Ground Cherry Companion Plants: Maximizing Your Harvest

Oleh Anonymous October 22, 2021 Post a Comment

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Ground Cherry Companion Plants: An

Ground cherries are small, sweet fruits that are related to tomatoes and come from the same family as nightshade. They are easy to grow and require minimal care, making them a great choice for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. However, did you know that growing ground cherries with certain companion plants can help improve their growth and yield? In this blog post, we will explore some of the best ground cherry companion plants so that you can maximize your harvest.

Why Use Companion Plants?

Companion planting is a gardening technique where different plants are grown together to complement each other. This practice helps to reduce pest infestations, improve soil fertility, and increase yields. When it comes to ground cherries, using companion plants can help them thrive by attracting beneficial insects, repelling pests, and providing support.

The Best Ground Cherry Companion Plants

Basil

Basil is a great companion plant for ground cherries because it attracts bees and other beneficial insects that help with pollination. Additionally, basil has natural insect-repelling properties that can help protect your ground cherries from pests like aphids and whiteflies. Plant basil around your ground cherry plants to see an improvement in their overall health and yield.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another great companion plant for ground cherries. Not only do they attract pollinators, but they also repel harmful nematodes that can damage the roots of your ground cherry plants. Marigolds are easy to grow and come in a variety of colors, making them a great addition to any garden.

Mint

Mint is an excellent companion plant for ground cherries because it repels pests like ants and aphids. Additionally, mint has a strong scent that can help mask the smell of your ground cherry plants, making them less attractive to pests. Plant mint around your ground cherry plants to see an improvement in their health and yield.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are another great companion plant for ground cherries. They attract beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs, which can help with pollination and pest control. Additionally, nasturtiums have natural insect-repelling properties that can help protect your ground cherry plants from aphids and other pests. Plant nasturtiums near your ground cherry plants for best results.

Borage

Borage is an excellent companion plant for ground cherries because it attracts bees and other pollinators. Additionally, borage has natural insect-repelling properties that can help protect your ground cherry plants from pests like tomato hornworms and cabbage worms. Plant borage around your ground cherry plants to see an improvement in their overall health and yield.

Other Companion Plants to Consider

Beans

Beans are a great companion plant for ground cherries because they are nitrogen-fixing plants. This means that they take nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that can be used by other plants. Ground cherries require a lot of nitrogen to grow, so planting beans nearby can help improve their growth and yield.

Corn

Corn is another great companion plant for ground cherries because it provides support. As ground cherries grow, they tend to sprawl out and can become damaged if they are not supported. Planting corn nearby can provide a natural trellis for your ground cherry plants to climb.

Parsley

Parsley is a great companion plant for ground cherries because it attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps. These insects help with pollination and pest control, which can improve the health and yield of your ground cherry plants.

Companion Planting Tips

Plant in Groups

When planting companion plants, it's important to group them together. This helps to create microclimates that are beneficial to both the ground cherries and their companion plants. Additionally, grouping plants together makes it easier to manage pests and diseases.

Rotate Your Crops

To prevent soil-borne diseases and pests, it's important to rotate your crops each year. This means planting different crops in different areas of your garden each season. When rotating your crops, make sure to keep track of where you planted each crop so that you can avoid planting the same crop in the same area for at least three years.

Maintain Good Garden Hygiene

Good garden hygiene is essential for preventing the spread of pests and diseases. Make sure to remove any dead or diseased plant material from your garden regularly. Additionally, clean your tools and equipment before and after each use to prevent the spread of disease.

FAQs

Q: Can I plant ground cherries with tomatoes?

A: Yes, you can plant ground cherries with tomatoes. However, they should be planted at least 4 feet apart to prevent cross-pollination.

Q: Can I plant ground cherries in containers?

A: Yes, you can plant ground cherries in containers. Make sure to choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide, and use high-quality potting soil.

Q: How often should I water my ground cherry plants?

A: Ground cherry plants require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water them deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions.

Q: When should I harvest my ground cherries?

A: Ground cherries are ready to harvest when they fall off the plant or turn yellow-orange in color. Make sure to harvest them before they become overripe, as they can spoil quickly.

Q: Can I save ground cherry seeds for next year?

A: Yes, you can save ground cherry seeds for next year. To do this, allow the fruit to ripen fully on the plant, then remove the seeds and allow them to dry completely. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them.