Companion Plants for Strawberries: How to Boost Your Harvest

Oleh Anonymous January 06, 2022 Post a Comment

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Strawberries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be grown in gardens, pots, or hanging baskets. They are also an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber. However, growing strawberries can be challenging, especially if you want to maximize your harvest. One way to achieve this is by planting companion plants alongside your strawberries. In this article, we will explore the best companion plants for strawberries and how they can help boost your yield.

Companion Plants for Strawberries

Companion planting involves growing plants together that benefit each other in some way. When it comes to strawberries, there are several companion plants that can help enhance their growth and productivity. Here are some of the most effective ones:

1. Borage

Borage is a herb that attracts bees and other pollinators to your garden. This is particularly important for strawberries, as they rely on pollination to produce fruit. Borage also helps repel pests such as tomato hornworms, which can damage strawberry plants.

How to plant borage with strawberries:

Plant borage seeds around the edge of your strawberry patch, or intersperse them among your strawberry plants. Borage grows quickly and easily, so it shouldn't take long to establish.

2. Thyme

Thyme is another herb that can benefit strawberries. It has antibacterial properties that can help deter pests and diseases, and its scent can also repel mosquitoes and other insects.

How to plant thyme with strawberries:

Plant thyme near your strawberry plants, either in a pot or in the ground. Thyme prefers well-draining soil and full sun, so make sure it gets enough light.

3. Nasturtium

Nasturtium is a flowering plant that can help repel aphids, whiteflies, and other pests that can damage strawberries. It also attracts bees and other pollinators to your garden.

How to plant nasturtium with strawberries:

Plant nasturtium seeds around the edge of your strawberry patch, or intersperse them among your strawberry plants. Nasturtium prefers well-draining soil and partial shade, so make sure it gets enough water.

4. Chives

Chives are another herb that can benefit strawberries. They have natural insect-repelling properties and can deter pests such as aphids and thrips.

How to plant chives with strawberries:

Plant chives near your strawberry plants, either in a pot or in the ground. Chives prefer well-draining soil and partial shade, so make sure they get enough water.

5. Marigold

Marigold is a flowering plant that can help deter pests such as nematodes, which can damage strawberry roots. It also attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs, which can help keep other pests under control.

How to plant marigold with strawberries:

Plant marigold seeds around the edge of your strawberry patch, or intersperse them among your strawberry plants. Marigold grows quickly and easily, so it shouldn't take long to establish.

Other Tips for Growing Strawberries

In addition to companion planting, there are several other things you can do to help your strawberries thrive. Here are some tips:

1. Plant in Well-Draining Soil

Strawberries prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, add compost or other organic material to improve its texture.

2. Water Regularly

Strawberries need consistent moisture to produce fruit. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells, and make sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.

3. Mulch

Mulching around your strawberry plants can help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from growing. Use a natural mulch such as straw or leaves.

4. Fertilize

Fertilize your strawberries with an organic fertilizer high in phosphorus, which can help promote flowering and fruiting. Avoid using too much nitrogen, which can encourage leaf growth at the expense of fruit production.

FAQs

1. Can you grow strawberries and tomatoes together?

Yes, strawberries and tomatoes can be grown together. However, they have different nutrient requirements, so it's best to plant them in separate areas or containers.

2. What vegetables are good companions for strawberries?

Vegetables that are good companions for strawberries include lettuce, spinach, and beans. These plants don't compete for the same nutrients as strawberries and can help repel pests.

3. Should you prune strawberry plants?

Yes, pruning strawberry plants can help increase their productivity. Remove any dead or diseased leaves, as well as runners that are taking energy away from fruit production.

4. Can you grow strawberries indoors?

Yes, strawberries can be grown indoors in pots or hanging baskets. They require plenty of light and consistent moisture to thrive.

5. How often should you fertilize strawberry plants?

You should fertilize strawberry plants once a month during the growing season, using an organic fertilizer high in phosphorus.

Companion planting can be a great way to boost your strawberry harvest and keep pests under control. By planting herbs and flowers alongside your strawberries, you can create a healthy and productive garden that benefits both you and the environment.