What role do Asters, black-eyed Susans, and coneflowers serve near vulnerable crops?
Answer
They act as natural buffers against common mammal pests like deer and rabbits.
Asters are frequently suggested for use in integrated pest management strategies because they possess characteristics, such as scent or texture, that deter various mammal pests. The text places asters alongside black-eyed Susans and lupines specifically because these plants are recommended for planting near vulnerable crops to help repel animals such as deer, rabbits, and chipmunks. This suggests that squirrels might also avoid asters due to similar sensory cues, classifying them as a generally safe plant choice rather than a desirable food source, unlike classic targets such as tulip bulbs.

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