Companion Plants for Morning Glory: Boost Your Garden's Beauty and Health

Oleh Anonymous February 02, 2024 Post a Comment

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The Importance of Companion Planting for Morning Glory

Morning glory is a beautiful flowering plant that adds vibrancy to any garden. However, like all plants, it has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. One way to maximize the benefits of morning glory while minimizing its drawbacks is through companion planting.

Companion planting involves growing different plants together in a mutually beneficial relationship. When right, companion planting can improve soil health, attract pollinators, and ward off pests. In this article, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for morning glory.

The Top Companion Plants for Morning Glory

1. Nasturtium

Nasturtium is an excellent companion plant for morning glory. It attracts predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Additionally, nasturtium has a pungent smell that repels harmful insects and acts as a trap crop for caterpillars.

Growing nasturtiums alongside morning glory also helps to enrich the soil. The plant's leaves and flowers are high in nutrients like phosphorus and potassium, which can benefit the surrounding plants.

2. Marigold

Marigold is another great companion plant for morning glory. It is known for its ability to deter nematodes, which are microscopic worms that damage plant roots. Marigolds also have a strong odor that repels other pests like whiteflies, aphids, and thrips.

In addition to being a natural pest repellent, marigolds add a pop of color to any garden. They come in shades of yellow, orange, and red that complement morning glory's blue-violet flowers.

3. Sweet Alyssum

Sweet alyssum is a low-growing plant that makes an excellent ground cover for morning glory. It attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps, which prey on harmful pests like aphids and whiteflies.

Sweet alyssum also has a sweet fragrance that can help mask the scent of other plants, making it harder for pests to locate them. Plus, its delicate white or pink flowers make a beautiful contrast against morning glory's bold blooms.

4. Borage

Borage is a versatile companion plant that works well with morning glory. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can improve fruit set and yield. Borage also has deep roots that help break up compacted soil and bring nutrients closer to the surface.

In addition to being a useful plant for the garden, borage is edible and has medicinal properties. Its leaves and flowers can be used to make tea or added to salads for a nutritious boost.

5. Basil

Basil is a fragrant herb that makes an excellent companion plant for morning glory. It repels harmful pests like thrips and mosquitoes while attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. Basil also has antibacterial properties that can help prevent fungal diseases from spreading.

In addition to being a natural pest repellent, basil is a delicious culinary herb. Its leaves can be used fresh or dried to add flavor to a variety of dishes, making it a must-have plant for any kitchen garden.

Other Companion Plants for Morning Glory

6. Geranium

Geraniums are known for their ability to repel Japanese beetles, which can damage morning glory leaves and flowers. They also attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps, which can help control other pests.

7. Cosmos

Cosmos is a beautiful flowering plant that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden. It also has a deep root system that can help break up compacted soil and improve drainage.

8. Dill

Dill is an herb that repels harmful pests like aphids and spider mites while attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. It is also edible and can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes.

9. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are a tall and vibrant plant that attracts pollinators and provides shade for morning glory on hot days. They also have deep roots that can help break up compacted soil and bring nutrients closer to the surface.

10. Chives

Chives are a fragrant herb that repels harmful pests like aphids and thrips while attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. They are also edible and can be used to add flavor to soups, salads, and other dishes.

Tips for Successful Companion Planting with Morning Glory

11. Choose plants that complement morning glory's growing habits.

Morning glory is a climbing vine that can grow up to 15 feet tall. When selecting companion plants, choose ones that won't compete with morning glory for space or light.

12. Plant companion plants close to morning glory.

Companion plants should be planted close to morning glory so that they can benefit from each other's presence. However, be careful not to overcrowd the plants, as this can lead to poor growth and disease.

13. Rotate companion plants every season.

To prevent soil-borne diseases and pests from building up, rotate companion plants every season. This will also help keep the soil healthy and nutrient-rich.

14. Water and fertilize regularly.

Companion plants need water and nutrients just like morning glory. Be sure to water and fertilize them regularly to keep them healthy and thriving.

15. Experiment with different combinations of companion plants.

Every garden is unique, so don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of companion plants until you find what works best for you and your morning glory.

FAQs About Companion Plants for Morning Glory

1. Can I plant morning glory with other vines?

Yes, morning glory can be planted with other vines as long as they have similar growing habits and don't compete for space or light.

2. Are there any plants that I should avoid planting with morning glory?

Morning glory should not be planted with plants that are prone to fungal diseases or pests. It's also best to avoid planting it with plants that have deep root systems, as this can lead to competition for nutrients.

3. How often should I water my companion plants?

Companion plants should be watered regularly, depending on their individual needs. Be sure to check the soil moisture level before watering to prevent overwatering or underwatering.

4. Can I use companion planting to control weeds?

Yes, companion planting can help control weeds by shading out weed seedlings and competing with them for nutrients.

5. What are some good companion plants for morning glory in containers?

Nasturtium, marigold, sweet alyssum, and basil are all great companion plants for morning glory in containers. They are low-growing and won't compete with morning glory for space or light.