Geranium Companion Vegetables: Enhancing Your Garden with These Perfect Pairings

Oleh Anonymous June 19, 2022 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

When it comes to gardening, choosing the right plants to grow together can make all the difference. Companion planting is a technique where certain plants are grown together for their mutual benefit. In this blog post, we'll explore how geraniums can be used as companion plants and which vegetables they pair well with.

The Benefits of Geraniums as Companion Plants

Geraniums are known for their beautiful blooms and pleasant fragrance, but did you know they also have benefits as companion plants? Here are some ways geraniums can enhance your garden:

Natural Pest Repellent

Geraniums contain a natural chemical called citronella, which acts as a mosquito and insect repellent. By planting geraniums near your vegetable garden, you can naturally deter pests without using harmful chemicals.

Soil Enrichment

Geraniums are heavy feeders and require nutrient-rich soil to thrive. When planted alongside vegetables, they can help enrich the soil by drawing in nutrients from deeper layers and releasing them when they die back at the end of the season.

Attracting Pollinators

Geraniums produce nectar that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Having pollinators in your garden is essential for a good crop yield, so planting geraniums can increase the number of pollinators visiting your garden.

Vegetables That Pair Well with Geraniums

Now that we know the benefits of using geraniums as companion plants, let's take a look at some vegetables that pair well with them.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes and geraniums are a classic pairing. Geraniums repel hornworms, which are a common pest that can damage tomato plants. Additionally, the scent of geraniums can help deter whiteflies, which can spread diseases to tomato plants.

Cabbage

Cabbage and geraniums are another great pairing. Geraniums can repel cabbage worms, which are notorious for eating holes in cabbage leaves. Additionally, the strong scent of geraniums can mask the smell of cabbage, making it harder for pests to locate the plants.

Peppers

Peppers and geraniums also have a beneficial relationship. Geraniums can repel aphids and spider mites, which are common pests that can damage pepper plants. Additionally, the flowers of geraniums can attract predatory insects that feed on these pests.

Other Companion Plants to Consider

While geraniums are excellent companion plants, there are other plants you can grow alongside your vegetables for added benefits. Here are a few more to consider:

Marigolds

Marigolds are known for their bright orange and yellow blooms, but they also have benefits as companion plants. They can repel nematodes, which are microscopic worms that can damage vegetable roots. Additionally, marigolds can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which feed on aphids and other pests.

Basil

Basil is a popular herb that has a strong scent that can help deter pests. It's especially effective at repelling flies and mosquitoes. Additionally, planting basil near tomatoes can increase their flavor and yield.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a beautiful flowering plant that can also be used as a companion plant. They can attract predatory insects that feed on aphids, whiteflies, and other pests. Additionally, nasturtiums can help repel squash bugs and cucumber beetles.

FAQs

Q: Can I plant geraniums in the same pot as my vegetables?

A: Yes, you can! Geraniums can be grown in pots alongside vegetables for added benefits.

Q: How many geraniums should I plant per vegetable?

A: It depends on the size of your garden and the number of vegetables you're growing. As a general rule, plant one geranium for every four to five vegetable plants.

Q: Do all types of geraniums have the same benefits as companion plants?

A: No, not all geraniums have the same benefits. Look for scented geraniums, which contain higher levels of citronella and are more effective at deterring pests.

Q: When is the best time to plant geraniums with vegetables?

A: The best time to plant geraniums with vegetables is in the spring after the threat of frost has passed.

Q: Can geraniums harm my vegetables in any way?

A: No, geraniums do not harm vegetables in any way. However, make sure to water them separately, as geraniums require more water than most vegetables.

In using geraniums as companion plants can provide natural pest control, soil enrichment, and attract pollinators to your garden. Pairing them with vegetables like tomatoes, cabbage, and peppers can enhance their growth and yield. Consider adding other companion plants like marigolds, basil, and nasturtiums for added benefits. Happy gardening!