Unbeetable Companions: What to Plant with Your Beets

Oleh Anonymous November 04, 2022 Post a Comment

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Companions to Beets

Beets are a versatile and nutritious root vegetable that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, planting the right companions alongside your beets can take your garden to the next level. In this article, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for beets and why they work so well together.

Why Companion Planting Matters

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together in a mutually beneficial way. When correctly, companion planting can help improve soil health, reduce pests and diseases, and increase yields. By choosing the right companions for your beets, you can create a thriving ecosystem that supports healthy growth and development.

Best Companions for Beets

Here are some of the most effective companions for beets:

1. Carrots

Carrots and beets make great companions because they have similar growing requirements and their roots won't compete with each other. Additionally, carrots can help break up compacted soil, making it easier for beets to grow.

2. Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic can help repel pests and diseases that may attack your beets. They also release compounds into the soil that can help improve soil health and fertility.

3. Cabbage Family Plants

Plants in the cabbage family, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale, can help repel pests like cabbage worms and aphids that can damage your beets. Additionally, these plants are heavy feeders and can help improve soil fertility.

Companions to Avoid

While some plants make great companions for beets, others should be avoided. Here are a few plants that may not work well with beets:

1. Pole Beans

Pole beans and beets have different growing requirements and their roots can compete with each other for nutrients. Additionally, pole beans can attract pests like leafhoppers that can damage your beets.

2. Fennel

Fennel can release compounds into the soil that can inhibit the growth of other plants, including beets. If you do choose to plant fennel near your beets, make sure to give them plenty of space to avoid competition.

3. Mustard Family Plants

Plants in the mustard family, such as arugula and mustard greens, can attract pests like flea beetles that can damage your beets. Additionally, these plants can release compounds into the soil that can inhibit the growth of other plants.

Other Tips for Companion Planting with Beets

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when planting companions with beets:

1. Plant in Groups

Plant your beets and their companions in groups rather than in single rows. This can help create a more diverse ecosystem and reduce the risk of pests and diseases spreading.

2. Rotate Your Crops

Beets and their companions should be rotated every year to prevent soil-borne diseases and pests from building up over time. This can also help maintain soil health and fertility.

3. Use Mulch

Using mulch around your beets and their companions can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Consider using organic materials like straw or leaves for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

1. Can I plant beets with tomatoes?

No, tomatoes and beets do not make good companions. Tomatoes are heavy feeders and can compete with beets for nutrients, while beets can attract pests like leaf miners that can damage your tomatoes.

2. Can I plant beets with peppers?

Yes, peppers and beets can make good companions. Peppers are not heavy feeders and can benefit from the improved soil health provided by beets.

3. How far apart should I plant my beets and their companions?

The spacing will depend on the specific plants you're growing. Be sure to follow the recommended spacing guidelines for each plant to avoid overcrowding.

4. Can I plant beets with other root vegetables?

Yes, beets can be planted with other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and turnips. These plants have similar growing requirements and can support each other's growth.

5. Do I need to fertilize my beets and their companions?

It depends on your soil quality and the specific plants you're growing. Consider conducting a soil test to determine if you need to add any additional nutrients to your garden.

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