12 Companion Plants for Peppers

Pepper companion plants to deter pests

The following companion plants for peppers act to mask the presence of your pepper plants, limiting a pest’s ability to find them in your garden. Most pests find their host plant through a series of cues, including both visual and olfactory (scent) cues. These two plant partnerships work by masking the volatile chemicals (odors) released by pepper plants that allow pests to discover them and feed or lay eggs.

1. Onions, scallions, and garlic for green peach aphids

Green peach aphids are among the most common pests of peppers. They feed spring through fall by sucking out plant juices, causing distorted growth, leaf yellowing, and leaf curl. Green peach aphids also transmit several plant viruses to pepper plants. Interplanting peppers with members of the allium family, including chives, onions, garlic, and scallions, has been shown to deter these small insects from settling on pepper plants to feed. Plant the allium crops around and in between your pepper plants. Or plant your peppers smack in the middle of your onion crop.

2. Basil for thrips

Tiny, slender thrips can cause big trouble on pepper plants. Their damage causes a silver, net-like appearance on the leaves, flower buds, or fruits (shown in image above). They also spread various plant diseases. They’re so small that identifying them is a challenge. Look for dead terminal shoots, tiny specks of black excrement, early fruit drop, or the net-like distortion. To deter thrips, interplant your pepper plants with basil, which has been shown to help mask pepper (and tomato) plants from thrips. The volatile chemicals released by basil plants mask those emitted from the pepper plants, making it difficult for the thrips to discover their pepper host.

Companion plants for peppers that increase biological control

Beneficial pest-eating insects play a very valuable role in the vegetable garden. Using “good bugs” to help manage “bad bugs” is known as biological control. You don’t have to purchase beneficial insects and release them into the garden (in fact, doing so is not really a useful practice for home gardeners). Instead, it’s much better to create a garden where a healthy natural population of good bugs is encouraged. Enhancing the numbers of these good bugs is one of the easiest ways to keep pest outbreaks from occurring in the first place. Using companion plants that attract and support beneficial insects is essentially putting out the welcome mat for them. When it comes to companion plants for peppers that enhance biological control, here are a handful of great options.

3. Dill, fennel, cilantro, and other members of the carrot family

Flowering herbs in the carrot family are exceptional companion plants for peppers. Their umbrella-shaped clusters of tiny flowers are ideal for supporting a broad array of predators of aphids, hornworms, bud worms, and other pepper pests. Tiny, non-stinging parasitic wasps feed on the nectar of these flowers and then go on to parasitize hornworms and other pest caterpillars. Other species of parasitic wasps parasitize aphids. Predatory insects like ladybugs and lacewings also drink nectar from members of the carrot family. In addition to feasting on aphids, some species also feed on whiteflies and other pepper pests. Plant dill, fennel, and cilantro in between and around your pepper plants. Since many of these good bugs fly, you can even plant these plants around the edge of your garden and still see positive results.

4. Sunflowers as pepper companion plants

Good ol’ sunflowers have so much to offer the garden. They’re a must-have on the list of great companion plants for peppers. Yes, they lure in pollinators, but sunflowers also enhance biological control in two ways. First, they provide nectar and pollen to beneficial pest-eating insects. Second, even when they’re not in bloom, they produce extra floral nectar (EFN) from glands on their leaf undersides. This EFN is a sweet reward for beneficial insects in exchange for managing pests. Sunflowers start producing EFN when they’re only a few inches tall. Plant lots of sunflowers in and around your pepper patch, and you’ll have plenty of good bugs around to help keep pest numbers in check.

5.Sweet alyssum and its benefits to peppers

The small blooms of this low-growing annual plant feed a whole host of good bugs that help a gardener manage pepper pests. Parasitic wasps, syrphid flies, tachinid flies, ladybugs, and lacewings are all found sipping from the blooms. And when they’re not drinking nectar, some of these beneficial insects are eating pests like aphids, whiteflies, and thrips, while others are laying their eggs in pests like hornworms, bud worms, and fruit worms. Underplant your pepper plants with a carpet of sweet alyssum. In addition to enhancing biological control, it’s also beautiful.

Companion plants for peppers that act as a trap crop for pests

Trap crops are plants chosen for their attractiveness to a targeted pest. The presence of a trap crop lures the pests away from the desired crop, protecting it from damage. A trap crop is essentially a sacrificial offering to the pest. There are several companion plants for peppers that serve as excellent trap crops.

6. Pak choi or radish for flea beetles

Flea beetles are one of the biggest pest challenges faced by gardeners. The small, ragged holes they leave behind can weaken plant growth and lead to reduced yields. Though a full-grown pepper plant tolerates flea beetle damage, a young seedling will be stunted, which can lead to delayed or reduced yields down the line. A simple trap crop of pak choi or radishes is all that’s needed to keep flea beetle damage to a minimum on your pepper plants. Flea beetles much prefer pak choi and radishes to the leaves of peppers (and eggplants and tomatoes, too). Interplant your peppers with these easy-to-grow companion plants for peppers for the best results. Sow the pak choi or radish seeds a few weeks in advance of planting the peppers into the garden.

7. Hot cherry peppers for pepper maggot flies

Pepper maggot flies lay eggs on developing peppers. The maggot tunnels into the fruit and eats the tissue inside. Most of the time gardeners don’t find pepper maggots until the fruit rots prematurely on the plant or you cut into the pepper and discover the wriggly beast inside. Research in Connecticut showed that farmers who planted a trap crop of hot cherry peppers around the outside of their bell pepper fields, had a 98 to 100 percent reduction in pepper maggot damage on the bell peppers. Pepper maggot flies much prefer hot cherry peppers to other varieties, so the damage was focused on this sacrificial variety, rather than on the bell peppers. In a home garden, plant hot cherry peppers around the periphery of your pepper patch, or plant a row on the outer edge of the garden.

