A well-designed garden is not only beautiful or walkable, but also full of clever ideas like companion planting.
Some crops can help each other grow better, so you should use this to your advantage.
Here are some useful ideas for you.
Complementing Pest Control
Some plants have an amazing ability to naturally repel pests, while others attract beneficial insects that eat garden pests.
For example, planting marigolds alongside your vegetables can deter harmful nematodes and aphids.
Similarly, attracting ladybugs by planting dill or fennel can help control aphid populations.
Enhancing Nutrient Uptake
Certain plants have the ability to improve the nutrient uptake of neighboring plants.
For instance, legumes like peas and beans have nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their roots that enrich the soil with this essential nutrient.
Planting nitrogen-loving crops like leafy greens or corn near legumes allows them to benefit from the nitrogen enrichment.
Providing Shade and Support
Taller plants can provide shade and support for shorter or more delicate ones.
For instance, planting sunflowers or trellising pole beans can offer shade to lettuce or spinach during hot summer months.
Attracting Pollinators
By including flowers that attract pollinators, you can ensure better pollination and increase the yield of your fruiting plants.
Planting bee-friendly flowers like lavender, borage, or cosmos throughout your garden can create a buzzing haven for these beneficial insects.
