Gardening is one of those things that seem simple on the surface, but it only gets more complex the longer you dive into it. For example, did you know that there are many plants that grow well together?
This can happen for a number of reasons. Mostly it’s because they work in mutual benefit to one another – one providing shade while the other bathes in sunlight, or one repelling pests that usually harm the other.
Vegetables and fruits are often targeted by common gardening pests, which is why so many of these companion plants can help in protecting them – all without the use of any pesticides. It’s perfectly natural!
“People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude. – John C. Maxwell
Roses and garlic
Roses and garlic are some of the most well-known pairs. The smell of garlic is often used to keep pests away, and it works wonders against most rose pests. Keep these two close together and they will both be safe.
In fact, garlic goes well with a lot of other plants. Potatoes, broccoli, tomatoes, fruit trees, carrots, kale – they’re all great companions!
Tomatoes and cabbage
Cabbage leaves are often targeted by larvae and other critters, creating holes in your leaves. Tomatoes are great for fighting against these common annoyances, which is why these plants should grow together!
By the way, did you know that armyworms are invading the US? Here’s How To Prepare!
Lettuce and tall flowers
Tall flowers are often used to create shade, ensuring the perfect condition for lettuce to grow. Cleome and Nicotiana are common picks, but just about any flower tall enough to create shade should work very well.
Radishes and spinach
Radishes are actually great to plant with other veggies, as they tend to take all the attention of common pests. Besides, if some radishes have their leaves chewed up, it doesn’t prevent the radish itself from growing healthy underground.
If that’s your goal, consider using lots of radish seeds – some of them may be sacrificed to pests, but the rest of your vegetable garden will be fine!
Radishes are also great company for lettuce, carrots, onions, cucumbers, and spinach, as well as herbs in general.
Cauliflower and dwarf zinnias
Dwarf zinnias have very attractive nectar that lures in ladybugs and other insects, keeping your cauliflower safe. Any other pests attracted by this flower will also leave your crops alone.
Pepper and basil
Basil is a phenomenal herb for your crops, as it helps in repelling even mosquitoes and flies. Besides, basil is a good herb to grow anyway, so it’s pure profit for your cooking.
You may also accompany basil with spinach, tomatoes, onions, and carrots, to name a few.
Oh yeah, and the legend says that basil improves the flavor of the pepper… I can’t prove that, but hey, what’s not to love?
Carrots and onions
Onions are similar to garlic, in that their mere presence will keep many aphids, insects, and small pests away from your crops. In this case, onions are great to pair with carrots, as they prevent carrot flies from approaching.
Other companion plants for onions are lettuce, beets, cabbage, and tomatoes.
Melons and Herbs
Melons benefit greatly from flowering herbs because they attract more pollinators that make them taste better! Mint, catnip, basil, and tansy are good choices here.
You can also use attractive flowers like marigolds, borage, and lavender, as they also attract bees to help your melons grow.
You can always give your gardening efforts a nice revamp. Get free quotes from landscaping pros in your area today to start planning!
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