Companion planting is a gardening technique that has been used for a long time. In fact, Native Americans historically planted corn, squash and beans together. This combination of vegetables thrived so well that they became known as the "Three Sisters." Unlike the more organized, monoculture gardens that most people are familiar with, companion planting utilizes the benefits of biodiversity to cultivate a healthier and more bountiful garden.
More Effective Use of Space
Companion planting can make even the smallest gardens more bountiful by utilizing the space more effectively. By stacking vegetables so that tall, sun-loving plants, like corn or sunflowers, share space with lower, shade tolerant species, like lettuce or cucumber, you are doubling the garden's total yield. In addition, there is the benefit of climbing plants, such as peas or cucumber using taller stalks as trellises without harming either plant.
Success Through Biodiversity
Biodiversity is the key to companion planting. By creating an interrelated garden system you can "produce insect- and disease-resistant fruits, grains, and vegetables" that are not dependent on pesticides or herbicides, says Mother Earth News, And in the future, experiments with companion planting may lead to weed resistant gardens. Mixing crops also decreases the likelihood that pests or adverse conditions will destroy an entire crop, giving the gardener more crop security.
Creating a Natural Pest Repellent
Certain plants have qualities that repel, confuse and suppress pests by releasing biochemicals or aromas through their leaves and/or root systems. As natural insect repellents, when planted in companion pairs these plants will extend this protection to their neighbors. Stacking also plays a role in pest management. For example, when corn and squash are planted together, the corn protects the squash from the vine borer and the squash vines discourages raccoons.
Creates a Refuge for Wildlife
It may seem contradictory to encourage wildlife to make a home in a garden, but by doing so a garden becomes a more independent biosphere. Beneficial critters such as toads, lizards, snakes, birds, spiders and various predatory and pollinating insects can help a garden thrive. Not only do they pollinate plants but they also prey upon the pests that damage the garden. Through companion planting, a garden can become a more desirable habitat for these creatures.
Some Ideal Planting Companions
Which vegetables grow well together and which don't is an important factor to consider when starting a vegetable garden. Because of this, companion planting is an ever-expanding art which will require a good deal of experimentation. However, some popular companion vegetable combinations include squash and corn, tomatoes with plants from the onion family, asparagus, carrots, parsley, basil and cucumber. Finally, beans "thrive well with almost any combination of vegetable or herb," says the National Center for Appropriate Technology.
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