Companion planting advice

What plant pairings have worked well for you in terms of pest resistance or growth?

I’ve had great success planting marigolds alongside my tomatoes. Marigolds are known to deter nematodes and some harmful insects, which helps keep the tomatoes healthy. Additionally, pairing basil with tomatoes not only enhances the flavor of the fruit but also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs, which can help control aphid populations. Another effective combo is planting beans with corn; the beans fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting the corn’s growth.

I’ve found that planting garlic with roses works wonders for pest control. Garlic can help repel aphids and other pests that often target roses, leading to healthier blooms. Additionally, if you’re looking to improve your vegetable garden, consider pairing carrots with onions. The strong scent of onions can mask the smell of carrots, helping to deter carrot flies while the carrots can benefit from the space the onions occupy.

Another great combination I’ve found is planting cucumbers with nasturtiums. Nasturtiums can act as a trap crop, attracting aphids away from the cucumbers while also repelling some pests like cucumber beetles. Plus, they add a splash of color to the garden and their edible flowers are a nice bonus in salads. Additionally, if you’re growing peppers, try planting them alongside oregano; the oregano can help deter pests and the two plants thrive in similar conditions.

I’ve had good luck with planting strawberries alongside spinach. The spinach provides some shade for the strawberries, which helps them thrive in warmer weather while also deterring weeds. Additionally, I find that planting borage near strawberries not only attracts pollinators but also improves the flavor of the berries and can help repel pests like the strawberry weevil. This combo has really boosted my berry harvest!

I’ve had great results planting dill with cucumbers. Dill attracts beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and hoverflies, which can help keep harmful pests at bay. Plus, it provides a nice contrast in height and texture in the garden. Another effective pairing is planting beets with brassicas like kale or cabbage; the beets can help loosen the soil around the roots, allowing for better growth, while the brassicas benefit from the shade provided by the beet foliage. This combo has really helped my garden thrive!