At the same time, it would provide many of the benefits of the traditional hedge row. Plan an insectary border for successive bloom from early spring through fall, providing nectar throughout the season. This will not only satisfy the needs of many beneficial insects, but also provide color in the garden. Also, any pests in the border may become hosts for beneficial insects should prey levels be low in the garden you are trying to protect. Including plants of different heights can be very important.
Ground beetles require the cover provided by low-growing plants.
Lacewings lay their eggs in shady, protected areas, so providing such places near crop plants is a good idea. Selective weeding can encourage beneficial insects by leaving potential food sources in the garden. Allowing certain volunteers to remain in the garden is somewhat like random companion planting. Just know what weeds or volunteers are helpful. Tiny flowers produced in large quantity are much more valuable than a single, large bloom.