8. Nasturtiums for aphids

If aphids plague your pepper plants, consider planting a nearby companion planting of nasturtiums. A favorite of aphids, the lovely round leaves of nasturtiums are much preferred by this pest. The aphids opt to feed on the nasturtiums and leave your peppers alone. Since aphids are tiny and can’t travel very far, you’ll want these two plant partners located within a foot or two of each other. As an added bonus, having lots of aphids on your nasturtiums also means you’ll be providing a consistent food source for the many beneficial insects that feed on aphids, including ladybugs, lacewings, syrphid flies, parasitic wasps, and many others. Because the population of beneficials will be high in your garden, they will also be able to help manage any aphid outbreaks elsewhere in your veggie patch, too.

Companion plants for peppers for weed control

If your garden is large and you grow a lot of peppers, you may find yourself over-run with weeds. While mulching with straw, untreated grass clippings, or shredded leaves certainly helps limit weeds, there are also some companion plants for peppers that also serve to limit weed growth. Known as a “living mulch”, these plant partners are planted in between pepper rows or on walkways, where their presence serves to displace and outcompete weeds. Be careful, though, because if you don’t mow them down regularly as specified below, they can themselves become weedy.

9. White clover as a living mulch

When used as a permanent living mulch, white clover (Trifoleum repens) reduces weeds, provides nitrogen to nearby plants, and if left to bloom, helps feed beneficial bugs and pollinators, too. Plant it between rows or veggies or in pathways since it’s a perennial and will not die back in the winter. Choose a shorter variety and mow the plants down with a mower or string trimmer several times a year. One study found that when white clover was used as a living mulch between crop rows, the weed control it provided was comparable to commercial herbicide application. It would work in much the same manner if grown between raised beds. Be sure to mow it down before the flowers turn into seed heads to keep it from becoming weedy itself.

10. Subterranean clover as a living mulch for peppers

Subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) is a winter annual cover crop that can also be used as a living mulch. It grows much like peanuts do in that pegs are formed from above-ground flowers. The pegs grow downward and into the soil where the seeds are formed. If temperatures where you live regularly dip below 15 degrees F (-9 degrees C) in the winter, subterranean clover is winter killed which keeps it from becoming weedy, as long as you mow it before the pegs are formed. In a Maryland study, a subclover living mulch controlled weeds better than conventional herbicide treatments. Mow subclover regularly throughout the growing season. This keeps it from competing with crops and prevents the pegs from developing. After the plants are winter killed, plant transplants of a new crop right through the detritus. Or, till it into the soil to add organic matter and nutrients.

Companion plants for peppers to improve the soil

Plant partnerships can also be used to help improve the soil. In some cases, the companion plants are legumes (members of the pea and bean family). These plants convert nitrogen from the air into a form that other plants can use to fuel their growth. In other cases, the companion plants are cover crops that are tilled into the soil to add organic matter and nutrients.

11. Cowpeas as a source of nitrogen

One of the more surprising plant partners on this list of companion plants for peppers is probably cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata). This warm-season companion plant is often used as a cover crop. But, it can also be used as a nitrogen provider to nearby plants. When grown in partnership with peppers, a California study showed that the cowpeas improved pepper production by both reducing weeds and providing nitrogen. Cowpeas are best planted in spring. Interplant them with transplants of peppers, tomatoes, or summer squash. Because they produce compounds that can inhibit the germination of seeds, don’t plant any of the partner crops from seed. Only use transplants.

Companion plants for peppers to improve pollination

Annual or perennial plants with big, wide blooms or hooded flowers are great companion plants for peppers. Though pepper flowers are self-fertile (meaning they can pollinate themselves), they need to be shaken or jostled. This releases the pollen from the anthers. The wind or even you bumping into the plant can be enough to cause pollen release. However, the presence of bumble bees further improves pollination rates. Bumble bees are especially valuable pollinators to peppers and other members of the nightshade family like tomatoes and eggplants. This is because they vibrate their flight muscles very fast in a process called buzz pollination. It’s the most effective tool for knocking that pollen loose and fertilizing pepper flowers.

12. Large or hooded flowers to bring in the bumble bees

To boost the number of bumble bees in your vegetable garden, plant flowers that support them. Bumble bees are big, and they need a secure landing pad. Plants with large, lobed lower petals are one good option. Hooded flowers like monkshood, lupines, snapdragons, and members of the pea and bean family, need bumble bees to pop open their flowers (most smaller bees aren’t heavy enough). Broad flowers with a heavy center, like zinnias, cone flowers, tithonia, and cosmos, are another great bet. Plant plenty of these blooms in and around your vegetable garden to enhance pepper pollination.

References:

Companion plants for peppers: 12 science-backed choices for healthy, high-yielding plants

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNIukDImA4M

12 Companion Plants For Tomatoes

1. Herbs

Growing herbs with your tomatoes is a smart choice. Many herbs not only require minimal space to grow (both in terms of height and root coverage) but they also are easy to care for. They won’t take a ton of nutrients from your soil and they won’t compete with your tomatoes for water, sunlight, or airflow, either.

Some of the best herbs to grow with your tomatoes include:

• Mint
• Parsley
• Sage
• Lemon balm
• Chives
• Basil
• Dill (harvest early so its tall, bushy growth doesn’t interfere with your tomatoes)

Many of these, like basil, can help to repel disease and insects, too. Some gardeners report that basil improves the growth and flavor of your tomatoes, too.

2. Groundcovers

Just about any groundcover plant can be grown with tomatoes. Many of these are also herbs, like marjoram and oregano, but you can grow any plant that grows low to the ground with tomatoes. They won’t take up much space or compete for nutrients.

3. Lettuce

Grow leaf lettuce and other leafy greens (with the exception of spinach, a heavy feeder) beneath your tomatoes. Not only will the lettuce act as a living mulch to keep the soil cooler, but it can reduce the spread of disease in the garden, too.

