Companion planting is the practice of planting two or more different types of plants close to each other in order to benefit from each other. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as maximizing space, deterring pests, or increasing yield.
In the case of marigolds and nasturtiums, these plants are both edible and have different benefits that can help boost the growth and health of the other. Planting them together is a great way to get the most out of your garden!
What Is Companion Planting?
The concept of companion planting is based on the idea that certain plants can positively affect the growth and health of other nearby plants. This is usually accomplished by attracting beneficial insects, repelling pests, or providing nitrogen fixation.
Marigolds, for example, are known to repel nematodes and other garden pests, while nasturtiums attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. So when these plants are grown together, they can help each other out!
What Are Marigolds and Nasturtiums?
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are annual flowering plants that come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, and red. They are native to the Americas and have been used for centuries in folk medicine.
Marigolds are known for their ability to repel pests like nematodes, as well as rabbits and deer. They also produce a chemical that can inhibit the growth of some weeds. In addition, marigolds are easy to grow and make great companion plants!
Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are another type of edible flower that is often used in companion planting. Nasturtiums come in a range of colors, including yellow, orange, and red. They are native to South America but have been naturalized to many other parts of the world.
Nasturtiums are known for their ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. They also produce a chemical that can deter some pests, making them ideal companion plants!
The Benefits of Companion Planting Marigolds and Nasturtiums
Marigolds and nasturtiums are both easy to grow and make great companion plants! Here are some of the benefits of growing these plants together:
- Marigolds repel pests like nematodes, rabbits, and deer.
- Nasturtiums attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Marigolds produce a chemical that can inhibit the growth of some weeds.
- Nasturtiums produce a chemical that can deter some pests.
- Both plants are easy to grow and make great companion plants!
How to Grow Marigolds and Nasturtiums Together
If you’re interested in growing these plants together, here are a few tips to get you started:
Start with healthy plants. Marigolds and nasturtiums are both easy to grow from seed, but you can also purchase plants from a nursery.
Choose a sunny spot. Both of these plants prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade.
Prepare the soil. Marigolds and nasturtiums prefer well-drained soil with a neutral pH. Amend the soil with compost or manure before planting.
Plant marigolds and nasturtiums at the same time. These plants have similar growing requirements, so they can be planted at the same time. Just make sure to give them enough space to grow!
Water regularly. Marigolds and nasturtiums both prefer consistently moist soil. Water them deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather.
Fertilize monthly. Use a balanced fertilizer or compost tea every month to keep your plants healthy.
Enjoy the flowers! Marigolds and nasturtiums are both beautiful flowering plants. Enjoy their colorful blooms all season long!
Harvesting Tips for Both Marigolds and Nasturtiums
Both of these plants are edible, so you can enjoy their flowers and leaves in the kitchen!
Marigolds
The petals of marigolds are edible and can be used to add color to salads or as a garnish.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums have a peppery flavor and can be used in place of radishes or other spicy greens. The flowers are also edible and make a beautiful addition to salads.
If you’re interested in growing marigolds and nasturtiums together, start with healthy plants and choose a sunny spot in your garden. These plants are easy to grow and will provide you with colorful blooms all season long!
Tips for Success on How to Care for Marigolds and Nasturtiums
Companion planting is a great way to get the most out of your garden! Marigolds and nasturtiums are both easy to grow and make great companion plants. Here are a few tips for success:
- Plant marigolds and nasturtiums in full sun. They will do best in well-drained soil.
- Marigolds and nasturtiums are both annual plants, so you will need to replant them each year.
- To get the most benefit from companion planting, plant marigolds and nasturtiums close together. This will help them to better support each other.
- Be sure to water your plants regularly. Marigolds and nasturtiums are drought-tolerant, but they will perform better if given enough water.
- Deadhead your marigolds and nasturtiums to encourage more blooms
- Harvest your nasturtiums regularly to keep them from getting too leggy. You can use the leaves in salads or as a garnish. The flowers are also edible and make a beautiful addition to any dish.
By following these simple tips, you will be well on your way to success with growing marigolds and nasturtiums together!