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Companion Planting

Chamomile: The Ultimate Companion Plant for Your Garden

by Gregory August 6, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Chamomile: A Versatile Companion Plant for Your Garden

Chamomile is a well-known herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. But did you know that chamomile is also a great companion plant for your garden? Companion planting is the practice of planting different species of plants together to benefit each other. Chamomile is a particularly good companion plant because it has a number of beneficial properties that can help your other plants thrive.

Benefits of Companion Planting with Chamomile

Chamomile has a number of properties that make it a beneficial companion plant, including:

Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal: Chamomile contains compounds that can help to protect plants from bacterial and fungal infections. This can be especially beneficial for plants that are prone to these types of infections, such as zinnias, petunias, and tomatoes.
Growth and flavor enhancement: Chamomile can help to improve the growth and flavor of many plants. This is thought to be due to the fact that chamomile contains nutrients that are beneficial to plants, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Pest deterrence: Chamomile attracts beneficial insects, such as hoverflies and ladybugs, which can help to control pests in your garden. Chamomile also has a strong scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant, which can help to keep them away from your plants.

Companion Planting Guide for Chamomile

Chamomile is a versatile companion plant that can be grown with a wide variety of other plants. Here are some tips for companion planting with chamomile:

Flowers: Chamomile is a good companion plant for many types of flowers, including zinnias, petunias, snapdragons, and verbena. These flowers are all susceptible to fungal problems, so chamomile can help to protect them from these infections.
Vegetables: Chamomile is also a good companion plant for many types of vegetables, including tomatoes, potatoes, cabbage, onions, and beans. These vegetables are all prone to pests and diseases, so chamomile can help to protect them from these problems.
Herbs: Chamomile is a good companion plant for many types of herbs, including mint and basil. These herbs are all known for their strong flavors, and chamomile can help to improve their taste and scent.

How to Use Chamomile as a Companion Plant

Chamomile is easy to grow and can be used as a companion plant in a variety of ways. Here are a few tips:

Plant chamomile around the base of other plants. This will help to protect the plants from pests and diseases.
Make a chamomile tea and spray it on your plants. This will help to prevent fungal infections and improve the growth and flavor of your plants.
Add chamomile clippings to your compost pile. This will help to add nutrients to your compost and improve the soil in your garden.

Conclusion

Chamomile is a versatile and beneficial companion plant that can help your other plants thrive. By following the tips in this guide, you can use chamomile to create a healthy and productive garden.

Vegetable Gardening

Companion Planting for Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide to Maximize Yields and Garden Health

by Gregory August 3, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Companion Planting for Bountiful Tomato Harvests: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Tomatoes are beloved vegetables for home gardeners, but achieving a bountiful harvest can be challenging without the right companion plants. Companion planting, the practice of growing multiple plants together for mutual benefits, can significantly enhance tomato growth, yield, and overall garden health. This article delves into the world of tomato companion planting, providing a comprehensive guide for 7th graders and beyond.

Benefits of Companion Planting for Tomatoes

Companion planting offers numerous advantages for tomato plants, including:

Increased yields: By attracting beneficial insects and deterring pests, companion plants create a favorable environment for tomatoes to thrive, resulting in higher fruit production.
Pest and disease control: Certain companion plants release scents that repel insects and emit compounds that inhibit the growth of harmful fungi and bacteria.
Aid in pollination: Flowering companions attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which aid in tomato pollination and fruit set.
Offering refuge for beneficial insects: Companion plants provide shelter and food for beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on pests that threaten tomato plants.

Choosing Compatible Plants for Tomatoes

Selecting suitable companion plants for tomatoes is crucial for maximizing benefits. Here are some of the best choices:

Vegetables: Onions, garlic, chives, peppers, carrots, cucumbers, and asparagus are excellent companions for tomatoes, offering various advantages such as pest deterrence, improved growth, and nutrient availability.
Herbs: Borage, parsley, mint, and basil are beneficial herbs for tomatoes, repelling pests, enhancing flavor, and promoting overall plant health.
Flowers: Marigolds, nasturtiums, and zinnias are attractive flowers that not only beautify the garden but also deter pests and attract pollinators.

