing and can cause leaves to yellow and drop. Dahlias demand regular inspection to prevent mite infestations from taking over.

7. Sunflower

Standing tall and proud, sunflowers are a staple in many gardens, but they attract grasshoppers. These pests feast on the petals and leaves, causing significant damage.

Gardeners must stay vigilant to keep sunflowers healthy and grasshopper-free. Despite their grandeur, sunflowers pose a challenge with pest control.

8. Cosmos

Cosmos, with their delicate petals, are beloved for creating airy gardens but attract thrips. These pests feed on the flowers, causing discoloration and deformation.

Cosmos require constant monitoring to ensure they look their best. Preventative measures are essential to keep thrips at bay.

9. Snapdragon

Snapdragons, with their unique blooms, are adored by many. Sadly, they are also adored by aphids, which can stunt growth and cause leaves to curl.

Regular care and natural deterrents are essential to maintain healthy snapdragons. Although stunning, these flowers come with their pest challenges.

10. Impatiens

Impatiens bring vibrant color to shady spots but are prone to downy mildew. This disease causes leaf yellowing and eventual collapse.

Gardeners must be vigilant and act quickly to mitigate damage. Despite their allure, impatiens present a constant battle against mildew.

11. Rose

Roses are synonymous with romance and beauty, yet they attract Japanese beetles. These pests devour leaves and petals, leaving skeleton-like remnants.

Consistent care is essential to prevent beetle infestations. Though captivating, roses need protection to maintain their appeal.

12. Lantana

Lantanas, with their vibrant blooms, are favored for attracting butterflies but also lure spider mites. These pests damage leaves, causing them to bronze and curl.

Regular inspections are key to preventing mite infestations. While lively, lantanas demand attention to thrive pest-free.