Bell Pepper Companion Plants: Growing Tips and Plant Pairings

Oleh Anonymous December 27, 2021 Post a Comment

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Bell Pepper Companion Plants: An

If you're an avid gardener, you know how important it is to choose the right companion plants for your crops. The right plant companions can help improve soil health, increase pollination, and deter pests. One crop that benefits from good companion planting is bell peppers.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at companion planting for bell peppers. We'll discuss the best plant pairings for bell peppers, as well as growing tips to help you get the most out of your garden.

The Best Bell Pepper Companion Plants

When it comes to companion planting for bell peppers, there are several plants that work well together. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes and bell peppers make great companion plants because they have similar nutrient needs. Plus, tomatoes release solanine, which helps repel pests like aphids and spider mites.

When planting tomatoes and bell peppers together, be sure to give each plant enough space to grow. Tomatoes should be planted about 18 inches away from bell peppers.

2. Basil

Basil is another great companion plant for bell peppers. It releases oils that help repel pests like whiteflies and thrips, and it also attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

Plant basil near your bell peppers to help protect them from pests. You can even use fresh basil leaves in your cooking!

3. Marigolds

Marigolds are a classic companion plant that work well with just about any crop. They release a chemical called alpha-terthienyl, which helps repel root-knot nematodes and other soil-borne pests.

Plant marigolds near your bell peppers to help improve soil health and deter pests. You can also use the flowers as a natural insect repellent!

4. Onions

Onions are another great companion plant for bell peppers. They release sulfur compounds that help repel pests like aphids and thrips, and they also improve soil health by adding organic matter.

When planting onions and bell peppers together, be sure to give each plant enough space to grow. Onions should be planted about 6 inches away from bell peppers.

Growing Tips for Bell Peppers

In addition to choosing the right companion plants, there are several growing tips that can help you get the most out of your bell pepper crop. Here are a few to keep in mind:

1. Choose the Right Location

Bell peppers need plenty of sunlight to thrive, so be sure to choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They also prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

2. Plant at the Right Time

Bell peppers should be planted after the last frost date in your area. In most regions, this is late spring or early summer. Be sure to check your local climate and planting schedule to ensure the best results.

3. Water Regularly

Bell peppers need consistent moisture to produce healthy fruit. Water them deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can increase the risk of disease.

4. Fertilize as Needed

Bell peppers are heavy feeders, so be sure to fertilize them regularly with a balanced fertilizer. You can also add compost or other organic matter to the soil to improve fertility.

FAQ

1. Can I plant bell peppers and eggplants together?

Yes, bell peppers and eggplants make good companion plants because they have similar nutrient needs.

2. What should I avoid planting near my bell peppers?

Avoid planting fennel or other members of the Apiaceae family near your bell peppers, as they can attract pests like aphids and spider mites.

3. How often should I harvest my bell peppers?

Harvest bell peppers when they reach their full size and color. This will vary depending on the variety of pepper you're growing.

4. How do I store bell peppers after harvesting?

Bell peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for later use.

5. Can I grow bell peppers in containers?

Yes, bell peppers can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system. Be sure to choose a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.

Companion planting is an important part of any successful garden, and bell peppers are no exception. By choosing the right companion plants and following a few simple growing tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, healthy bell peppers. Happy gardening!