Hey there, fellow garden enthusiasts! Today, let’s talk about what not to plant with those lovely nasturtiums. Now, I know these vibrant flowers are a popular choice for many gardeners due to their stunning colors and edible leaves, but believe it or not, not every plant out there plays well with nasturtiums. So, before you start planning your dream garden, let’s explore some of the plants you should steer clear of when planting alongside these beauties.
First on our list is mint. Now, I know what you’re thinking – mint is a great addition to any herb garden, right? While that may be true, sadly, nasturtiums and mint simply don’t get along. Mint can be quite invasive and tends to spread rapidly, which can suffocate the delicate nasturtium plants. So, it’s best to keep these two apart to avoid any garden warfare.
Next up, we have cabbage family crops such as broccoli, kale, and cauliflower. Nasturtiums and these brassicas may seem like a perfect match, but alas, it’s not meant to be. You see, nasturtiums attract pests like aphids, which can wreak havoc on cabbage family plants. By planting them together, you’re just inviting trouble into your garden. It’s better to separate these two and let them thrive independently.
Now, let’s talk about tomatoes. While tomatoes and nasturtiums can both add a burst of color to your garden, it’s not advisable to plant them side by side. Nasturtiums are known for their ability to repel pests, like aphids and whiteflies, which can be beneficial for nearby plants. However, tomatoes are particularly susceptible to aphids, and having nasturtiums nearby may attract more of these unwanted visitors to your precious tomatoes. Keeping them apart will ensure your tomatoes stay healthy and pest-free.
Lastly, let’s discuss the herbaceous duo of dill and fennel. While these herbs may be a great choice for attracting beneficial insects, they can also hinder the growth of nasturtiums. Dill and fennel have strong taproots that compete for nutrients, water, and space with nasturtiums. So, if you want your nasturtiums to flourish, it’s best to avoid planting them alongside these tall and aromatic herbs.
Remember, folks, a successful garden is all about finding the right companions for your plants. By avoiding planting mint, cabbage family crops, tomatoes, dill, and fennel with nasturtiums, you’ll be ensuring a harmonious and thriving garden. So, go forth and create a stunning garden that will leave your neighbors green with envy!
Companion Plants for Nasturtiums
In gardening, companion planting refers to the practice of growing certain plants together to enhance each other’s growth, health, and productivity. When it comes to nasturtiums, there are several companion plants that can benefit from their presence in the garden.
Tomatoes
Nasturtiums are known to repel aphids, which can be a common pest for tomatoes. By planting nasturtiums near your tomato plants, you can help protect them from these destructive insects. Additionally, nasturtiums attract predatory insects like ladybugs, which feed on aphids and other pests that may harm your tomatoes.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers and nasturtiums make great companions in the garden. Nasturtiums act as a natural ground cover, providing shade and moisture retention for cucumber plants. They also deter pests like cucumber beetles, which can damage cucumber foliage and fruits.
Radishes
Planting nasturtiums alongside radishes can help keep away flea beetles, a common pest that can damage radish leaves and stunt their growth. Nasturtiums also attract pollinators like bees, which are essential for the successful pollination of radish flowers.
Herbs
Nasturtiums can be beneficial when planted near herbs such as rosemary, sage, and thyme. These aromatic herbs can help repel pests like whiteflies and aphids, and the nasturtiums’ vibrant flowers can provide a beautiful contrast to the green foliage of the herbs.
Beans
Beans and nasturtiums complement each other well in the garden. Nasturtiums can attract pollinators that are essential for bean plants’ successful fruit set. Additionally, the dense foliage of nasturtiums can provide some shade for the beans, helping to keep the soil moist and cool.
Remember, companion planting is not an exact science, and results can vary depending on factors like soil conditions, climate, and pests in your area. However, incorporating nasturtiums as companion plants can potentially provide benefits such as natural pest control, improved pollination, and enhanced aesthetics in your garden.
What Not to Plant with Nasturtiums
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When gardening with nasturtiums, it’s important to be aware of what plants should not be planted alongside them. Nasturtiums have a unique growth habit and release certain chemicals that can affect the growth and development of neighboring plants. Here are a few plants to avoid planting with nasturtiums:
1. Brassicas (such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower): Nasturtiums produce mustard oils, which can inhibit the growth of brassicas. Planting these two together may result in stunted growth and reduced yields.
2. Tomatoes: Nasturtiums attract aphids, which can also infest tomato plants. Planting these two together may increase the chances of an aphid infestation.
3. Pole beans: Nasturtiums have a tendency to climb and spread, and they may outcompete pole beans for space and nutrients. It’s best to separate these two plants to ensure healthy growth.
Remember to consider these factors when planning your garden to ensure optimal growth and productivity for all your plants. Happy gardening!
Until next time!