Plants to Avoid Planting with Tomatoes

While many plants benefit tomato growth, some should be avoided due to their negative effects:

Brassicas: Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower can stunt tomato growth and attract pests.
Corn: Corn attracts tomato fruitworms and corn earworms, posing a threat to tomato harvests.
Kohlrabi: Kohlrabi can inhibit tomato growth.
Potatoes: Planting tomatoes and potatoes together increases the risk of potato blight disease.
Fennel: Fennel inhibits the growth of tomatoes and many other plants.

Planning Your Tomato Companion Planting

To optimize companion planting, consider the following tips:

Choose a variety of companion plants: Select companions from different plant families to provide a range of benefits and minimize the risk of disease buildup.
Plant in close proximity: Plant companion plants near tomatoes to maximize their impact.
Rotate companion plants: Avoid planting the same companion plants next to tomatoes year after year to prevent soil depletion.
Monitor your plants: Observe your tomato plants and companion plants regularly for signs of stress or pest infestations.

Conclusion

Companion planting is a valuable technique that can significantly enhance tomato growth and yields. By carefully selecting compatible plants and avoiding harmful companions, gardeners can create a thriving ecosystem that supports their tomato plants and promotes a healthy and productive garden. Embrace the power of companion planting and enjoy the rewards of bountiful tomato harvests!

Vegetable Gardening

Intercropping: The Ultimate Guide to Growing More in Less Space

by Gregory July 29, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Intercropping: A Guide to Growing More in Less Space

What is Intercropping?

Intercropping, also known as interplanting, is a gardening technique that involves growing two or more different plant species together in the same space. This technique has been used for centuries by farmers and gardeners to maximize crop yields and improve soil health.

Intercropping can be done in a variety of ways, but the most common methods are row planting and mixed intercropping. In row planting, different plant species are grown in alternating rows. In mixed intercropping, different plant species are grown together in a more random pattern.

Benefits of Intercropping

There are many benefits to intercropping, including:

Increased crop yields: Intercropping can help to increase crop yields by up to 30%. This is because intercropping creates a more diverse and productive ecosystem in the garden.
Improved soil health: Intercropping can help to improve soil health by increasing organic matter content, reducing erosion, and improving water infiltration.
Reduced disease and pests: Intercropping can help to reduce disease and pests by creating a more diverse and resilient ecosystem in the garden.
More efficient use of space: Intercropping can help to make more efficient use of space in the garden by allowing you to grow more crops in a smaller area.

How to Plan an Intercropping Garden

Planning an intercropping garden is essential for success. Here are a few things to consider when planning your garden:

Choose compatible plant species. Not all plant species are compatible with each other. Some plants, such as tomatoes and peppers, can release chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants. Do some research to find out which plant species are compatible with each other.
Consider plant spacing. When planting different plant species together, it is important to consider their spacing needs. Some plants, such as corn, require more space than others, such as lettuce. Make sure to give each plant species enough space to grow and thrive.
Use companion planting. Companion planting is a technique that involves planting different plant species together that benefit each other. For example, planting tomatoes with basil can help to repel pests.

Intercropping Techniques

There are a variety of intercropping techniques that you can use in your garden. Here are a few of the most common techniques:

Row planting: In row planting, different plant species are grown in alternating rows. This technique is best suited for plants that have similar growth habits and nutrient requirements.
Mixed intercropping: In mixed intercropping, different plant species are grown together in a more random pattern. This technique is best suited for plants that have different growth habits and nutrient requirements.
Relay planting: Relay planting is a technique that involves planting a second crop in the same space as a first crop that has already been harvested. This technique is best suited for plants that have different maturity dates.

Tips for Successful Intercropping

Here are a few tips for successful intercropping:

Start small. Don’t try to intercrop too many different plant species in your garden all at once. Start with a few compatible species and gradually add more as you gain experience.
Be patient. Intercropping takes time to master. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Keep experimenting and learning, and you will eventually be successful.
Have fun! Intercropping is a great way to learn more about gardening and grow more food in your garden. So have fun and experiment with different plant combinations.

Vegetable Gardening

Protect Your Carrots from Carrot Fly: 10 Easy and Effective Ways

by Gregory June 9, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Protect Your Carrots from Carrot Fly

Carrot fly is a common pest that can ruin your carrot harvest. But don’t worry, there are many ways to keep them away and protect your carrots.

Choose Resistant Varieties

Start by choosing carrot varieties that are resistant to carrot fly. Some good options include ‘Flyaway’, ‘Ibiza’, and ‘Resistafly’. These varieties aren’t completely immune, but they are less likely to be attacked.

