May E-Clippings Article

Companion Plants

Just like people often perform better in good company, there are some plants that help other plants thrive.  Companion planting is the concept of planting different plants near each other because of the benefits they provide.

Experience shows us that using companion planting throughout the landscape is an important part of integrated pest management. In essence companion planting helps bring a balanced eco-system to your landscape, allowing nature to do its job! 

There are many varieties of herbs and flowers. that can be used for companion plants. Be open to experimenting and find what works for you.

Companion planting can combine beauty and purpose to give you an enjoyable, healthy environment. Have fun, let your imagination soar. There are many ways you can find to incorporate these useful plants in your garden, flower beds and outdoor living space.

Marigolds are one of the most friendly plant companions.  Keeps soil free of bad nematodes; supposed to discourage many insects. Plant freely throughout the garden. The marigolds you choose must be a scented variety for them to work. One down side is that marigolds do attract spider mites and slugs.

Nasturtium is an excellent companion for many plants. It is a companion to radishes, cabbage family plants, deterring aphids, squash bugs, striped pumpkin beetles, and improving growth and flavor. Plant as a barrier around tomatoes, cabbage, cucumbers, and under fruit trees.   It likes poor soil with low moisture and no fertilizer.  The leaves, flowers and seeds of nasturtiums are all edible and wonderful in salads!

Petunias repel the asparagus beetle, leafhoppers, certain aphids, tomato worms, Mexican bean beetles and general garden pests. A good companion to tomatoes, but plant everywhere. The leaves can be used in a tea to make a potent bug spray.

Pretty zinnias attract hummingbirds which eat whiteflies. Alternately the pastel varieties of zinnias can be used as a trap crop for Japanese beetles. All zinnias attract bees and other insect pollinators.

Basil does well when planted with tomatoes to improve growth and flavor. Basil also does well with peppers, oregano, asparagus and petunias. It is said to repel flies and mosquitoes. Do not plant near rue or sage.

Dahlias are beautiful, tuberous annuals that can have up to dinner plate size flowers and repels nematodes!

Some plants help each other by giving off chemicals and micronutrients that their friend needs.  Here’s some vegetable garden combinations that work well:

Tomatoes with cabbage, carrots, celery, parsley and onions.

Peas with beans, corn, carrots, cucumbers, radishes and turnips.

Spinach with celery, eggplant, and cauliflower.

Lettuce with carrots, cucumbers, onions and radishes.