Companion Flowers for Strawberries: A Guide to Boosting Your Harvest

Oleh Anonymous September 03, 2021 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

Strawberries are one of the most popular fruits in the world, thanks to their sweet taste and versatility in cooking. But did you know that planting companion flowers alongside your strawberry patch can significantly boost your harvest? Not only do these flowers add aesthetic value to your garden, but they also attract pollinators and repel pests, leading to healthier plants and better yields.

In this guide, we'll explore some of the best companion flowers for strawberries, along with tips on how to plant and care for them. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or new to the hobby, you'll find plenty of useful information here to help you maximize your strawberry harvest.

Best Companion Flowers for Strawberries

Borage

Borage is an excellent companion flower for strawberries because it attracts bees and other pollinators. Its blue, star-shaped flowers bloom from early summer to fall, making it a long-lasting addition to your garden. Borage also repels tomato hornworms and cabbage worms, which can damage your strawberry plants.

To plant borage, sow seeds directly into the soil in early spring. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Make sure to space the seeds about 18 inches apart, as borage can grow quite large.

Calendula

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is another great companion flower for strawberries. Its bright orange or yellow flowers attract pollinators and repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies. Calendula also has medicinal properties and can be used in skincare products.

To plant calendula, sow seeds directly into the soil in early spring. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Make sure to space the seeds about 12 inches apart.

Nasturtium

Nasturtium is a colorful annual flower that attracts pollinators and repels pests such as aphids and whiteflies. Its edible flowers and leaves add a peppery flavor to salads and other dishes. Nasturtium also acts as a trap crop, luring pests away from your strawberries.

To plant nasturtium, sow seeds directly into the soil in early spring. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Make sure to space the seeds about 10 inches apart.

Lavender

Lavender is a fragrant perennial flower that attracts bees and other pollinators. Its purple flowers bloom from late spring to summer, providing a beautiful contrast to your strawberry patch. Lavender also repels pests such as moths and fleas.

To plant lavender, choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Space the plants about 18 inches apart and water them regularly until they are established.

Chamomile

Chamomile is an herb that attracts beneficial insects such as hoverflies and parasitic wasps. Its delicate white flowers bloom from late spring to fall, adding a touch of elegance to your garden. Chamomile also has medicinal properties and can be used in teas and other remedies.

To plant chamomile, sow seeds directly into the soil in early spring. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Make sure to space the seeds about 6 inches apart.

How to Plant and Care for Companion Flowers

Now that you know some of the best companion flowers for strawberries, let's go over some tips on how to plant and care for them.

Choose the Right Location

Companion flowers for strawberries prefer a sunny location with well-drained soil. Make sure your garden bed has good drainage and receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Avoid planting in areas with heavy foot traffic or where water tends to pool.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil by removing weeds and debris and adding compost or other organic matter. This will help improve soil fertility and drainage, leading to healthier plants.

Plant at the Right Time

Most companion flowers for strawberries should be planted in early spring, after the last frost date in your area. Follow the instructions on the seed packet or plant label for specific planting times and spacing requirements.

Water Regularly

Companion flowers for strawberries need regular watering to thrive. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture levels. Avoid getting water on the leaves and flowers, as this can lead to fungal diseases.

Mulch Around Plants

Mulching around your companion flowers can help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds. Use organic mulch such as straw or shredded leaves, and avoid piling it up against the stems of the plants.

FAQs

1. Which companion flowers are best for attracting pollinators?

Borage, lavender, and chamomile are all excellent companion flowers for attracting bees and other pollinators to your garden.

2. Can I plant companion flowers in containers?

Yes, many companion flowers can be grown in containers as long as they have enough space and sunlight. Be sure to choose a container with good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix.

3. How often should I water my companion flowers?

Companion flowers for strawberries need regular watering, usually once or twice a week depending on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

4. Can companion flowers help repel pests?

Yes, many companion flowers such as borage, calendula, and nasturtium can help repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies.

5. When is the best time to plant companion flowers?

Most companion flowers for strawberries should be planted in early spring, after the last frost date in your area.

Planting companion flowers alongside your strawberry patch is an excellent way to boost your harvest and create a beautiful garden space. By attracting pollinators and repelling pests, these flowers help ensure healthy plants and better yields. Remember to choose the right location, prepare the soil, plant at the right time, water regularly, and mulch around your plants for optimal results. With a little care and attention, you'll enjoy a bountiful strawberry harvest and a stunning garden all season long.