10 Best Calendula Companion Plants for Your Garden
Understanding Calendula Companion Planting
When it comes to gardening, many people often overlook the importance of companion planting. However, choosing the right plants to grow alongside each other can make a big difference in terms of productivity, pest control, and overall plant health. In this article, we'll be focusing on the best calendula companion plants that can help you create a beautiful and thriving garden.
What are Calendula Companion Plants?
Calendula is a popular herb that is known for its bright yellow or orange flowers. It is commonly used in skincare products, herbal remedies, and as an edible flower. When it comes to companion planting, calendula has many benefits. It attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, repels harmful pests like aphids and whiteflies, and enhances the flavor of certain vegetables like tomatoes and beans.
Here are ten calendula companion plants that you should consider adding to your garden:
1. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are a great addition to any garden, especially when paired with calendula. They have attractive flowers that come in a variety of colors, and their leaves are edible and have a spicy flavor. Nasturtiums are also great at attracting pollinators and deterring harmful bugs like aphids and whiteflies.
How to Plant Nasturtiums with Calendula
Plant nasturtiums around the edges of your calendula patch, or intersperse them throughout. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, so make sure to choose a spot that gets plenty of light. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater.
2. Marigolds
Marigolds are another great companion plant for calendula. They have bright flowers that come in a range of colors, and they are known for their ability to repel harmful insects like nematodes and whiteflies. Marigolds also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies.
How to Plant Marigolds with Calendula
Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your calendula patch or intersperse them throughout. Make sure to choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater.
3. Chives
Chives are a type of herb that are often used in cooking. They have small, purple flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Chives are also known for their ability to deter pests like aphids and spider mites.
How to Plant Chives with Calendula
Plant chives near your calendula patch, either in a separate container or in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. Water them regularly, and harvest the leaves as needed for cooking.
4. Borage
Borage is an herb that has blue, star-shaped flowers. It is often used in herbal medicine and as a culinary herb. Borage is also great for attracting bees and other pollinators to your garden.
How to Plant Borage with Calendula
Plant borage near your calendula patch, either in a separate container or in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. Water them regularly, and harvest the leaves as needed for cooking or making tea.
5. Dill
Dill is an herb that is often used in pickling and other culinary dishes. It has feathery leaves and attractive yellow flowers that attract beneficial insects like butterflies and ladybugs.
How to Plant Dill with Calendula
Plant dill near your calendula patch, either in a separate container or in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. Water them regularly, and harvest the leaves and flowers as needed for cooking.
6. Yarrow
Yarrow is a perennial herb that has small, white or yellow flowers. It is often used in herbal remedies and is known for its ability to attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies.
How to Plant Yarrow with Calendula
Plant yarrow near your calendula patch, either in a separate container or in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. Water them regularly, and harvest the leaves and flowers as needed for herbal remedies.
7. Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant herb that has purple flowers. It is often used in aromatherapy and as a culinary herb. Lavender is also great at attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
How to Plant Lavender with Calendula
Plant lavender near your calendula patch, either in a separate container or in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. Water them regularly, and harvest the leaves and flowers as needed for aromatherapy or cooking.
8. Sage
Sage is an herb that is often used in cooking and herbal remedies. It has attractive purple flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
How to Plant Sage with Calendula
Plant sage near your calendula patch, either in a separate container or in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. Water them regularly, and harvest the leaves and flowers as needed for cooking or making herbal remedies.
9. Cosmos
Cosmos is a type of flower that comes in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and purple. It is great at attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, and it also adds a pop of color to your garden.
How to Plant Cosmos with Calendula
Plant cosmos near your calendula patch, either in a separate container or in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun. Water them regularly, and deadhead the flowers as needed to encourage more blooms.
10. Sunflowers
Sunflowers are a classic addition to any garden. They have large, bright yellow flowers that are great at attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Sunflowers also provide shade for other plants and add visual interest to your garden.
How to Plant Sunflowers with Calendula
Plant sunflowers near your calendula patch, either in a separate container or in the ground. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun. Water them regularly, and stake them if they begin to lean.
Benefits of Calendula Companion Planting
By choosing the right companion plants for your calendula patch, you can create a thriving garden that is both beautiful and productive. Companion planting not only helps to attract beneficial insects and deter harmful pests, but it also enhances the flavor of certain vegetables and herbs. So why not give it a try?
FAQs
1. What is calendula?
Calendula is a popular herb that is known for its bright yellow or orange flowers. It is commonly used in skincare products, herbal remedies, and as an edible flower.
2. What are the benefits of companion planting?
Companion planting can help attract beneficial insects, repel harmful pests, and enhance the flavor of certain vegetables and herbs.
3. What are some other good companion plants for calendula?
Other good companion plants for calendula include chamomile, parsley, and thyme.
4. How do I care for my companion plants?
Make sure to choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Water your plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater. Harvest leaves and flowers as needed for cooking or making herbal remedies.
5. Can I plant all of these companion plants together?
Yes, you can plant all of these companion plants together in the same garden bed or container. Just make sure to give them enough space to grow and thrive.
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