Plus, lettuce likes to be kept cool, so growing it in the shadow of your tomatoes is a good way to extend the amount of time before it goes to seed, too.

4. Beans

Many people don’t think of growing beans next to or underneath their tomato plants, but it’s actually a smart choice. Beans are not heavy nitrogen feeders, and instead, add nitrogen back to the soil. Tomatoes, on the other hand, consume heavy amounts of nitrogen. Growing these two plants together is a smart choice that will maximize the space you have a labile. Choose bush beans instead of pole beans for the best results.

5. Radishes

Radishes love the shade, so growing radishes under tomatoes is a smart choice. Your radishes will stay cool, which can prevent them from bolting.

6. Root Vegetables

Most root vegetables grow well in the shadow of tomatoes, too. Some good options include parsnips, carrots, beets, and rutabagas. All of these crops grow best when they are exposed to soil that is high in phosphorus but not quite as high in nitrogen. When these root vegetables are provided with too much nitrogen, they produce bushy tops at the expense of their roots.

As a result, you’ll be left with small, inedible tubers.

Growing these crops beneath your tomatoes is a great way to ensure that they don’t receive too much nitrogen – but your tomatoes will love the nitrogen instead!

7. Flowers

Flowers not only increase pollination from beneficial insects but also reduce the likelihood of pests being drawn to your tomatoes, too. Marigolds can reduce the likelihood of soil-based nematodes as well as pests that target tomatoes like hornworms and

The viola is another good choice. Violas don’t need a lot of sun and can be planted right inside the bed. Lavender, technically an herb, is a great choice, too. It forms a low-to-the-ground cover and doesn’t need a lot of nutrients or sunlight in order to be productive

One flower that many people don’t think of growing with tomatoes is the rose. Although roses can compete with tomatoes for space if both plants aren’t pruned properly, tomatoes can actually help roses in that they can protect them from a disease named black spot.

8. Onions

Onions are great to grow beneath tomatoes because they don’t take up a lot of space and produce minimal foliage. They won’t restrict airflow and they also don’t absorb too many of the nutrients in the soil that your tomatoes need.

9. Garlic

Like onions, garlic also takes up minimal space and won’t compete much for nutrients. It can control late blight and also helps to repel red spider mites. Another benefit of growing garlic near tomatoes? You’ll have everything you need growing together to make a homemade spaghetti sauce!

10. Amaranth

Amaranth is a grain crop that grows surprisingly well next to tomatoes. It can help repel insects and won’t compete for space or water.

11. Borage

Borage grows in a fashion similar to lettuce, so you can plant it beneath your tomato plants without having to worry about it competing for space or nutrients. It can supposedly protect your plants from tomato hornworms, too. You can harvest the leaves young and enjoy them in salads.

12. Asparagus

Asparagus is another crop you can grow under your tomatoes, but you’ll have to be a bit careful about how you do it. Asparagus is a perennial, which means it will come back year after year.

You will just need to be mindful of where your plants are growing when you plant your tomato seedlings in the spring – that way, you won’t disturb the developing shoots.

Harvest the asparagus shoots young so they don’t interfere with the foliage of your tomatoes. Then, you can reap the many benefits of both.

Asparagus helps clear the soil of nematodes, which tend to be drawn to tomatoes, while tomatoes will help asparagus in return by getting rid of asparagus beetles. It’s a win-win for everyone!

References:

https://plantcaretoday.com/12-companion-plants-to-grow-alongside-your-tomatoes.html

https://www.diyncrafts.com/102170/home/gardening/12-plants-to-intercrop-with-tomatoes-better-harvest-and-soil

12 Health Benefits of Thyme

Benefits

Thanks to its distinctive taste, thyme has remained a culinary staple to this day. But thyme also boasts a slew of helpful medicinal qualities.

Thyme’s benefits include:

• fighting acne
• lowering blood pressure
• helping to alleviate cough
• boosting immunity
• disinfecting
• repelling pests
• aromatherapy
• boosting mood
• culinary uses
• preventing bacterial infections
• helping to treat yeast infections
• possibly helping against certain types of cancer

Want to learn more about how this humble spice does so much? Dig into the research below.

Acne

If you’re tired of buying and trying over-the-counter acne medication with no good results, you may be in luck. Thyme is known for its antibacterial properties, and it might have a future as an acne-fighting ingredient.

When thyme is steeped in alcohol for days or weeks, it turns into a solution known as a tincture.

In an older 2010 study, thyme essential oil was found to have antibacterial activity against P. acnes, the bacteria thought to cause acne. However, we still don’t know if thyme oil actually reduces pimples.

Blood pressure

Thymus linearis Benth. is a species of thyme found in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

A 2014 study found that an extract was able to significantly lower heart rate in rats with high blood pressure. It was also able to lower their cholesterol.

Still, we need human studies to confirm these effects.

Coughing

Thyme essential oil, which is obtained from its leaves, is often used as a natural cough remedy.

In one older 2006 study, a combination of thyme and ivy leaves helped to alleviate coughing and other symptoms of acute bronchitis.

A 2018 study found a combination of thyme and primula extracts to reduce inflammation and mucous in an animal model.

Next time you’re faced with a cough or sore throat, try drinking some thyme tea.

Immunity

Getting all the vitamins your body needs every day can be challenging.

Luckily, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports that thyme is packed with helpful nutrients, including:

• vitamin A
• vitamin C
• copper
• fiber
• iron
• manganese

However, thyme isn’t a great source of these nutrients unless you consume it in excessive quantities. For example, 1 teaspoon of thyme has 1.28 milligrams of vitamin C — according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), that’s only 1 percent of your daily needs.

Disinfecting

Mold is a common yet potentially dangerous air pollutant that can lurk in your home. Once you identify it, you’ll want to take the necessary steps to get rid of it once and for all. In some cases, thyme oil may be the answer.

A 2017 study showed that thyme may be effective at controlling gray mold rot in guava fruit.

