Learn about companion planting: Plants helping plants

If you want your garden to thrive, you should use the natural abilities of some plants to help other plants.

Companion planting is a gardening practice that involves strategically planting different crops together to enhance growth, repel pests, improve pollination, and promote overall garden health. 

Here are some key rules of companion planting.

Complementary Growth Habits

Pair plants with different growth habits to optimize space. 

For example, tall plants can provide shade for shorter ones, while vining plants can cover the ground and reduce weed growth.

Pest Control

Some plants naturally repel pests or attract beneficial insects. 

Planting pest-repellent plants near susceptible crops can help deter pests. 

For example, marigolds can repel nematodes, and nasturtiums can attract aphids away from other plants.

Scent and Fragrance

Strong-scented herbs and flowers can mask the smell of crops that attract pests. 

For instance, planting aromatic herbs like rosemary, basil, or mint can deter insects from nearby vegetables.

Trap Cropping

Plant sacrificial crops that pests prefer near your main crops. 

This lures pests away from valuable plants and toward the trap crops. 

This technique helps protect the main crops from infestations.

Complementary Nutrient Needs

Pair plants with different nutrient requirements. 

Nitrogen-fixing plants like legumes can enrich the soil with nitrogen, benefiting nearby crops with higher nitrogen needs.

Allelopathy

Some plants release chemicals that inhibit the growth of certain other plants. 

Avoid planting crops with strong allelopathic effects together. 

For example, tomatoes release substances that can inhibit the growth of beans.
 

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• companions
• plants
• planting
• gardening
• tips
• 4 September 2023

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