Companion planting is a fabulous technique where plants are specially selected and positioned next to one another to support each other to thrive. It is a wonderful gesture of natural symbiosis. Ways in which this process works might include one plant naturally deterring insects that may otherwise feast on the other, otherwise, it can also mean attracting pollinators to neighbouring plants or providing shelter or shade. The technique also avoids using harsh chemicals that may otherwise be used for protection and with a greener world being one of our main aspirations, this is a truly marvellous method. While I integrate this technique often into planting plans, a very special experience that I reflect upon fondly occurred during the summer of 2011. It was during a particularly hot few weeks, with the merciless sun beating down on our backs that we constructed ‘The Potential Feast’, a garden that would go on to be awarded Silver Gilt at the renowned RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. The very special thing about this garden was that all the plants were edible. This was an exhilarating and valuable expression of creativity, particularly in the context of health and sustainability. The challenge that goes along with creating a garden that is so delectable, is that it is not only human beings that enjoy the taste. We were unyielding regarding the use of chemicals, making companion planting an enchanting solution. A few exemplary pairings include the spectacular and aromatic duo ‘Laurus nobilis’ (Bay Laurel) with and Lavandula ‘Munstead’ (Lavender). The fragrant green leaves of the Bay Laurel alongside the deep purple hues and soothing aroma of Lavender are exquisite. The two are both a delightful addition to an outdoor space, both being natural repellents of mosquitos and flies. Their naturally contrasting heights and textures create intrigue and outstanding visual appeal. Olea europaea (Olive tree) with Rosa ‘Felicia’ (Rose) form a beautiful companionship. The timeless elegance of the olive tree stands tall with pale silver-green leaves that shimmer ethereally in the sunlight, nestled against it Rose felicia can bloom with her delicate petals attracting the gentle buzz of bees and butterflies. The allure of the Rose benefits the olive trees’ pollination demonstrating a mesmerising collaboration. These are just a few of the many marvellous combinations that can be used to create well-balanced and self-protecting ecosystems.
Hello, My name is Kelsey and I am a gardening and food blogger for Sigsbee Street. I have had many years of testing out different companion planting and there are a few that have worked well for me. Here are a few companion plantings I would recommend. 1. Marigolds: Marigolds pair well with almost any plant. They have a naturally strong scent that repels garden pests, like aphids, mosquitoes, and nematodes. Some of my favorite companion plants with marigolds are cucumbers and squash. 2. Rosemary, Lavender, and Sage: All of these herbs have very similar growing conditions. That is what makes rosemary, lavender, and sage great companion plants. They all like full sun and heat. They require little watering and don’t need to be over-fertilized. 3. Parsley and Tomatoes: Parsley is actually a natural deterrent of the tomato hornworm, making it a great one to plant next to tomatoes. I have also found that parsley can handle a little bit of shade so it can be planted close to a tomato plant while still letting it thrive. I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any additional information. Thank you for your consideration, Kelsey
Co-founder, Digital Marketing Director, Gardening & Home Improvement Expert at Reefertilizer
Answered 2 years ago
My standout experiences with companion planting happened when I first started gardening at home. I tried growing Marigolds next to my tomatoes to naturally keep pests away—specifically nematodes—without resorting to harsh chemicals. The outcome was quite remarkable. The Marigolds not only added a splash of color to my garden but also significantly lowered the pest attacks on my tomatoes. This approach resulted in a healthier and more fruitful tomato crop than what I had seen in the past. This event really drove home for me the value of companion planting as a way to garden more sustainably. It also increased my appreciation for the complex interactions between plants that can lead to improved health and productivity of crops.
Cultivating Success Through Companion Planting of Tomatoes with Basil and Marigolds One memorable experience I had with companion planting occurred in my backyard garden when I paired tomatoes with basil and marigolds. Inspired by the principles of companion planting, I interplanted these species to enhance growth and deter pests naturally. The results were remarkable; not only did the tomatoes thrive and produce abundant fruit, but the basil also flourished, providing a fragrant and flavorful addition to our meals. Additionally, the marigolds acted as natural pest repellents, warding off harmful insects and promoting a healthier garden ecosystem. This real-life experience highlighted the effectiveness of companion planting in maximizing yield and biodiversity while minimizing the need for chemical pesticides. It reaffirmed my belief in the symbiotic relationships that exist within nature and the wisdom of traditional gardening practices.
My Memorable Garden Pairing One memorable experience with companion planting was pairing tomatoes with basil in my garden. The result was a noticeable improvement in tomato flavor and health. Basil acted as a natural pest repellent, warding off insects that could harm the tomato plants. Additionally, the aromatic basil enhanced the flavor of the tomatoes, creating a delicious synergy. This simple combination not only boosted the yield but also enriched the taste of the harvest. It demonstrated the effectiveness of strategic plant pairings in promoting garden health and productivity.
As a busy business owner, I don't have a lot of time to focus on my garden (though I wish I did!). But last spring I managed to carve out a week to redo my north-facing garden, which had previously been terribly neglected. It gets very little sun and I knew I needed to start from scratch if I wanted to make it beautiful for years to come. Shade-loving perennials were the obvious answer, and I went with Hostas and Astilbe. These two plants are natural buddies because they both do well in acidic soil and prefer little direct sunshine. They're also low-maintenance, something that suits my lifestyle. And, of course, they're lovely to look at.