These effects may translate to mold in the home as well.

An older 2007 study suggests thyme can be used as a disinfectant in dwellings where there’s a low concentration of mold.

Still, if you find significant mold in your home, it’s best to hire a professional to remove it.

Pests

The Environmental Protection Agency says that thymol, a kind of thyme oil, is also an ingredient in many pesticides — both outdoor and indoor — and is commonly used to target:

• bacteria
• viruses
• rats
• mice
• other animal pests

A 2021 study showed thyme essential oil to be effective against adult mosquitoes and their larvae.

You can make a homemade repellant by mixing 4 drops of thyme oil for every teaspoon of olive oil, or mixing 5 drops for every 2 ounces of water.

Aroma

You can now find organic and natural skin care products at most retailers, and many contain thyme.

Thyme is also a popular ingredient in natural deodorants and is often included in potpourri.

You can use thyme essential oil in an aromatherapy diffuser to potentially reap the benefits of its mood-boosting properties, though more research is needed.

Mood

Thyme essential oil is often used for aromatic and therapeutic purposes because of its active substance, carvacrol.

In a 2013 animal study, carvacrol was shown to increase concentrations of serotonin and dopamine, two hormones that regulate mood.

If you use thyme or thyme oil regularly, it might have a positive effect on your feelings and mood. Still, more human studies are needed.

Cooking

Thyme is a wonderful ingredient that’s used in cuisines around the world, particularly in France, Italy, and across the Mediterranean.

Thyme is a main ingredient in this tasty take on pesto sauce, which you can use as a condiment or add to pasta or rice.

Fresh leaves or whole sprigs can be used while preparing meat or poultry. Thyme is also an excellent ingredient to use with fish, like in this heart-healthy white fish recipe.

This whole wheat macaroni and cheese with mushrooms and thyme is a grown-up spin on a childhood favorite, and it’s a great way to add some thyme to your diet.

Thyme may also have a positive effect on the safety and longevity of cooking oils. A 2012 study indicated that thyme extract might prolong the stability of sunflower oil at different temperatures as well as provide antioxidant effects.

You can make your own thyme-infused oil by following this recipe. Still, there’s no guarantee that this homemade version will affect your oil’s stability.

Bacterial infection

Ever had food poisoning? Thyme may be able to help prevent it.

A 2013 in vitro study found that thyme oil showed potential as a natural preservative of food products against several common foodborne bacteria that cause human illness, even at low concentrations.

In addition, a 2011 in vitro study found thyme oil effective against resistant strains of Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, Escherichia, and Pseudomonas bacteria.

It’s important to note that this doesn’t mean that ingesting thyme oil will prevent you from getting food poisoning. Plus, if you were to take thyme supplements on a regular basis, you’d also likely be killing a lot of the good bacteria in your gut.

Yeast infection

Thyme isn’t just potentially effective against bacteria. It may pack some punch when it comes to fungus too.

A 2021 in vitro study found very low doses of thyme essential oil to be fungicidal against Candida albicans, a common cause of yeast infections, even when the fungus was resistant to the prescription medication fluconazole.

Still, human research is needed to know whether ingesting thyme oil can treat Candida.

Cancer

A 2018 in vitro study found both thyme and clove essential oils to inhibit breast cancer cell lines. A 2021 study replicated these results.

These studies only provide very weak evidence of a potential benefit of thyme for cancer, and human studies are needed to confirm any potential benefits.

Outlook

Thyme is a versatile herb with a broad wheelhouse of beneficial uses. Still, most of the research has been in lab or animal studies, so the scientific evidence to support these beneficial uses is fairly weak. Using thyme shouldn’t replace medical care and treatment.

If you’re interested in diving into the benefits of thyme, you may want to explore complementary and alternative medicine by finding a qualified professional, like a naturopath or osteopath, in conjunction with conventional treatment.

It can enhance your cooking, your health, your skin, and even the scent of your space. It might be about thyme to add this multipurpose plant to your toolkit.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/health-benefits-of-thyme

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhrbB2dVWdY

12 Rose Companion Plants

 

These 12 plants either look great with roses, thrive in the same conditions, or help your roses out somehow – perfect for your traditional or non-traditional rose garden.  

1. Lavender

Lavender and roses are a classic pair, often planted close together. The short purple spires of lavender offset the tall stems and cupped flowers of roses wonderfully.

Not only that, but they both thrive in the same conditions. Certain rose varieties, like shrub roses and floribunda roses, love soils that drain well, just like lavender. The full sun that gives lavender its fervor is also favored by some rose varieties.

Lavender has some other benefits too. It’s known to repel deer and rabbits and attracts the best pollinators around – bees. Some even suggest they make good host plants for aphids, protecting your roses from that pesky pest.

This addition is easy to care for, needing very little fuss and even less water to thrive. Lavender grows best in USDA Zones 5-9 and as long as they get full sun, they’ll flourish. 

2. Alyssum

Alyssum’s low-growing nature creates a beautiful carpet of soft-colored flowers. When paired with roses, it only looks better.

Like lavender, alyssum grows best in Zones 5-9 and enjoys rich soil with good drainage. Alyssums aren’t huge fans of full sun though, especially in hotter climates. They make a wonderful choice for gardeners living in hot areas and looking to add something to their rose bushes in shadier spots in their garden.

They have a similar smell to honey and when paired with your roses, make the air in your garden irresistible.  

3. Foxgloves

Tall plants also look great with roses – especially foxgloves. When planted together they make a striking pair and create interesting borders along long walkways.

Foxgloves’ tubular flowers bloom in late summer and can be pink, purple, white, and even yellow, a variety of colors that’ll complement any rose.

Foxgloves enjoy a range of light conditions, thriving in some shade and even full sun. Your climate dictates the amount of sunlight foxgloves may need. They’ll enjoy more sun in cooler areas, whereas shade would be ideal in hotter ones.

