Bad Companion Plants for Garlic: What to Avoid

Oleh Anonymous January 31, 2022 Post a Comment

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When it comes to gardening, knowing which plants to grow together can make all the difference in the success of your crop. Companion planting is a method used by gardeners to increase productivity and deter pests. While there are many plants that complement garlic and enhance its growth, some plants can actually be harmful. In this article, we will explore the bad companion plants for garlic and why they should be avoided.

Garlic: The Superfood of the Garden

The Benefits of Growing Garlic

Garlic is a versatile and nutritious plant that has been used for centuries for medicinal and culinary purposes. It's easy to grow, requires little maintenance, and can be used in a variety of dishes. But did you know that garlic is also a natural pesticide? When planted with certain crops, it can repel pests and protect neighboring plants.

Companion Plants for Garlic

There are several plants that complement garlic and enhance its growth. Some of these include:

Tomatoes
Lettuce
Peppers
Carrots
Spinach
Broccoli
Cabbage

These plants have different nutrient requirements than garlic, so they are not competing for the same resources. They also help deter pests and disease, and can improve soil health.

Bad Companion Plants for Garlic

Mint

Mint is a popular herb that is often planted in herb gardens. However, it should not be planted near garlic. Mint contains oils that can inhibit the growth of garlic and other plants in the Allium family, such as onions and chives. Additionally, mint is a fast-growing plant that can quickly take over a garden bed, leaving little room for other plants to grow.

Beans

While beans are a nutritious and easy-to-grow crop, they should not be planted near garlic. Beans are nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by plants. However, this process can actually deplete the soil of other nutrients, such as sulfur, which is essential for garlic growth. In addition, beans attract pests that can damage garlic bulbs.

Parsley

Parsley is another herb that should not be planted near garlic. Like mint, parsley contains oils that can inhibit the growth of garlic and other Allium plants. It can also attract pests and disease that can harm garlic bulbs. However, planting parsley in a different part of the garden can still be beneficial, as it is a natural insect repellent.

Peas

Peas are a popular vegetable that are often grown in cool weather. While they are easy to grow and nutritious, they should not be planted near garlic. Peas are nitrogen-fixing plants, like beans, and can deplete the soil of other important nutrients. They can also attract pests that can harm garlic bulbs.

Onions

While onions and garlic are both members of the Allium family, they should not be planted together. Onions have similar nutrient requirements as garlic, so they will compete for the same resources in the soil. Additionally, onions can attract pests and diseases that can harm garlic bulbs.

Companion planting can be a great way to improve the productivity and health of your garden. However, it's important to know which plants not to grow together. Avoid planting mint, beans, parsley, peas, and onions near garlic, as they can inhibit growth, deplete soil nutrients, attract pests and diseases, or compete for resources.

FAQs:

Q: Can I plant garlic near herbs?

A: Yes! Garlic grows well near many herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and sage. These herbs can deter pests and disease and improve soil health.

Q: Can I plant garlic near tomatoes?

A: Yes! Tomatoes are a great companion plant for garlic. They have different nutrient requirements, and can help deter pests and disease.

Q: Can I plant garlic near strawberries?

A: Yes! Strawberries and garlic are compatible plants. Strawberries are a low-growing crop that can benefit from the natural pesticide properties of garlic.

Q: Can I plant garlic near cucumbers?

A: No. Cucumbers can attract pests that can harm garlic bulbs. Additionally, cucumbers have similar nutrient requirements as garlic, so they will compete for the same resources in the soil.

Q: Can I plant garlic near potatoes?

A: No. Potatoes and garlic are both members of the nightshade family, and can attract similar pests and diseases. Additionally, potatoes have similar nutrient requirements as garlic, so they will compete for the same resources in the soil.