The Best Companion Plants for Garlic

Oleh Anonymous December 01, 2021 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

If you're growing garlic in your garden, you might be wondering what other plants you can grow alongside it. Companion planting is a great way to maximize your garden space, improve soil health, and deter pests. In this article, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for garlic.

Companion Plants for Garlic

Basil

Basil is an excellent companion plant for garlic because it repels many common pests, including aphids, mites, and tomato hornworms. Additionally, basil's strong scent helps to mask the smell of garlic, which may attract unwanted attention from pests. Plus, it's a delicious herb that you can use in a variety of recipes.

To plant basil with garlic, simply scatter the seeds around the base of your garlic plants. Be sure to keep the soil moist and well-drained, and provide plenty of sunlight.

Peas

Peas are also a good companion plant for garlic because they fix nitrogen in the soil. This means that they take nitrogen from the air and store it in their roots, which can then be used by other plants in the area. Additionally, peas help to improve soil structure and moisture retention.

To plant peas with garlic, sow the seeds directly into the soil in early spring, around the same time that you plant your garlic cloves. Be sure to provide support for the pea plants, such as a trellis or stakes.

Carrots

Carrots make a good companion plant for garlic because they have shallow roots that don't compete with garlic for nutrients. Additionally, carrot fly, a common pest of carrots, is repelled by the scent of garlic. Carrots also help to improve soil structure and moisture retention.

To plant carrots with garlic, sow the seeds directly into the soil in early spring, around the same time that you plant your garlic cloves. Be sure to keep the soil moist and well-drained, and thin the seedlings as they grow so that each carrot has enough space to develop.

Lettuce

Lettuce is a great companion plant for garlic because it helps to conserve moisture in the soil and provides shade for the garlic plants. Additionally, lettuce can be harvested before the garlic is ready, making efficient use of garden space.

To plant lettuce with garlic, sow the seeds directly into the soil in early spring, around the same time that you plant your garlic cloves. Be sure to provide plenty of water and fertilizer, as lettuce is a heavy feeder.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a good companion plant for garlic because they repel many common pests, including aphids, whiteflies, and hornworms. Additionally, garlic helps to repel spider mites, which can be a problem for tomatoes.

To plant tomatoes with garlic, wait until the garlic is established before planting the tomato seedlings. Be sure to provide support for the tomato plants, such as a trellis or stakes, and prune them regularly to encourage air flow.

Other Companion Plants for Garlic

There are many other plants that make good companions for garlic, including:

Chives
Cilantro
Dill
Parsley
Radishes
Spinach

In there are many plants that make great companion plants for garlic. By planting these plants alongside your garlic, you can improve soil health, deter pests, and maximize your garden space. Be sure to choose plants that have similar growing requirements and that complement each other well.

FAQs

Q: Can I plant garlic with onions?

A: Yes, garlic and onions make good companions because they both repel pests and have similar growing requirements.

Q: Can I plant garlic with potatoes?

A: No, garlic and potatoes should not be planted together because they are both susceptible to the same diseases, such as blight.

Q: How far apart should I plant garlic cloves?

A: Garlic cloves should be planted about 4-6 inches apart, and the rows should be spaced about 1 foot apart.

Q: When is the best time to plant garlic?

A: Garlic should be planted in the fall, around 4-6 weeks before the first frost. This allows the garlic to develop roots before winter sets in.

Q: How do I harvest garlic?

A: Garlic is ready to harvest when the leaves turn yellow and begin to dry out. Carefully dig up the bulbs with a garden fork, being careful not to damage them.