Companion Planting, what is it and what does it do?

Companion planting involves growing certain plants together to benefit each other in various ways, such as pest control, nutrient sharing, and pollination enhancement.

Here are some examples of companion planting:

1. Tomatoes and Basil: Planting basil alongside tomatoes can help repel pests such as tomato hornworms and aphids. Additionally, basil is believed to improve the flavour of tomatoes.

2. Marigolds and Vegetables: Marigolds emit a strong scent that deters pests like aphids, nematodes, and whiteflies. Planting marigolds around vegetable beds can help protect crops from these common pests.

3. Corn, Beans, and Squash (The Three Sisters): This traditional Native American planting technique involves interplanting corn, beans, and squash. The corn provides support for the beans to climb, while the beans fix nitrogen in the soil for the corn and squash. The squash's large leaves shade the soil, reducing weed growth and moisture loss.

4. Lettuce and Tall Plants: Planting lettuce in the shade of taller plants like tomatoes or corn can help keep it cooler during hot weather, preventing it from bolting (going to seed) prematurely.

5. Nasturtiums and Cucumbers: Nasturtiums attract aphids away from cucumbers, acting as a sacrificial trap crop. Additionally, nasturtiums have edible flowers and leaves that add colour and flavour to salads.

6. Garlic and Roses: Garlic is believed to repel aphids, Japanese beetles, and other pests that can damage roses. Planting garlic around rose bushes can help protect them from pest infestations.

These are just a few examples of companion planting combinations. By experimenting with different plant combinations, gardeners can create healthier, more resilient gardens while reducing the need for chemical pesticides and fertilisers.