Grow Your Best Kale Garden with This Companion Planting Chart

Oleh Anonymous November 16, 2021 Post a Comment

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Kale Companion Planting Chart: The Ultimate Guide

Kale is one of the healthiest vegetables you can grow in your garden. It's packed with vitamins and minerals, and it's also a great source of fiber. However, growing kale can be challenging if you don't have the right companion plants. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about companion planting for kale, including what plants to grow alongside kale, and how to create your own kale companion planting chart.

Why Companion Planting is Important for Kale?

Companion planting is the practice of growing different types of plants together to enhance their growth and health. When it comes to kale, companion planting is essential because it can help repel pests, improve soil quality, and increase yields. For example, certain plants like marigolds can help repel pests like aphids and whiteflies, while others like beans and peas can fix nitrogen in the soil, which kale needs to grow.

The Best Companion Plants for Kale

Now that we understand the importance of companion planting let's take a look at some of the best plants to grow alongside kale:

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are one of the most popular companion plants for kale. They're easy to grow and can help repel insects like aphids, whiteflies, and cabbage worms. Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your kale bed, or scatter them throughout the garden.

2. Beans and Peas

Beans and peas are legumes that fix nitrogen in the soil, making it more available to other plants. Kale needs nitrogen to grow, so planting beans and peas alongside kale can help improve its growth and yield.

3. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are another great companion plant for kale. They attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pests like aphids and cabbage worms. Plus, they're edible, and their peppery leaves make a tasty addition to salads.

4. Alliums

Alliums like onions, garlic, and chives, can help repel pests like aphids and thrips. They also have antimicrobial properties that can help prevent soil-borne diseases.

5. Carrots

Carrots are a great companion plant for kale because they have a deep taproot that helps break up compacted soil, making it easier for kale to grow. Plus, they're a delicious and nutritious crop to grow alongside your kale.

Creating Your Own Kale Companion Planting Chart

Now that you know the best companion plants for kale let's talk about how to create your own kale companion planting chart. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Determine Your Garden Layout

The first step is to determine the layout of your garden. Decide where you want to plant your kale, and then sketch out the rest of your garden on paper. This will give you an idea of the space you have to work with, and where you can plant your companion plants.

2. Identify Your Companion Plants

Next, identify the companion plants you want to grow alongside your kale. Use the list we provided earlier as a ing point, but feel free to add your own plants as well.

3. Group Plants According to Their Benefits

Once you've identified your companion plants, group them according to their benefits. For example, group plants that repel pests together, and plants that fix nitrogen in the soil together.

4. Plot Your Plants on a Chart

Use a chart or spreadsheet to plot your plants. Create columns for each plant, and rows for each week of the growing season. This will help you keep track of when to plant each plant, and where to plant it in relation to your kale.

5. Monitor Your Garden Throughout the Season

Finally, monitor your garden throughout the season. Keep an eye out for any issues, like pest infestations or nutrient deficiencies, and adjust your companion planting chart accordingly.

Companion planting is an essential practice for growing healthy and productive kale plants. By planting the right companion plants alongside your kale, you can improve soil quality, repel pests, and increase yields. Use this guide to create your own kale companion planting chart, and watch your kale garden thrive!