Avoid Thinning Carrots

Thinning carrots releases their scent, which attracts carrot fly. Instead, sow your carrots thinly so you don’t need to thin them out later.

Create Physical Barriers

Physical barriers can keep carrot fly away from your carrots. You can cover your carrot crop with horticultural fleece or grow them in raised beds surrounded by a barrier of polythene or netting.

Companion Planting

Planting carrots with certain companion plants can help mask their scent and deter carrot fly. Good companion plants for carrots include alliums (such as chives and garlic), marigolds, and nasturtiums.

Avoid Long Rows

Don’t plant your carrots in long rows. This makes it easier for carrot fly to find and attack your carrots. Instead, plant them in shorter rows or among other vegetables.

Sow Carrots Later

By changing the timing of your sowings, you can avoid the main flying season of carrot fly. Sow carrots from June onwards to reduce the risk of attack.

Practice Crop Rotation

Carrot fly overwinters in the soil. By practicing good crop rotation, you can prevent them from infesting your carrots year after year. Don’t grow carrots in the same spot two years in a row.

Avoid Growing Parsnips and Celery

Parsnips, celery, parsley, and celeriac also attract carrot fly. Avoid growing these crops near your carrots.

Be Nice to Moles

Moles eat carrot fly and other soil-dwelling pests. By being more tolerant of moles, you can naturally reduce the number of carrot flies in your garden.

Caring for Your Carrots

Carrots don’t require a lot of care. Keep the soil around them weed-free and water them sparingly.

Gardening

Companion Planting for Lavender: A Comprehensive Guide to Boost Growth and Protect Your Plants

by Donna May 27, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Companion Planting for Lavender: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Companion planting is a great way to improve the health and productivity of your garden. By pairing plants that have complementary needs and benefits, you can create a thriving ecosystem that is more resistant to pests and diseases. Lavender is a popular companion plant because it has a number of beneficial properties, including repelling insects and attracting pollinators.

Choosing Companion Plants for Lavender

When choosing companion plants for lavender, it is important to consider their growing requirements. Lavender prefers full sun, well-drained soil, and infrequent watering. It is also important to choose plants that are not too competitive, as they can crowd out the lavender.

Some good companion plants for lavender include:

Echinacea
Aster
Sedum
Wild indigo
Baby’s breath
Drought tolerant roses
Gazania

These plants all share similar growing requirements to lavender and will not compete with it for resources. They also produce beautiful flowers that will complement the lavender’s purple blooms.

Benefits of Companion Planting for Lavender

There are many benefits to companion planting for lavender. Some of the most notable benefits include:

Pest control: Lavender is a natural repellant for moths, slugs, and deer. Planting lavender near other plants that are susceptible to these pests can help to protect them.
Improved growth: Some companion plants, such as echinacea and aster, can help to improve the growth and yield of lavender.
Increased pollination: Lavender is a popular plant for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. Planting other flowering plants near lavender can help to attract more pollinators to your garden, which will benefit all of your plants.

Companion Planting for Specific Pests

In addition to the general benefits of companion planting for lavender, there are also specific companion plants that can be used to target specific pests. For example:

Fruit trees: Fruit trees are often attacked by moths. Planting lavender near fruit trees can help to repel these pests and improve the yield of fruit.
Cabbage and broccoli: Cabbage and broccoli are often preyed upon by slugs. Planting lavender near these vegetables can help to deter slugs and protect your crops.

How to Companion Plant Lavender

Companion planting is a simple and effective way to improve the health and productivity of your lavender plants. Here are a few tips for companion planting lavender:

Choose plants that have complementary needs. Consider the growing requirements of lavender and choose companion plants that have similar needs.
Avoid planting competitive plants. Choose companion plants that are not too competitive, as they can crowd out the lavender.
Plant in groups. Planting companion plants in groups will help to create a more beneficial environment for the lavender.
Water and fertilize regularly. Lavender needs regular watering and fertilizing to thrive. Be sure to water and fertilize your companion plants as well.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and productive lavender garden that is full of beneficial companion plants.

Growing Herbs

Grow Marjoram: The Ultimate Guide to Cultivating This Fragrant Herb

by Donna May 16, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Growing Marjoram: A Beginner’s Guide to a Fragrant and Flavorful Herb

Marjoram is a versatile herb that is easy to grow and has a variety of uses. It can be used fresh or dried to add flavor to dishes, or it can be used to make tea or essential oils. Marjoram is also a popular companion plant, as it attracts beneficial insects to the garden.