Foxgloves thrive in USDA Zones 5-9 but can be sensitive to prolonged high temperatures. Soil that drains well will keep foxgloves tall and vibrant alongside your roses.

4. Lady’s Mantle

For traditional cottage gardens covered with roses, lady’s mantle is the perfect perennial pairing. It’s relatively short, forming a ground cover with its small yellow flowers. Even better, it makes for an interesting border plant and is an option if you’re wanting an easy plant to cover the stems of your tall roses.

Lady’s mantle enjoys various light conditions, thriving best in partial shade. It can do well in full sun, but be on the lookout for sunscald. It isn’t too picky about soil, but lady’s mantle is not a fan of waterlogged soil. Well-draining soil of any kind is necessary.

Lady’s mantel adapts to temperature changes well, but will need more shade in hotter climates. It grows best in USDA Zones 3-7.

5. Baby’s Breath

A common sight in many bouquets and floral arrangements is baby’s breath. Its soft white and pink clouds of flowers never grow old in gardens, especially when paired with darker orange and red roses.

Baby’s breath is a good choice for gardeners wanting to create a floral feature in their garden with as little effort as possible. Good drainage (a theme throughout these companion plants) is a must for this hardy perennial.

Baby’s breath requires full sun and doesn’t need a lot of water. It is drought tolerant and handles dry climates better than humid ones (USDA Zones 3-9).

Roses and baby’s breath make a great pair, complimenting each other gracefully in your garden and in cut flower bouquets.

6. Shasta Daisy

Shasta daisies, like roses, are a garden classic, featuring the well-known white flowers with yellow centers. The simplicity of this flower pairs well with the intricacy of roses of any color.

Shasta daisies are hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 9, enjoying full sun and soil that drains well. Long periods of extreme temperatures, hot or cold, stress this somewhat drought tolerant plant. As long as the temperatures remain stable, Shasta daisies are easy plants to care for, needing very little water once they’re established.   

7. Marigolds

Marigolds are the ultimate companion plant. And not just because they look good with roses and share similar needs. They also attract some of the most beneficial insects to your garden.

If you’ve got a vegetable patch nearby, you also won’t regret planting marigolds in your garden. They deter hornworms and prevent root-knot nematodes from taking hold. For roses, marigolds strengthen growth while attracting bees and other pollinators.

The yellow, orange and golden hues add life to rose beds and brighten up any area in your garden. If its charming colors, flowers, and benefits haven’t won you over yet, then one simple fact might – marigolds can grow in almost any climate, from USDA Zones 2 to 11. They are easy to care for, loving full sun and needing water once a week once established.

8. Parsley

A pair that may not be the first to pop into your head are parsley and roses. Not only do they look surprisingly great together, but parsley also has many benefits for roses. Parsley deters many unwanted insects from your roses, including aphids and rose beetles. Even better, this herb may actually enhance the fragrance of your roses.

Parsley grows in a wide variety of climates (USDA Zones 2-11) and isn’t affected by humidity. Parsley enjoys consistently moist soil, well-draining soil. Other than more frequent watering, parsley is easy to care for and will do wonders if added to your garden.

9. Sage

Sage is another herb to opt for if you’re wanting to prevent aphids and beetles from attacking your roses. Much like lavender, sage’s purple blooms create an interesting image when paired with rose bushes.

They too will fill up the gaps created by the long stems of roses, while ensuring your roses remain… well… rosy. Sage thrives in full sun and needs dry, well-drained soil. It is also drought tolerant and won’t grow if overwatered.

Along with deterring a few pests, sage attracts a handful of beneficial insects too. Butterflies, bees, and even hummingbirds are sure to make an appearance in your garden.

If you’re unsure of where to place your sage, it does best as a border plant. In amongst your rose bushes, your path will transform with a touch of sage.

10. Pincushions

A shift back to handsome pairings now. Pincushion flowers are small but interesting, adding some life around the base of roses.

If you’re one for picking flowers and showing them off in your home, pincushions are an excellent choice for your rose bed. Its many colors will pop along the lower half of your rose bushes.

Pincushions are very easy to care for, thriving in temperate climates. Extreme heat, cold, and high humidity are unwelcome though (USDA Zones 3-7). They’re sun lovers, needing plenty of light to give you the show-stopping blooms these plants are known for.

In warmer climates, some afternoon shade may be needed. Once established, pincushions can go without water for some time (depending on the weather), making this flowering plant another easy yet stunning companion for your roses.

11. Snapdragons

Snapdragons are a spring favorite, for gardens and bumblebees alike. Its long, snout-shaped blooms contrast well with the shapes of roses. Snapdragons fill in the gaps, creating an irresistible flower display. Coming in almost every hue, your garden will be filled with colorful floral magic.

To ensure the magical sight, give snapdragons plenty of sun and partial shade in warmer areas. They do best in cooler climates but are hardy in USDA Zones 7-11.

Due to their differing flowering times, you may miss out on seeing the two together, but you will have a touch of summer with you in winter when roses are dormant. They are slightly thirstier than other perennials – but a welcome price to pay for its warm blooms.

12. Alliums

Another interesting companion for your roses are members of the onion family – alliums.

Seasoned rose growers will tell you that pairing members of this family with your roses do wonders. Their strong scent wards off aphids and other pests and many suggest that they prevent black spots on roses.

Garlic and chives are often recommended. Chives’ flowers are a soft white, complementing any rose beautifully. They’re relatively easy to care for, needing full sun and well-draining soil.

For those who would like to continue to showcase the roses, then ornamental onions are the choice for you. You will gain all the benefits of planting a member of the onion family while keeping your rose bush or beds looking marvelous.

Alliums thrive in USDA Zones 4-10 and are native to the middle east. They’re not at all fussy about their soil type, so long as it doesn’t hang on to water. Watering doesn’t need to be frequent, and they’ll appreciate full sun.

