Planting and harvesting on time will help prevent many garden vegetables from being damaged by insects. Sweet corn planted early may avoid the ravages of the corn earworm and fall armyworm, especially if harvested prior to July 15 in the Coastal Plain. Early squash may reach maturity before the pickleworm arrives. Destroy crop refuse after harvest by working it into the soil or putting it in a compost pile. Plant a garden large enough to allow for some insect damage and still provide for your enjoyment.
Many insects only enjoy one type of plant.
For example, the cucumber beetle feasts on little other than cucumbers, squash, and melons. Plant these crops in with the corn or beans. Interplant your different cole crops such as broccoli, collards, and cabbage. This may reduce damage from the cabbage looper. Other insects are not extremely mobile and enjoy having their favorite foods close together.