Protecting the plant from basic Bugs

I personally would stay away from anything artificial to keep them away just to make sure none of it ends up in the bud. It's a bit annoying but I see it as a trade-off for growing outside. If you don't like them aesthetically I would recommend just snipping them away and let the plant focus it's growing on the proper leaves. If it starts happening on more than 2-3 more leaves I would look around your grow site for a possible source (an ant hill, etc.) and then dealing with it away from the plant! Hope this helps!

Companion planting works great! I grow basil near my plants and that seems to keep most flying insects away. There is other plants like mint, marigolds, lavender. There is more you can google.

Black soap or Marseille Soap with water in a spray.