Companion Plants for Garlic Chives: The Ultimate Guide

Oleh Anonymous June 24, 2023 Post a Comment

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Garlic chives, also known as Chinese chives, are a versatile and flavorful herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are easy to grow and care for, making them a popular choice among gardeners. But did you know that planting them alongside certain other plants can yield even better results? In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the best companion plants for garlic chives.

Companion Plants for Garlic Chives

Basil

Basil is a great companion plant for garlic chives because it helps to repel pests such as aphids and mosquitoes. Additionally, basil has a similar growth habit and likes similar growing conditions to garlic chives, so they make great neighbors in the garden. Plant basil around the edges of your garlic chive bed or intersperse it throughout.

Carrots

Carrots and garlic chives are a match made in heaven. Not only do they have similar growing conditions, but planting carrots alongside garlic chives can actually improve their flavor. Carrots release a chemical called exudates that can help to suppress soil-borne diseases, which can benefit the garlic chives too.

Cilantro

Cilantro, also known as coriander, is another great companion plant for garlic chives. Like basil, cilantro can help to repel pests such as aphids and spider mites. Additionally, cilantro has a shallow root system, which means it won't compete with garlic chives for nutrients. Plant cilantro near your garlic chive bed to enjoy the benefits of this flavorful herb.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers and garlic chives are a great pair because they have similar growing conditions. Cucumbers are also good at attracting pollinators such as bees, which can benefit both plants. Plant cucumbers near your garlic chive bed or trellis them up the same support structure as your garlic chives.

Dill

Dill is a natural companion plant for garlic chives because it attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help to control pests in your garden. Additionally, dill has a deep taproot that can help to break up soil and improve soil health. Plant dill near your garlic chive bed or use it as a border plant.

Lettuce

Lettuce and garlic chives are another great pairing because they have similar growing conditions. Additionally, planting lettuce near garlic chives can help to shade the soil and keep it cool, which can be beneficial during hot summer months. Plant lettuce around the edges of your garlic chive bed or intersperse it throughout.

Mint

Mint is a great companion plant for garlic chives because it helps to repel pests such as ants and flea beetles. Additionally, mint has a shallow root system that won't compete with garlic chives for nutrients. However, be careful not to plant mint too close to your garlic chives because it can be invasive.

Onions

Onions and garlic chives are a natural pairing because they are both members of the allium family. Planting onions near garlic chives can help to deter pests such as onion maggots and thrips. Additionally, onions release a chemical called allicin, which can help to suppress soil-borne diseases that can affect garlic chives.

Peas

Peas and garlic chives are a great combination because they have similar growing conditions. Additionally, peas are good at fixing nitrogen in the soil, which can benefit both plants. Plant peas near your garlic chive bed or use them as a trellis for your garlic chives to climb up.

Radishes

Radishes and garlic chives are another natural pairing because they have similar growing conditions. Additionally, radishes are good at breaking up compacted soil, which can improve soil health for garlic chives. Plant radishes around the edges of your garlic chive bed or intersperse them throughout.

Spinach

Spinach and garlic chives are a great combination because they have similar growing conditions. Additionally, spinach is good at attracting beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help to control pests in your garden. Plant spinach near your garlic chive bed or use it as a border plant.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes and garlic chives are a great pair because they have complementary growth habits. Tomatoes are tall and require support, while garlic chives are shorter and bushier. Plant tomatoes near your garlic chive bed or use them as a trellis for your garlic chives to climb up.

Zucchini

Zucchini and garlic chives are another great combination because they have similar growing conditions. Additionally, zucchini is good at attracting pollinators such as bees, which can benefit both plants. Plant zucchini near your garlic chive bed or trellis them up the same support structure as your garlic chives.

How to Plant Companion Plants for Garlic Chives

When planting companion plants for garlic chives, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be sure to choose plants that have similar growing conditions and won't compete with garlic chives for nutrients. Additionally, make sure to give each plant enough space to grow and thrive.

When planting companion plants, you can either intersperse them throughout your garlic chive bed or plant them around the edges. You can also use companion plants as a border around your garlic chive bed to create a beautiful and functional garden.

FAQs

Q1: How do I care for garlic chives?

A: Garlic chives are easy to care for. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun to part shade. Water them regularly and fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer.

Q2: Can I grow garlic chives indoors?

A: Yes, garlic chives can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights. Be sure to provide them with well-draining soil and water regularly.

Q3: How do I harvest garlic chives?

A: To harvest garlic chives, simply cut the leaves at the base using a pair of scissors or pruning shears. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant at a time.

Q4: How do I store garlic chives?

A: Garlic chives can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze them, chop them into small pieces and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to six months.

Q5: Can garlic chives be used in cooking?

A: Yes, garlic chives are a flavorful herb that can be used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, and stir-fries.

Garlic chives are a versatile and flavorful herb that can be grown alongside a variety of companion plants. By planting them alongside beneficial companions, you can improve soil health, deter pests, and yield even better results. With these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and functional garden.