Why you should be “companion planting” in your garden
Companion planting is all about growing plants together that “enjoy” each other’s company and are mutually beneficial to their health. While companion planting isn’t a cure-all solution to problems in the garden, working out which plants grow well together will greatly improve the success of your garden. Here are just three reasons why you should consider taking up companion planting.
Plants that mask other plants
Certain plants emit strong odours that disguise the smell of other desirable plants, thereby confusing pests that would otherwise target your beloved plants. These plants act as decoys to distract pests from your valuable crops. Plant chives, onion or garlic near roses to deter thrips, aphids and other pests. Calendula will attract slugs and snails that would otherwise munch on your veggies.
Plants that attract valuable insects
Planting a mixture of flowers and herbs among your vegetable and fruit plants will encourage a helpful and healthy diversity of critters in the garden such as birds, pollinating insects, reptiles and beetles. Some insect-attracting plants include herbs like thyme, sage, coriander, chives and mint, and flowers such as cosmos, calendula, lavender, echinacea and marigold.
Plants that nurture other plants
Other companion plants improve the conditions for their neighbours. The best-known are the legume family (for example, peas and beans) that promote growth in nearby plants with their ability to capture nitrogen from the atmosphere. They also tend to be deep rooted which benefits neighbouring plants by promoting aeration of the soil. It’s about choosing plants that balance each other’s need.
To find out more about individual plants and their companions, talk to the professionals at your plant nursery.