Companion planting 101
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Q: Being a newbie to veggie gardening, I have started off my new raised garden beds this summer. I'm really interested in companion planting and have been told that marigold does wonders when planted around the outside of the veggie bed. What other plants could I use in conjunction with my veggies and which plants affect each other positively or adversely? –Ronja
A: Companion planting has been used by gardeners since time began. The idea is basically finding plants that are mutually beneficial to one another in some way. There are a number of benefits to be gained by planting companions such as a greater yield, improved flavour and deterring pests.
Another side to companion planting is that by planting flowering plants with your veggies you can attract beneficial insects which then eat the pests and pollinate your crops. I have had great success the past few summers growing the flowering annual cleome or spider plant amongst my tomatoes and zucchini; it seems to ward off the green shield bugs.
Marigold and calendula, borage and nasturtiums, thyme and viola are all a must for your edible garden as they attract pollinating insects. These flowers are all edible and look stunning added to a green salad. Fragrant herbs such as basil planted between tomatoes or onions grown with carrots will help deter pests and disease using scent.
There are plenty of books with detailed information on companion planting. Start with a few such as planting basil with your tomatoes this summer. At the end of the day, ensuring diversity in your garden will attract pollinating insects and also help to deter disease.
–Zoe Carafice
Ronja has won a bottle of Seasol from Tui Garden Products! Seasol is a seaweed-based plant tonic that has been used by Australian and New Zealand commercial growers and home gardeners for over 30 years.
The naturally occurring growth stimulants in Seasol promote strong root growth, reduce transplant shock, improve germination rates and increase flowering and fruiting capacity.
Meet Good's new gardening expert
Zoe Carafice is a landscape designer and photographer. She won gold at the Ellerslie Flower Show in 2007 and has a keen interest in sustainable design and organic gardening.
Email your gardening questions to editor@good.net.nz and every question answered in Good or on Zoe's blog will receive a fab prize from Tui Garden Products!
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Fri January 18, 2013 @ 11:36 AM