What is Marjoram?

Marjoram (Origanum majorana) is a member of the mint family. It is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region. Marjoram has a sweet, slightly peppery flavor and a fragrant aroma. There are three main varieties of marjoram: sweet marjoram, pot marjoram, and wild marjoram (also known as common oregano).

How to Grow Marjoram

Marjoram is a relatively easy herb to grow. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Marjoram can be grown from seed or from cuttings.

Growing Marjoram from Seed

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Sow seeds just below the surface of the soil.
Keep the soil moist and warm.
Seedlings will emerge in 10-14 days.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost.

Growing Marjoram from Cuttings

Take cuttings from healthy marjoram plants in the spring or summer.
Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long.
Remove the leaves from the bottom of the cuttings.
Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone.
Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with moist potting mix.
Keep the cuttings warm and moist.
Cuttings will root in 2-3 weeks.

Marjoram Plant Care

Marjoram plants are relatively low-maintenance. They require regular watering, but they are tolerant of drought. Marjoram does not need to be fertilized, but it will benefit from a light application of fertilizer in the spring.

Marjoram plants can be grown in the ground or in containers. If you are growing marjoram in containers, be sure to choose a pot that has drainage holes.

Harvesting and Drying Marjoram

Marjoram can be harvested throughout the growing season. The best time to harvest marjoram is just before the flowers bloom. To harvest marjoram, cut the stems just above the ground.

Marjoram can be used fresh or dried. To dry marjoram, bundle the stems together and hang them upside down in a dark, dry, and well-ventilated area. Once the marjoram is dry, crumble the leaves and store them in an airtight container.

Using Marjoram

Marjoram has a variety of uses in the kitchen. It can be used fresh or dried to add flavor to dishes. Marjoram is a popular ingredient in Italian, Greek, and Middle Eastern cuisine. It can be used to flavor meats, poultry, fish, vegetables, and soups. Marjoram can also be used to make tea or essential oils.

Marjoram tea is a soothing and relaxing beverage. It can be enjoyed hot or cold. Marjoram essential oil has a variety of therapeutic benefits. It can be used to relieve stress, anxiety, and muscle pain.

Troubleshooting Common Marjoram Problems

Marjoram is a relatively pest- and disease-free herb. However, there are a few common problems that you may encounter.

Aphids: Aphids are small, green insects that can suck the sap from marjoram plants. To control aphids, spray the plants with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, red insects that can also suck the sap from marjoram plants. To control spider mites, spray the plants with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause white powdery spots on the leaves of marjoram plants. To control powdery mildew, spray the plants with a fungicide.

Conclusion

Marjoram is a versatile and easy-to-grow herb that has a variety of uses. It is a popular companion plant, and it can be used fresh or dried to add flavor to dishes. Marjoram can also be used to make tea or essential oils. With a little care, you can enjoy the many benefits of marjoram for years to come.

Vegetable Gardening

Companion Planting with Peas: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Gardeners

by Gregory May 7, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Companion Planting with Peas: A Guide for Young Gardeners

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why some gardeners plant different types of plants together in their gardens? This practice is called companion planting, and it’s a great way to improve the growth and health of your plants. In this article, we’ll focus on companion planting with peas, a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can benefit from having the right plant neighbors.

Benefits of Companion Planting with Peas

There are many benefits to companion planting with peas, including:

Pest control: Certain companion plants can help to repel pests that are attracted to peas. For example, aromatic herbs like cilantro and mint release scents that deter insects.
Pollination: Some companion plants attract pollinators, which are essential for pea production. For instance, leafy greens like lettuce and spinach provide a food source for bees and other pollinating insects.
Nutrient enhancement: Some companion plants can add nutrients to the soil, which can benefit peas and other plants in the garden. For example, members of the Brassica family, such as cauliflower and broccoli, release sulfur into the soil, which is beneficial for peas.
Diversity: Companion planting creates a more diverse ecosystem in your garden, which can make it more resilient to pests and diseases. By planting a variety of plant species, you reduce the chances of any one pest or disease becoming a major problem.

