Not only professional farmers, but also many gardeners use companion planting for its benefits.
This method can benefit not only some plants, but also your garden's general health and its fertility.
Let's find out why you should probably use it too.
Natural Pest Control
Companion planting helps control pests naturally by using certain plants that repel insects.
For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes can deter nematodes.
Improved Soil Health
Some plants work together to enhance soil fertility.
Legumes, like beans, can fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting neighboring plants with their nutrient-rich presence.
Enhanced Crop Growth
Certain plant combinations can promote better growth.
Tall plants, like corn, provide shade to shorter plants, helping them thrive in a more balanced environment.
Maximized Garden Space
Companion planting allows efficient use of space.
Plants with different growth habits can be strategically placed to make the most of the available area.
Attracting Beneficial Insects
Some plants attract beneficial insects that help with pollination and pest control.
For instance, planting flowers like calendula can attract pollinators to your vegetable garden.
Disease Prevention
Certain plants release compounds that can help prevent diseases.
Growing onions alongside carrots, for example, may help deter pests that commonly affect carrots.
Natural Weed Suppression
Companion planting can aid in weed control.
Plants with dense foliage can act as a natural mulch, shading the soil and reducing weed growth.
Previously, we talked about growing juniper.