Plants That Thrive Alongside Strawberries

Oleh Anonymous January 30, 2023 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

Strawberries are a popular fruit that can be grown in gardens, containers, and even hanging baskets. They are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins and antioxidants. However, growing strawberries alone is not enough; they need companions that help improve the soil quality, resist pests and diseases, and increase yields. In this article, we will explore some of the best plants to grow alongside strawberries.

Companion Plants for Strawberries

Borage

Borage is an annual herb that attracts bees and other beneficial insects to the garden. Its blue flowers provide a beautiful contrast to the red strawberries, and its leaves add minerals and trace elements to the soil. Borage is also said to improve the flavor of strawberries when grown nearby. Plant borage seeds in early spring, 6-8 inches apart, and watch them thrive.

Nasturtium

Nasturtium is another annual plant that complements strawberries well. Its colorful flowers and foliage create a lovely visual effect, and its peppery leaves deter aphids, whiteflies, and cucumber beetles. Nasturtium also repels woolly aphids, which can damage strawberry plants. Sow nasturtium seeds directly in the soil after the last frost.

Chives

Chives are a perennial herb that can be grown as a border around strawberry beds. Their purple flowers attract pollinators, and their leaves have a mild onion flavor that adds zest to salads and soups. Chives also produce sulfur, which helps prevent fungal diseases in strawberries. Plant chive bulbs in fall, 6-8 inches apart.

Garlic

Garlic is a bulbous herb that repels several pests, including spider mites and Japanese beetles, that can harm strawberry plants. Garlic also has antifungal properties that protect strawberries from rot and mildew. Plant garlic cloves in fall, 2-3 inches deep, and keep the soil moist until they sprout.

Marigold

Marigold is an annual flower that contains pyrethrin, a natural insecticide that kills or repels many garden pests, such as nematodes, aphids, and thrips. Marigolds also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. Plant marigold seeds in spring, 6-12 inches apart, and deadhead the flowers to promote more blooms.

Lupine

Lupine is a perennial flower that enriches the soil with nitrogen, a vital nutrient for strawberries. Lupine also attracts bees and hummingbirds, which help pollinate the strawberries. Plant lupine seeds in early spring or late summer, 8-12 inches apart, and water them regularly.

Comfrey

Comfrey is a perennial herb that accumulates potassium, phosphorus, and calcium in its leaves, which can be used as a fertilizer for strawberries. Comfrey also has deep roots that break up compacted soil and improve drainage. Plant comfrey cuttings in spring or fall, 24-36 inches apart, and let them establish before harvesting the leaves.

Clover

Clover is a low-growing legume that fixes nitrogen in the soil, reduces erosion, and attracts pollinators. Clover can also shade the ground around the strawberries and reduce weed growth. Plant clover seeds in early spring or late summer, 4-6 inches apart, and mow them occasionally to prevent them from overtaking the strawberries.

Thyme

Thyme is a perennial herb that repels several pests, including slugs, snails, and cabbage worms, that can damage strawberry plants. Thyme also has antifungal properties that protect strawberries from mold and fungus. Plant thyme seedlings or cuttings in spring or fall, 8-12 inches apart, and prune them regularly to promote bushiness.

Sage

Sage is a woody herb that deters several pests, including carrot flies and cabbage moths, that can attack strawberry plants. Sage also has antibacterial properties that keep the soil healthy and free of pathogens. Plant sage seedlings in spring or fall, 12-18 inches apart, and harvest the leaves for culinary uses.

Alyssum

Alyssum is an annual flower that attracts hoverflies, lacewings, and other beneficial insects that prey on aphids and other pests. Alyssum also releases a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators and creates a pleasant atmosphere in the garden. Plant alyssum seeds in early spring, 4-6 inches apart, and water them regularly.

Cucumber

Cucumber is a vining plant that covers the ground and shades the soil around the strawberries, preventing weed growth and conserving moisture. Cucumber also has shallow roots that do not compete with the deep roots of strawberries for nutrients. Plant cucumber seeds in late spring after the last frost, 12-24 inches apart, and provide them with a trellis or support.

Lettuce

Lettuce is a leafy vegetable that grows well in partial shade and can be interplanted with strawberries to maximize space and yields. Lettuce also has shallow roots that do not disturb the strawberry roots, and its leaves provide a natural mulch that retains moisture and suppresses weeds. Plant lettuce seeds in early spring or late summer, 6-12 inches apart, and harvest the outer leaves as needed.

Spinach

Spinach is another leafy vegetable that grows well with strawberries and can be harvested throughout the season. Spinach also adds iron, calcium, and other minerals to the soil, which benefit the strawberries. Plant spinach seeds in early spring or late summer, 4-6 inches apart, and keep the soil moist until they germinate.

FAQs

Q1: Can I grow strawberries and tomatoes together?

A1: Yes, you can. Both strawberries and tomatoes belong to the same family (Solanaceae) and have similar cultural requirements, such as full sun, fertile soil, and regular watering. However, make sure to space them at least 18-24 inches apart to avoid competition and disease spread.

Q2: Can I grow strawberries and blueberries together?

A2: Yes, you can. Strawberries and blueberries are both acidic-loving plants that thrive in well-drained, organic-rich soil. They also complement each other in terms of flavor and nutrition, as strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while blueberries are high in anthocyanins and fiber. Plant them in separate rows or beds, but near each other, for easier maintenance.

Q3: Can I grow strawberries and roses together?

A3: Yes, you can. Strawberries and roses share some common pests, such as aphids and spider mites, but also benefit from each other's presence. Roses attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which help fertilize the strawberries, while strawberries provide a groundcover that prevents soil erosion and weed growth. However, avoid planting them too close together, as roses have deep roots that may compete with the shallow roots of strawberries.

Q4: Can I grow strawberries in containers?

A4: Yes, you can. Strawberries are ideal for container gardening, as they don't require much space and can be grown on patios, balconies, or windowsills. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and 8 inches deep, and fill it with a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Plant one strawberry plant per pot, and water it regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.

Q5: How do I protect my strawberries from pests and diseases?

A5: There are several ways to prevent and control pests and diseases in strawberries. One is to rotate the crops every 2-3 years to avoid soil-borne pathogens and pests. Another is to mulch the plants with straw or leaves to keep the fruits clean and moist. You can also use natural repellents like garlic, onion, or pepper spray, or release beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings to prey on aphids and other pests. Finally, remove any infected or damaged plants immediately, and dispose of them properly to avoid further contamination.

In growing strawberries with companion plants is a smart and sustainable way to boost their health, productivity, and beauty. By selecting the right plants, you can create a diverse and harmonious garden that benefits both the environment and your taste buds. So why not try some of these plants this season and see how they enhance your strawberry patch? Happy gardening!