Choosing the Right Companion Plants for Peas

Not all plants make good companion plants for peas. Here are some of the best choices:

Aromatic herbs: Cilantro, mint, and basil
Leafy greens: Lettuce, spinach, and kale
Root vegetables: Radishes, carrots, and turnips
Brassica family: Cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage
Other: Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes

Plants to Avoid Planting with Peas

There are also some plants that you should avoid planting near peas. These include:

Allium family: Onions, garlic, and leeks
Gladioli: These flowers can release chemicals that inhibit pea growth

How to Companion Plant with Peas

Companion planting is easy to do. Simply plant your chosen companion plants around your pea plants, keeping in mind the spacing requirements for each species. You can also interplant companion plants within your pea rows.

Tips for Companion Planting Success

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of companion planting with peas:

Choose plants with complementary growth habits. For example, plant tall plants like corn next to shorter plants like peas to provide shade and support.
Rotate your companion plants each year. This will help to prevent soil depletion and disease buildup.
Water and fertilize your plants regularly. This will help them to grow strong and healthy, and it will also benefit your companion plants.
Be patient. It may take some time to see the full benefits of companion planting, but it’s worth the effort in the long run.

Conclusion

Companion planting is a great way to improve the growth and health of your peas. By choosing the right companion plants and following these tips, you can create a thriving and productive pea garden.

Gardening

Gardening Q&A with Experts: Your March Questions Answered

by Gregory May 7, 2024

written by Gregory 5 minutes read

Gardening Q&A with the Experts

Introduction

Do you have questions about your garden? Our team of gardening experts is here to help! Each month, they answer a selection of your questions, providing expert advice on everything from plant care to garden design.

Your March Questions Answered

Camellia Care

Question: My camellia has beautiful blooms, but the foliage is sparse in the middle. Can I renovate it to make it bushier?
Answer: Yes, camellias can be pruned to encourage bushier growth. Prune after flowering, using sharp tools to create a basic framework. New shoots will grow from this framework, filling out the plant.

Seedling Growth

Question: My seedlings are growing tall and leggy without many leaves. What’s wrong?
Answer: Seedlings may stretch towards light if they don’t receive enough. Increase light levels by placing a mirror or reflective material behind them. Ensure clean glass in greenhouses and consider using LED lights if natural light is insufficient.

Mulching with Tree Branches

Question: Can I use fresh tree branches as mulch for soft fruits?
Answer: Yes, but allow at least three months for decomposition before applying. Fresh material removes nitrogen from the soil as it decomposes. Compensate by scattering high-nitrogen feed around the plant base before mulching.

Reblooming Astrantia

Question: How can I encourage my astrantia to rebloom?
Answer: Divide old astrantia plants in spring. Remove the central part and retain the younger, more vigorous pieces from the outside. Replant or pot and grow over summer, then plant out in October. Ensure plants are well-watered during dry periods and feed with a potash-rich fertilizer.

Pest Control for Snowdrops

Question: What can I do to stop things from eating my snowdrop flowers?
Answer: Mice, voles, and birds may damage snowdrop flowers. Use humane traps to reduce mice and vole populations. Cover plants with chicken wire to deter birds. Create slug traps or use environmentally friendly slug pellets or copper barriers to control slugs and snails.

Plants for Shade and Wind

Question: What plants can survive in full shade and full wind?
Answer: Consider plants with thick, leathery evergreen foliage, such as ivies, hellebores, hydrangeas, and fatsia. Shade-tolerant bulbs like muscari and dwarf narcissus can also thrive in these conditions.

Companion Planting with Raspberries

Question: Can I grow other plants with autumn-fruiting raspberries?
Answer: Yes, but raspberries prefer not to have competition from surrounding plants. Plant in clumps among ornamentals, leaving a gap around them. Consider herbaceous plants like hellebores and erythroniums or small spring bulbs like muscari and crocus.

Soil Health and Worms

Question: I have sandy soil but don’t see any worms. Should I be concerned?
Answer: Worms may be present but deeper in the soil, especially in moist, cooler conditions. If plants are healthy, soil pH is likely not an issue. Continue adding organic matter to improve soil health and encourage worm activity.

Cherry Tree Bark Peeling

Question: Why is the bark of my cherry tree peeling at the base?
Answer: Peeling bark can be caused by mower or strimmer damage, environmental stress, or bacterial canker. Take care when working around the tree and feed with a general fertilizer in spring to promote growth.

Alternatives to Lawns with Pets

Question: What can I use instead of a lawn with multiple pets?
Answer: Fine-grade bark can withstand pet activity. Sawdust can also be used, but it may be less aesthetically pleasing. Consider rotating pets to different areas of the garden to give the turf a chance to recover.

