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Companion Plants In An Organic Garden
As a gardener, have you must have noticed that certain plants thrive better when grown near certain other plants' Some plants have been found to be averse to specific plants. Bearing this in mind, organic gardeners will always grow their plants in companion groups. This is because companion planting improves the general health of your plants and reduces stress on them. But which plants are companions to each other'Tomatoes flourish when grown near basil and parsley. Peppers favour basil. This is because basil plants retain moisture in the air, creating a humid condition beneficial to pepper plants. Lettuce does well amongst pepper plants, too. When planting cabbage, broccoli, or any other brassicas, onions are an ideal friend. Onions ensure that your cabbage is not infested by cabbage worms. In the same way, tomatoes grown near cabbage will deter loopers, flea beetles, and whiteflies. Mint is also helpful for squash and brassicas.
Beet, beans, and dill flourish near cabbage. Melons and pumpkins grow remarkably well near corn. Broccoli and cucumber planted together discourage striped cucumber beetle. Leek plants prevent carrot flies, so grow them close together. Tansy is an excellent deterrent to cabbage worms, Colorado beetles, Japanese beetles, ants, aphids, and squash bugs.
It’s not only vegetable plants that help each other; some flowers are also very beneficial for vegetables. Marigold can deter cabbage pests, and encourage growth in rose plants. They also attract hoverflies, who do like to feed on aphids. Marigold and chrysanthemums reduce nematodes in the soil, therefore making it healthier. Garlic helps reduce black spot, aphids and mildew on your roses. Alyssums add to the organic content of the soil. This is because they reseed frequently, helping to break down the soil.
OK. They were the “good” friends, what about the “bad” friends. Never plant carrots, cauliflower or potatoes near tomatoes. Avoid growing asparagus near potatoes or onions. Beans are incompatible with, fennel, chives and garlic. Potatoes loath summer squash and pumpkin. Carrots will not grow near dill. Members of the onion family, including garlic, will not thrive near peas.
So, now you have an idea about good and bad plant friends, you may want to take a look at your vegetable garden and see if you have some plants that should not be mixing others. If you have, then take note when planning your next planting season. Try some of the suggestions mentioned and make your plants happy by giving them good companions. A contented garden will definitely put a grin on your face and loads of veggies on your plate.