What is companion planting?

Companion planting is an organic method of maintaining a natural balance in your garden by growing plants together that are mutually beneficial. Planted together, certain plant combinations can aid pollination, prevent disease and keep pest numbers down. Most companion plants are strongly scented and can confuse pests looking for their host plant, some have antibacterial or anti-fungal properties, while others attract beneficial insects, such as ladybirds and lacewings, which prey on aphids. Most companion planting occurs in the vegetable patch, but some ornamental plants, such as roses, can also benefit from particular plants growing nearby.

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Common plant combinations include growing nasturtium to deter aphids from beans, and planting alliums around carrots to ward off carrot root fly.

What are the benefits of companion planting?

Companion planting can help your plants to grow better and with fewer pests and diseases. Ultimately this benefits the gardener as this means less work for higher crop yields.

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