Evidence-Based Companion Planting Philosophy Vegetable garden using companion planting practices.

Weed suppression: Planting sprawling crops like potatoes with tall, upright plants minimizes open areas, where weeds typically take hold.

Similarly, plants with long taproots, like burdock, bring up nutrients from deep in the soil, enriching the topsoil to the benefit of shallow-rooted plants.

Improving soil fertility: Some crops, like beans, peas, and other legumes, help to make nitrogen more available in the soil.

Improved plant health: When one plant absorbs certain substances from the soil, it may change the soil biochemistry in favor of nearby plants.

Natural supports: Tall plants, like corn and sunflowers, can support lower-growing, sprawling crops such as cucumbers and peas.

Shade regulation: Large plants provide shade for smaller plants needing sun protection.

For example, borage attracts pollinating bees and tiny pest-eating wasps.

Attracting beneficials: Some plants also attract beneficial insects.

For example, garlic’s smell is unappealing to many pests.

Deterring pests: Certain plants act as insect repellents or deter critters.

There are plenty more good reasons to plant certain crops together: See more examples and a full chart of proven companions below! The Three Sisters trio-maize, climbing beans, and winter squash-is an age-old example of companion planting.

For example, nasturtiums grown close to kale, cabbage, broccoli, and any brassica crops will lure hungry caterpillars away from eating your crops! And many flowers are excellent companions in the vegetable garden.Here’s another example: Aphids severely crimp your crop! But aphids can’t stand garlic! With this in mind, plant garlic around crops most susceptible to attack. For example, grow potatoes between rows of garlic to serve as a pungent bodyguard.Basil repels certain insect pests such as thrips and also disorientates moths, which lay tomato hornworms. One well-proven example of companion planting is Tomato and Basil, natural companions in the kitchen and garden.

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