What makes a plant a suitable companion? One factor is appreciation for the same conditions. That is obvious, and ornamental gardeners often talk about companion plants such as heathers and conifers.
But did you know that some plants can actually deter pests from others, and that some help to make the harvest better?
Read on....
Here are some of the ways that companion plants can help you in your organic garden...
- By repelling or confusing pests.
- By providing food and shelter for helpers such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps.
- By providing material for natural sprays that discourage pests and provide nutrients.
- By providing material for compost piles: adding nutrients.
- By increasing the vigor and flavor of the companion.
- By adding beauty and variety to your garden, farm and orchard.
- By adding spice and variety to your diet.
In my very first herb garden, I grew Rue (Ruta graveolens) and basil side by side. Both plants perished slowly, while everything else thrived. This is an example of a bad combination, and if I'd known about the secrets of companion planting before this, and had a few handy references, this could have been avoided. This is quite common, however. Some plants repel each other. Others harbour pests that can be contracted by another plant. Many of these bad combinations are noted in the links below.
By using the links below, you will have access to a few of the best charts and tables on companion plants available on the web. Much of the information to do with companion planting is not scientifically proven but it does point a direction for you to go in your garden. Experiment and you will gain in knowledge - the most effective tool for organic gardeners.
Great Companion Planting Links
Herb Companion Chart
Herbs are excellent companion plants. They help with insect control and some can even repel fairly large animals. The chart on this page lists some herbs that are useful in the garden.
Companion Vegetable Gardening
It's said that vegetables are like people, they thrive on companionship. It is believed that vegetables will yield up to twice as much when they are surrounded with companion plants. On this page is a list of the top 12 vegetables and their ideal planting companions.
Companions for Pest Control
An interesting list of insects and the plants that "MAY" repel them, from the College of Agricultural Sciences, Pennsylvania State University.
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