What Not To Plant With Roses

Roses thrive in almost any USDA hardiness zone, depending on the variety. They love the sun and need soil that drains well. Roses are also classified heavy feeders, needing nutritious soil lower in nitrogen. Constantly wet roots and soil will lead to a plethora of problems, especially root rot.

With these conditions in mind, there are a few plants not suited to roses:

Bunchberry – needs shade and lots of water to thrive.

Toad lilies – need well-draining soil but do best in full shade.

Leopard plants – have a love for shade and need slightly alkaline soil that is moist.

Fuchsia – shade is a requirement for this plant to thrive, along with rich moist soil.

References:

12 Rose Companion Plants (& What Not To Grow Near Roses)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-siKEX_wok

12 Lavender Companion Plants

 

The Best Companion Plants for Lavender

1. Echinacea

Echinacea and lavender make a great pairing, and not just because they look stunning next to each other.

They both thrive in very similar conditions, growing best between USDA Zones 3 and 9. Echinaceas, also known as Cone Flowers, need just as much sun and even less water than lavender. They’re considered to be more drought tolerant than their potential partner, so your watering patterns won’t need to change too much.

Just like lavender, echinacea requires soil that drains well to produce its purple blooms. In summer, if you decide to pair these together, you’ll have a stunning purple and lilac display in your garden.

2. Roses

Lavender and roses are a classic, pretty pairing. Shrub roses and floribunda rose varieties are prime choices as companion plants for lavender.

Roses do well in most conditions (USDA Zone 2 – 11), depending on the variety you choose. Rose bushes thrive in loamy, well-draining soil. Leave a good amount of space between the two plants though, as roses are a bit thirstier than lavender, needing water at least twice a week.

3. Yarrow

Yarrow is a perennial that makes a great partner for lavender. Interestingly, it falls under a group of hardy plants that thrive in poor soil.

This pretty plant is often considered a weed because it overgrows and spreads almost uncontrollably when planted in nutrient-rich soils. Soil on the sandier side that drains well aids in controlling this growth.

Full sun is necessary for a healthy yarrow plant, so planting it alongside your lavender won’t be an issue. Further, the pairing will do wonders for the colors in your garden. Yarrow’s small yellow flowers will complement the soft purple of lavender when they bloom in late summer.

4. Sedum

For a companion plant that’ll look great with your lavenders, consider upright sedum (Stone Crop). You can’t go wrong pairing its various colors – including red, white, and pink – with your lavender.

This border plant thrives in full sun and requires sandy, rocky soil that drains exceptionally well. Sedum can grow in USDA Zones 3 through to 10 and is just as low maintenance as lavender. It requires water at least once a week to keep the soil slightly moist.

Full sun is a must, but it will tolerate some shade. If there is a shady spot close to your lavender that needs filling, sedum is the perfect option. Sedum flowers bloom in summer and fall, continuing the spectacle in your garden when the lavender season ends.

5. Alliums

If landscaping is a passion, then pairing alliums with lavender is ideal. Allium’s tall bulbs complement the short lavender blooms beautifully. This is another drought-tolerant plant that does well in Zones 4-8.

Alliums and lavender can be paired together along borders or in pots, creating interesting height variations. Both need full sun, little water, and sandy soil – you won’t have to worry about planting them in the same beds or pots.  

6. African Daisy

African Daisies have the same basic attributes as the common daisies we all know and love. However, they are more unique, with vibrant coloring (some varieties are even bi-colored) that looks almost hand-dyed.

They make great companion plants for lavenders as they thrive in similar conditions (USDA 9-11) and require very little care. They need full sun, well-draining soil, and some water once a week.

This pretty flower blooms throughout spring, summer, and fall, keeping your garden bright, even during lavender’s off-season. You can’t go wrong with this simple, yet stunning companion plant for your lavender.

7. Zinnia

A truly hardy annual to consider are zinnias. Zinnias have a full spectrum of flower colors to choose from. Whether you opt for pink, white, red, or lavender purple, you can be sure that they’ll look great alongside your lavenders.

Not only that, but they’ll thrive alongside lavender too. Not fearing humidity or heat and loving full sun and soil on the dry side, you can be sure that zinnias will make a great companion for your lavender.

8. Gaillardia

Gaillardia, also known as the Blanket Flower, is another daisy-like flower sure to look great in your garden with lavender. The burnt reds, oranges, and yellows of these blooms bring life to subdued hues of lavender, creating an interesting color spectrum in your garden.

They love full sun and aren’t too fussed about soil, as long as it drains well. Blooming annually throughout summer and fall, you won’t be disappointed adding gaillardias to your lavender beds.

9. Rosemary

Rosemary and lavender are another classic pair. Both have roots in the rocky hillsides of the Mediterranean and enjoy climates on the warm side. If you’re looking to expand your herb garden that already has well-established lavender, Rosemary is one of your best options.

This herb grows best in Zones 9 to 11 and needs just as much sun and water as lavender. Both can be planted together as a pair of companion plants to benefit the rest of your garden. Rosemary and lavender attract a variety of pollinators and deter rabbits and deer.

Note that rosemary is not as cold tolerant as lavender, so if you live in a cooler climate, another companion may be necessary.

10. Thyme

For a cold-hardy option, thyme is your go-to. Originating in the Mediterranean, it thrives in sandy, dry soil, and hot climates, just like lavender and rosemary. Its hardiness zones are 5 through 9, so it’s not as temperature-sensitive as rosemary.

The herb becomes dormant when the first frost hits, but if you manage to protect it, thyme can survive the winter. If colder weather is not a concern, thyme does extremely well when planted near lavender, enjoying the full sun and the occasional watering.

The pair complement each other in looks too. Thyme makes a cute ground covering plant with its paler purple flowers that will look great alongside your lavender patch.

11. Sage

Sage is another herb that thrives in conditions that lavender favors. No matter the variety, sage will thrive in hot climates, sandy, well-draining soil with little water or fuss.

