- -GARDEN COLUMN Marigolds are drought resistant. (Derek Davis/ The Patent Trader 6/20/02)
Plants that enjoy similar growing conditions can make great neighbors. Lettuce and radishes both grow quickly and do well planted together.
A classic example of companion planting is the Native American technique called the 'Three Sisters,' which combines corn, squash and beans. The low-growing squash vines act as a mulch to deter weeds. The corn provides a stalk for the bean vines to climb, and the beans add nitrogen to the soil for the following season. / Staff
Q: What are companion plants? What are the benefits of using companion plants in my vegetable garden?
A: Companion plants are exactly what they sound like — plants that grow well together and provide some benefit to one another without competing for resources like sunlight and nutrients.
While there are few scientific studies to validate the effects of various plantings, many combinations have been used successfully for generations. Companion planting may help you make effective use of your growing area, attract beneficial insects, deter damaging pests and enhance the beauty of the landscape.
A classic example of companion planting is the Native American technique called the “Three Sisters,” which combines corn, squash and beans. The squash vines low to the ground act as a mulch to deter weeds and prevent moisture loss. The corn provides a stalk for the bean vines to climb, and the beans add nitrogen to the soil for the following planting season.
Companion plants can be an effective enhancement to nontoxic methods of pest control. Borage and nasturtium are compatible with tomatoes and can trap or deter pest insects. Plants that enjoy similar growing conditions can make great neighbors. Lettuce and radishes both grow quickly and do well planted together.
Marigolds are a popular companion plant. Not only do they add vibrant color, when planted en masse, they may also deter a host of unwanted insects. At the same time, marigolds attract slugs, proving that while companion planting can be an asset to your garden, knowing the trade-offs of some choices and which plants are not compatible with each other is equally as important.
Keep a record of what you plant every year to track the impact different companion planting combinations are making in your garden, and take into account your garden’s growing conditions and overall health when determining successes and failures. Through trial and error, you will find which plants make the most effective and productive neighbors in your garden.
— Jessica Kesselman, Piermont, master gardener with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rockland