What is Companion Planting?

Companion planting is a horticultural practice which involves planting two or more plant species together, usually with the goal of creating a mutually beneficial situation for both, or with the idea of promoting better growing conditions for a cash crop. Numerous examples of companion planting can be seen throughout history, including the notable “three sisters” of the Americas: beans, corn, and squash. This gardening technique is used by some organic gardeners who wish to grow a healthy garden naturally, and some larger farming concerns also utilize companion planting to increase crop efficiency and yields. A number of different goals can be accomplished with companion planting. For example, a gardener might use companion planting to create a trap crop which draws insects, slugs, and other pests away from a more desirable cash crop. Nasturtiums, for instance, are very popular with moths and slugs, and since they have minimal commercial value, they make a great trap crop for things ...  more

basically, it is the idea of planting certain plants together so they can benefit from one another.  more

Companion planting is based on the idea that when planted in groupings, plants can assist in the over- all well being of the garden. For example; some plants add nitrogen into the soil that is needed for the healthy growth of other plants. Beneficial insets are attracted to certain types of plants, and some plants repel insects. Other plants can provide protection from the sun and wind for more delicate plants. Some weeds have a beneficial quality also. The benefits of companion planting include a natural method of pest control, a higher produce yield, and a garden that is visually more appealing. With the exception of fennel, most herbs planted in or near vegetable beds will have a beneficial effect. Try planting herbs at the corners of beds to ward off flies and various insects and to attract bees. The following charts have been created to help in your research of companion planting: Good (and bad) companion plants. Beneficial herbs. Attracting beneficial insects. Plants beneficial ...  more

Throughout history, gardeners have noticed that certain plants grow better when planted near others. For selected vegetables and flowers, the vigor, flavor and productivity are improved. Not only can they improve the quality of the plants but, if planted near the wrong plant, the opposite effect can happen and the plants can become stunted or die. Companion planting also plays a role in deterring pests and attracting beneficial insects that prey on the pests.  more