Companion Plants for Nasturtium: Enhancing Your Garden with the Power of Plant Pairing

Oleh Anonymous September 11, 2021 Post a Comment

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The Benefits of Companion Planting with Nasturtium

Companion planting is a gardening technique where different plants are grown together in a way that benefits each other. One popular plant for companion planting is nasturtium. Nasturtiums are not only beautiful and easy to grow, but they also have many benefits for your garden. They attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and bees, which help pollinate your plants and control pests. In addition, they also repel harmful insects, such as aphids and whiteflies, and act as a trap crop for cabbage moths.

Top Companion Plants for Nasturtium

Here are some of the best companion plants to grow with nasturtium:

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes and nasturtiums make great companions because they share similar growing conditions. Nasturtiums can help repel whiteflies and aphids, which are common tomato pests. Plus, tomatoes provide shade for the delicate nasturtium leaves.

2. Cucumbers

Cucumbers and nasturtiums are a natural pairing because cucumbers benefit from the shade provided by the nasturtium leaves. The flowers of the nasturtium also attract bees, which are necessary for pollinating cucumber flowers.

3. Radishes

Radishes and nasturtiums are a classic combination in French gardens. The radishes help deter cucumber beetles, while nasturtiums repel aphids and whiteflies. Plus, the peppery flavor of the nasturtium leaves pairs well with the spicy taste of radishes.

4. Beans

Beans and nasturtiums are great companions because beans fix nitrogen in the soil, which is beneficial for both plants. Nasturtiums also help repel bean beetles, which can be a problem for bean plants.

5. Herbs

Herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage are great companion plants for nasturtiums because they attract beneficial insects and repel harmful ones. Plus, their fragrant leaves can help mask the scent of the nasturtium, which can confuse pests and deter them from attacking.

How to Plant Nasturtiums with Companion Plants

When planting nasturtiums with companion plants, it's important to consider the growing conditions of each plant. Nasturtiums prefer full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. They grow best in soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Here are some tips for planting nasturtiums with companion plants:

1. Choose the Right Location

Select a spot in your garden that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-drained soil. Avoid areas that are too shady or have poor drainage.

2. Prepare the Soil

Before planting, amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve its fertility and drainage. Add any necessary nutrients to achieve the desired pH level.

3. Plant the Companion Plants

Plant your companion plants first, spacing them according to their individual needs. Then, plant the nasturtiums around them, leaving enough space for each plant to grow to its full size.

4. Water Regularly

Water your plants regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Nasturtiums and their companion plants need about an inch of water per week.

5. Mulch

Mulch around your plants to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Use organic mulch, such as straw or leaves, which will break down over time and add nutrients to the soil.

Other Companion Plants for Nasturtium

In addition to the plants mentioned above, there are many other great companion plants for nasturtium. Here are a few more to consider:

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are a classic companion plant because they repel harmful insects and attract beneficial ones. They also have a beautiful, bright color that complements the orange and yellow flowers of nasturtiums.

2. Zinnias

Zinnias are another colorful flower that make a great companion plant for nasturtiums. They attract pollinators and beneficial insects, while their tall stems provide support for the trailing vines of nasturtiums.

3. Lettuce

Lettuce is a cool-season crop that can be planted with nasturtiums in the spring or fall. The leaves of the lettuce provide shade for the delicate nasturtium leaves, while the nasturtiums help repel aphids and whiteflies.

4. Carrots

Carrots and nasturtiums are a natural pairing because they both prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Plus, the flowers of the nasturtium attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, which help control carrot rust flies.

FAQs

Q: Can I plant nasturtiums with vegetables?

A:

Yes, nasturtiums can be planted with many vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers, beans, and radishes. They provide benefits such as attracting beneficial insects, repelling harmful ones, and adding visual interest to your garden.

Q: Are nasturtiums easy to grow?

A:

Yes, nasturtiums are easy to grow and require minimal care. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. They also do well in containers and hanging baskets.

Q: Can I eat nasturtium leaves and flowers?

A:

Yes, nasturtium leaves and flowers are edible and have a peppery flavor. They can be added to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes for a spicy kick.

Q: Do nasturtiums attract bees?

A:

Yes, nasturtiums attract bees and other pollinators, which are necessary for the growth and reproduction of many plants.

Q: How do I care for my nasturtium plants?

A:

Water your nasturtium plants regularly, and fertilize them once a month with a balanced fertilizer. Pinch off any spent flowers to encourage more blooms. If you notice any pests or diseases, treat them immediately to prevent further damage.

Companion planting with nasturtium is a great way to enhance your garden and promote healthy plant growth. By choosing the right companion plants and providing proper care, you can reap the benefits of improved soil fertility, natural pest control, and increased biodiversity. So, why not try planting some nasturtiums with your favorite vegetables or herbs? You might be surprised at the results!