Let’s be FRIENDS

Companion planting for your garden

By Brook Thalgott

Did you know that by planting certain plants together, and away from others, can improve your garden’s overall yield and soil health, and help with pest control?

Companion planting is a long-time practice where you grow different plants together in a garden for mutual benefits. It can be especially beneficial in flower beds and vegetable gardens because it helps to create a diverse and sustainable ecosystem that promotes plant health, pest control, and soil fertility.

Buzz off

One of the best benefits of companion planting in a flower and vegetable garden is pest control. By planting certain plants together, you can deter pests naturally, without the use of harmful pesticides. For example, marigolds are a popular companion plant for vegetable gardens because they produce a chemical that repels nematodes—small, soil-dwelling pests that attack the roots of plants. Similarly, planting basil next to tomatoes can deter aphids, whiteflies, and other insects that commonly infest tomato plants. Other beneficial companion plants for pest control include garlic, chives, and onions—both delicious in cooking and helpful in the garden.

Boost the soil

Companion planting can also improve soil fertility by creating a symbiotic relationship between plants. For example, legumes like beans and peas, are nitrogenfixing plants that can take nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that is available to other plants. By planting legumes next to other plants, you can improve the soil’s nitrogen levels and promote healthier growth. Other companion plants that can improve soil fertility include comfrey, which has deep roots that can bring up nutrients from deep in the soil, and yarrow (a wonderful perennial found in many Saskatchewan gardens), which has a taproot that can break up compacted soil and increase aeration.

Increase the yum

In addition to pest control and soil fertility, companion planting can also improve the flavour and yield of certain plants. Planting nasturtiums next to tomatoes can improve the tomatoes’ flavor and increase their yield. Herbs like oregano, thyme, and sage planted next to vegetables like peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes can improve their flavour and deter pests.

Watch for frenemies

When selecting companion plants for your flower and vegetable garden, it’s important to consider their compatibility. Some plants, like tomatoes and cucumbers, are prone to the same diseases, so they should not be planted next to each other. Similarly, some plants like fennel, can inhibit the growth of other plants, so they should be planted away from other crops. To ensure the best results, it’s important to research the specific needs and requirements of each plant and choose companion plants accordingly.

Make friends

Companion planting is a beneficial practice for any flower and vegetable garden. By planting different plants together, you can create a diverse and sustainable ecosystem that promotes plant health, pest control, and soil fertility. With a little planning and attention to detail, you can create a beautiful and productive garden that is beneficial for both you and the environment.