Sage grows best in Zones 5-11. Thyme, sage, and lavender make a great group for planting together, especially in pots or containers. This herb has several purposes, from culinary to medicinal. Even better, it looks fantastic as a decorative border plant.

12. Oregano

Increasing the spice in your life is important. So is adding multipurpose plants and herbs to your garden. By planting oregano, you get two benefits in one.

While it has fantastic uses in the kitchen, this delicious herb can be used as a companion plant, not just for lavender, but for a variety of other plants. Oregano is easy to care for, ideal as a ground cover or an edging plant. It does well in some shade, but largely loves the sun and thrives in dry soil.

If lavender isn’t drawing as many bees as you’d like, oregano is your answer. No matter your need or purpose, lavender and oregano make a great pairing for your garden.

What Not to Plant With Lavender

1. Mint

While we’re on the topic of herbs, let’s chat about one that just won’t do near your lavender – mint.

Mint is unsurprisingly a popular herb to grow. It grows easily, has many benefits and uses, and it smells great. Further, it’s quite a hardy little herb, with various varieties enjoying cold and hot climates. Mint generally does best in USDA zones 3-11.

Unfortunately, though, mint’s needs are incompatible with those of lavender. Mint needs rich, moist soil, completely opposed to that of lavender. While it can’t stand soggy soil, mint is extremely thirsty and requires plenty of water to flourish – much more than your lavender will stand.

2. Camellias

There are many flowers that may have the potential to look fantastic with lavender. Camellias are one of them. These peony-like flowers can bloom in so many beautiful colors – red, white, pink, and yellow to name but a few.

In an arrangement, they complement lavender stunningly. Unfortunately, like mint, their needs are far too incompatible.

Camellias grow best in Zones 7 to 9, matching that of lavender. However, the main issues are the camellia’s light and water needs. This flowering shrub won’t enjoy the six hours of direct sunlight lavender needs, and it needs plenty of water to keep the soil constantly moist.

3. Hostas

A favorite easy-going perennial with stunning foliage is the hosta. Hostas can grow across many climates and aren’t too particular about temperature or humidity. They can thrive in USDA Zones 3 all the way through to 11.

Hosta’s foliage is sought after – one of the main reasons they’re added to gardens. This shrub-like perennial is easy to care for, needing very little water and rich but well-draining soil. Its flowers and foliage may look great with your lavender too.

However, the pair sadly can’t grow together, even though it seems like they should. Hosta’s survive best in shade or dappled light – full sun is a definite no-go.

4. Impatiens

Impatiens are beautiful flowering perennials guaranteed to spruce up your garden. The brightly colored flowers and easy-to-care-for nature make this a highly sought-after plant across the world.

You may be hoping to surround your lavender with impatiens’ stunning pinks, whites, deep purples, and reds, yellow, and coral. And it’s sure to make a statement in your garden. But, while both need well-draining soil, that’s where their similarities end.

Impatiens need shade – light to full shade – to thrive. They are also quite sensitive to higher temperatures, needing plenty of water in warmer months and areas.

References:

12 Lavender Companion Plants (& 4 Plants To Grow Nowhere Near)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1tXOJfG7kw

12 Best Ginger Companion Plants

 

Here are some of the best companion plants to grow with ginger:

1. Chili Peppers

Chili pepper is relatively easy to grow. Its leaves thrive in the sun, while its roots prefer moist soil.

The two plants are mutually beneficial since chili peppers shade ginger, while ginger repels pests and also shades pepper roots.

Benefits provided: Offers shade

Mature size: 5 to 12 feet

Popular varieties: Chinese chili, Capsicum annum, C. baccatum, and C. pubescens

2. Turmeric

Like ginger, turmeric is a spicy root. Both plants have the same growth requirements. Turmeric and ginger greatly complement each other and amplify each other’s benefits.

Benefits provided: Strengthens ginger’s benefits, great for planting in limited areas, needs the same soil type as ginger

Mature size: Up to 3 to 4 feet

Popular varieties: White turmeric and yellow turmeric

3. Peas

Peas are annual legumes. They’re delicious and healthy vegetables that you’ll definitely benefit from growing. Plus, they make a great companion plant for ginger.

They’re climbing plants, which means they’ll grow to whatever size you desire. All you need is to provide adequate support.

Benefits provided: Enrich the soil with nutrients, provide shade

Mature size: Bush peas can grow to 30 inches, while pole peas can grow as tall as 6 feet

Popular varieties: Snap peas, snow peas, and pigeon peas

4. Beans

Like peas, beans are great legumes to grow. They’re known to fix nitrogen levels in the soil, making for awesome companion plants.

Beans have big leaves that will shade ginger against any harsh sun. You can also “customize” their size as they’re climbing plants.

Benefits provided: Provide shade, regulate nitrogen levels in the soil

Mature size: Anywhere from 2 to 13 feet

Popular varieties: Lima, navy, pinto, and kidney

5. Cilantro

Cilantro, along with ginger, is a popular ingredient in many dishes.

Better yet, it doesn’t require a lot of special care. It has different varieties, each with its distinct taste. In addition, its white flowers can brighten up any garden.

Benefits provided: Provides shade, easy to grow

Mature size: Up to 2 feet

Popular varieties: Culantro, leaf cilantro, and Mexican coriander

6. Garlic

Garlic doesn’t take up much space in your garden. It’s also highly compatible with ginger.

Plus, they both work well together in countless recipes, so it makes sense to grow them next to each other!

Benefits provided: Repels many pests and fungal diseases, enhances ginger’s aroma

Mature size: 1 to 3 feet

Popular varieties: Soft neck garlic and hard neck garlic

7. Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are garden essentials. Plus, planting them next to ginger is a fool-proof way to ensure both plants flourish.

They’re highly similar to chili peppers. So, if you want a tasty but less spicy vegetable, bell peppers are the way to go.