Meet Our Experts

Ashley Edwards, Head Gardener at Horatio’s Garden
Humaira Ikram, Garden Designer
Christine Walkden, Garden Writer and Lecturer
Matt Biggs, Horticulturalist with over 30 years of experience

Send Us Your Questions!

Have a gardening question? Send it in by noon on Wednesday 3rd April, and our experts will answer it in next month’s Q&A. Please note, you will not receive an individual response.

Gardening

What to Plant with Alliums: A Guide to Companion Planting

by Gregory May 1, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

What to Plant with Alliums

Alliums are beautiful and versatile plants that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they bloom in a range of colors from white to purple. But what should you plant with alliums?

Planting Alliums

Alliums are easy to grow and can be planted in a variety of locations. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun, but they can also tolerate partial shade. When planting alliums, be sure to space them about 6 inches apart.

Companion Planting

Alliums make great companion plants for a variety of other flowers and vegetables. Some good choices include:

Grasses: Grasses can add height and movement to an allium planting. Some good choices include pennisetum setaceum and carex.
Salvia: Salvia is a popular choice for planting with alliums because it comes in a variety of colors and blooms at the same time as alliums.
Verbascum: Verbascum is a tall, stately plant that can add drama to an allium planting.
Geum: Geum is a low-growing plant that produces bright orange flowers. It’s a good choice for adding a splash of color to an allium planting.

Allium Varieties

There are many different varieties of alliums to choose from. Some of the most popular include:

Allium ‘Purple Sensation’: This variety produces large, purple flowers.
Allium ‘Mount Everest’: This variety produces tall, white flowers.
Allium sphaerocephalon: This variety produces burgundy flowers that resemble drumsticks.

Bloom Time

Most alliums bloom in late spring or early summer. However, there are some varieties that bloom later in the year. If you want to extend the blooming season of your alliums, choose a variety that blooms later in the summer or fall.

Design Tips

When planting alliums, keep these design tips in mind:

Color: Alliums come in a variety of colors, so you can use them to create a variety of different looks in your garden.
Contrast: Alliums look great when paired with plants that have contrasting colors or textures.
Height: Alliums come in a variety of heights, so you can use them to create a variety of different effects in your garden.
Shape: Alliums have a variety of different shapes, so you can use them to create a variety of different looks in your garden.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and eye-catching allium planting that will add a touch of elegance to your garden.

Vegetable Gardening

Companion Planting for Beginners: Grow a Healthy, Productive Garden Naturally

by Gregory April 19, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Companion Planting: A Guide for Beginners

What is Companion Planting?

Companion planting is a natural way to keep your garden healthy and productive. It involves growing different plants together that help each other grow better. For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes can help deter whiteflies, which are pests that can damage tomato plants.

Benefits of Companion Planting

Companion planting has many benefits, including:

Improved crop yields
Reduced pests and diseases
Increased pollination
Enhanced flavor

Common Companion Plant Combinations

Here are some common companion plant combinations:

Mint and brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower): Mint’s strong scent deters flea beetles, which can damage brassicas.
Marigolds and tomatoes: Marigolds’ strong scent deters whiteflies, which can damage tomatoes.
Carrots and leeks: Carrots’ strong scent deters leek moths, while leeks’ scent deters carrot flies.
Lavender with carrots and leeks: Lavender attracts pollinators, which can help increase yields.
Wormwood and beans: Wormwood’s strong scent deters aphids, which can damage beans.
Calendula and beans: Calendula’s flowers attract aphids away from beans, and its strong scent attracts beneficial insects that prey on aphids.
Sage and brassicas: Sage’s strong scent confuses pests of brassicas, such as flea beetles.
Borage and strawberries: Borage’s flowers attract pollinators, which can help improve strawberry flavor.
Thyme and roses: Thyme’s strong scent deters blackfly, which can damage roses.
Calendula and courgettes: Calendula’s flowers attract pollinators, which can help increase courgette pollination.

Plants to Avoid in Companion Planting

There are a few plant combinations that you should avoid, such as:

Tall plants next to short plants (tall plants will block sunlight)
Thirsty plants next to drought-tolerant plants (one plant will get too much or too little water)
Plants that release chemicals that inhibit growth of other plants (known as allelopathy)

Conclusion

Companion planting is a great way to improve the health and productivity of your garden. By following the tips in this article, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden that is full of healthy plants.

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