10 Proven Garden Techniques to Reduce Chemicals: Discover Companion Planting (Chapter 9)
As any experienced gardener knows, it's far better to garden with allies than go it alone—just ask the tomato thriving in the veggie patch!
Companion plants, also called companion crops, harness nature's synergy for healthier gardens.
Plants supporting plants: mutual aid in action. Through root-excreted substances, repellent or attractive scents from flowers and foliage, complementary root systems, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria, neighboring plants bolster each other.
Understanding these interactions empowers prevention of pest attacks. For instance, nasturtium lures aphids—drawing in their predators—while beans deter Colorado potato beetles, and carrots repel onion flies. Thoughtfully pairing plants creates a natural barrier against pests.
Classic synergies include parsley with asparagus, asparagus with basil, basil with tomatoes, tomatoes with onions, onions with lettuce, and lettuce with radishes.
Nature has its conflicts too. Beans, peas, and fava beans host root bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen into plant-usable forms, eliminating the need for fertilizers. However, alliums (garlic, onions, leeks, chives) release root bactericides that destroy these vital microbes if planted nearby or in recently used bean plots.
Organic and biodynamic gardeners swear by these associations, even when the exact mechanisms elude us. Why not leverage plants' natural teamwork?
1. the plant adapted to its environment
2. Biodiversity
3. soil fertility
4. Irrigation management
5. mulching
6. Managing invasive plants
7. the right gestures at the right times
8. The right tool, adapted, maintained
9. Companion plants
10. Crop rotation: 2 years of vacation!
Conclusion