Benefits provided: Provide shade, compliment the taste of ginger

Mature size: 3 to 6 feet in height

Popular varieties: California Wonder, Baron, and Candy apple

8. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a great herb to use in soups and all seafood dishes. So, it’s no wonder how complementary and useful it is to grow next to ginger.

Benefits provided: Provides shade, has the same growing requirements as ginger

Mature size: Up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide

Popular varieties: Ornamental lemongrass and Indian lemongrass

9. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums make excellent companion plants. They look great in your garden while aiding the growth of plants next to them.

Nasturtiums are ground cover plants that can trap any insects that might be harmful to your garden.

Benefits provided: Provide shade, protect companion plants from insects

Mature size: Up to 1 to 3 feet tall, almost 18 inches wide

Popular varieties: Whirlybird and Monk’s Cress

10. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are essential in every garden, not to mention that they’re a breeze to grow. 

In addition, pests love to feed on leafy greens. So, planting them next to ginger offers a good level of protection.  Not only that, but leafy greens also take little space in your garden.

Benefits provided: Provide shade, enrich the soil with nutrients, protect nearby plants from pests

Mature size: No more than 12 inches tall

Popular varieties: Kale, spinach, and lettuce

11. Hibiscus

Not only is hibiscus a vibrant addition to your garden, but the plant is also an excellent medicinal supplement. It can grow as a companion to many other plants, including ginger.

You can’t go wrong with a hibiscus shrub. It attracts a lot of beautiful butterflies to your garden, making it a sight to behold.

Benefits provided: Provides shade, brings color to your yard

Mature size: From 3 to 7 feet tall

Popular varieties: Tropical hibiscus, Rose Mallow, and hardy hibiscus

12. Fruit Trees

Who doesn’t want to have fruit growing in their garden? Not only will fruit trees give you that, but they can also be great companion plants for ginger.

These shady canopies can take up a lot of space, so you’ll definitely benefit by planting ginger next to them to utilize the free root space. 

Benefits provided: Provide partial shade

Mature size: Up to 25 feet tall

Popular varieties: Apple, lemon, cherry, and fig trees

References:

12 Best Ginger Companion Plants + Easy Planting Guide

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BcsrCWIDTRA

12 Sweet Potato Companion Plants

1. Spinach: Spinach acts as an effective cover plant, making for one of the best companion plants.

2. Garlic: Garlic wards off pests with its potent aroma.

3. Root vegetables: Horseradish is a root vegetable with pest-resistant qualities. Radishes boost pest resistance and repel flea beetles. Turnips, parsnips, and beets also operate similarly.

4. Bush beans: Bush beans are legumes that may increase your sweet potato yield.

5. Pole beans: Pole beans can help boost nitrogen absorption.

6. Peas: Peas may help sweet potatoes absorb nitrogen.

7. Basil: Basil repels damaging hornworms and flies.

8. Herbs: Thyme is an herb that attracts hoverflies, which eat destructive aphids. Dill, chives, borage, summer savory, and oregano also make good companion plants for sweet potato vines. Plant these aromatic herbs nearby to ward off the destructive sweet potato weevil.

9. Alyssum: Sweet alyssum flowers serve as a ground cover plant while also attracting beneficial insects like wasps.

10. Yarrow: Yarrow attracts pollinators to your garden.

11. Nasturtium: These bright orange flowers are excellent at repelling the Colorado potato beetle.

12. Marigold: Marigolds are effective at repelling many sweet potato pests that can destroy the plant’s root system.

References:

https://www.masterclass.com/articles/sweet-potato-companion-plants

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwapTgW8Inw

12 Plants That Can Repel Mosquitoes

 

Source: 15 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Mosquitoes in Your Yard

1. Basil
2. Catnip
3. Citronella
4. Eucalyptus
5. Garlic
6. Lavender
7. Lemongrass
8. Marigolds
9. Mint
10. Peppermint
11. Rosemary
12. Sage

And many more!

References:

https://www.countryliving.com/gardening/garden-ideas/g2479/plants-that-repel-mosquitoes/?slide=12

https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/mosquito-repellent.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--TxuKZOsNQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftdqeS4XSFU

12 Clever Plant Hacks and many more hacks!

 

Put a stem of rose in a pot by dipping or putting a small amount of honey on it and sticking it in a potato. Honey stimulates roots and potato fertilizes.

Use an empty bottle, cut holes or punch holes on it. Put leaves of succulents on the holes. Refill with 2 inches of water. New succulents sprout in 4 weeks.

Use a rope and a bottle by placing the bottle on a table and the plant on the floor. Insert one end of the rope in the bottle and the other end placed at the soil of thet plant. The plants will self water for 2 weeks. This is good if you will be going on vacation.

Falling hair or hair from your brush or combs can be used in plants. Just mixed it with the soil. Nitrogen in hair promotes nutrients.

Avoid bugs by placing the sharpened pencil excesses around the plant. Cedar wood repels pests.

Use coffee filter and water bottle and then tying the cutout water bottles by layers. Put some soil in each and hang them. It recycles water, you only need to water the topmost bottle.

Alternative for plant food, mixed lemon, sugar, and bleach in a bottle. Use this as an easy plant food replacement.

Mix hydrogen peroxide with water and used it to avoid rotting roots.

Rice water washings can be used and placed on ice trays to form ice cubes. Starches in rice nourishes soil.

Do not throw the water after boiling eggs. Cool it down and use it to water your plants. Calcium keeps soil healthy.

Pebbles and soil on your old hanging organizer. Then places some seeds on an orange peeling and placed it on the mixture. The seeds will grow.

Mix water and soap in a bottle. Use this to water your plants especially if there are many flies around them. Soap repels flies.

Use an ice cream and put some flower seeds on it. Plant them when you see some growth already. Cone acts as a biodegradable seed starter.

References:

https://www.facebook.com/watch/112284674585/2623122114638189/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgbbSl24r10