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Home , Companion planting, Mulch, Tagetes patula

COMPAN I O N PLANTING MAD E EAS Y

Excerpted from , a book from Rodale’s Successful Organic series (copyright 1994). Reprinted with permission of Weldon Russell Pty. Ltd.

Copyright 1995 by Rodale Press, Inc., Emmaus, PA 18098. Fourth Printing 1999 Text: Susan McClure -by-Plant Guide: Sally Roth Gardening editor: Nancy Ondra Project editor: Linda Hager Copy editor: Susan Fox Cover and book designer: Judy Ross Interior illustrations: Frank Fretz Contents

Introduction ~4~ How Does Companion Planting Work? ~4~ Getting Started with Companions ~7~ Growing a Companion ~7~ Plant-by-Plant Guide ~8~ Introduction

ouldn’t it be great if you encourage your to work could just plant your gar- together, sharing water and nutri- Wden and forget it? Your ents and protecting each other from plants would grow lush and pesky . Companion Planting healthy—without you adding lots of Made Easy is your guide to using fertilizer or worrying about pest time-tested techniques for healthier problems. Well, any kind of garden plants, bigger harvests, and fewer will need some care, but you can pest problems. How Does Companion Planting Work?

In the simplest terms, companion ings of just a few different plant planting is the technique of combin- . These large groups of simi- ing two plants for a particular pur- lar plants, called , are pose. If your are regularly prime targets for and disease attacked by insects, you can use attack. Increasing the diversity of companions to hide, repel, or trap your garden plantings is a natural pests. Other companions provide and effective way to avoid a mono- food and shelter to attract and pro- culture and minimize pest and dis- tect beneficial insects. And some ease problems. plants grow well together just Technically, adding diversity could because they don’t compete for light be as simple as increasing the num- or rooting space. Expanding the ber of different plants in your gar- diversity of your garden plantings and den. Sounds simple—until you incorporating plants with particularly realize that you have a limited useful characteristics are both part of amount of room in your garden, successful companion planting. which is taken up by your favorite crops. But, if you create a planned Creating Diversity diversity, you can still have good (or In contrast to the wide diversity of even better) yields from the same natural systems—like forests and amount of space. prairies—our and farms For instance, instead of growing tend to contain neat, identical plant- the same vegetable cultivars in the

4 same beds every year, try changing the as the nodule-bearing roots their positions each year, or at least die off and decompose. This nitro- try different cultivars. To get even gen is available during the season to more diversity, try open-pollinated boost the growth of any companion seeds instead of hybrids. The plants plants growing nearby. The big from open-pollinated seed are all bonus comes when you turn the just a little different genetically, so foliage and roots of the even if pests or diseases attack into the soil. When they decay, they some of the plants, the rest of the can release enough nitrogen to feed may be spared. the next crop you grow. An easy and pleasant way to add diversity to the vegetable garden is Repelling Pest Insects to add flowering plants. Mix annual A key part of creating effective crop flowers and herbs in the beds or combinations is using the natural rows of vegetables, or create per- abilities of the plant to attract, con- manent beds nearby for perennials fuse, or deter insects. Some plants and bulbs. Besides looking good, produce repellent or toxic com- flowers provide a source of food pounds that chase pests away or and shelter for spiders and benefi- stop them from feeding. In other cial insects that eat or parasitize cases, the aromatic compounds plant pests. released by plants can mask the scent of companion crops. Summer Enriching the Soil savory, for example, may help hide All plants withdraw some nutrients your bush from pests, while from the soil as they grow, but some is said to repel Colorado pota- actually return more nutrients than to beetles from a planting. they consume. Legumes—plants like Garlic releases deterrent aromas peas, beans, and —have a into the air that may chase away mutually beneficial relationship with insects such as beetles and nitrogen-fixing Rh i z o b i u m ba c t e r i a . potato bugs. Mint may keep cab- These bacteria colonize bage loopers off cabbage plants, roots, absorbing up to 20 percent of while can discourage the sugars the plants produce. The hornworms on tomatoes. bacteria use this energy to capture Try pungent plants as an edging atmospheric nitrogen (nitrogen gas) around garden beds, or mix them in and convert it into nitrogen com- among your crops. Or, if you can’t pounds that plants can use. grow the repellents close enough to Some of this nitrogen goes direct- your crops, try spreading clippings ly back to the host plant. Another of the scented plants over garden part of the nitrogen trapped by the beds for the same effect. Rhizobium bacteria is released into

5 Luring Pests from Crops or apply some other type of control Some plants have an almost irre- measure to the infested plants. sistible appeal for certain pests. Nasturtiums, for instance, are an Sheltering Beneficial excellent attractant plant because Insects they’re a favorite of . Not all insects are garden enemies. Colorado potato beetles find black Many actually help your garden nightshade (Solanum nigrum) grow by eating or parasitizing plant more alluring than even your best pests. You can encourage these ben- potato plants. eficial creatures to make a home in Attractant plants can protect your your garden by planting their crops in two ways. First, they act as favorite flowering plants. Growing decoys to lure pests away from your dill, for example, can attract pest- desirable crops. Second, they make eating spiders, lacewings, and para- it easier to control the pests since sitic wasps, which will help control the insects are concentrated on a on cabbage, beetles on few plants. Once pests are cucumbers, and aphids on lettuce. “trapped,” you can pull out the Plants that produce large quantities attractant plants (cover them with of easily accessible and nec- or plastic bags first, if the tar—like yarrow, fennel, and gold- pests are small or fast-moving) and enrod—provide shelter and supple- destroy them along with the pests, mental food for hungry beneficials.

6 Getting Started with Companions

With so many possible plant combi- compatible companions, as well as nations, it can be hard to know helpful growing information. Use where to start. To increase your these suggestions as the basis for chances of success, try a compan- your trials. ion planting scheme that has been Also, keep your eyes open for found effective in scientific studies existing garden plants that you can or that has the confirmation of a use in your own companion plant- wide variety of from vary- ing experiments. Look closely at ing climates. As you gain confi- flowers around your yard to see dence, you can branch out to try which harbor a wealth of beneficial less-proven combinations. insects; you may want to plant more You may want to start by selecting of these attractant plants. If you find a companion for one of your a quick-growing or vegetable favorite crops—tomatoes, for that is crawling with a bumper crop example. If you look up the of pests, take note—it could make “Tomato” entry on page 38, you’ll a good trap crop to lure pests away find recommendations for allies and from your other plants. Growing a Companion Garden

Caring for companion plantings get the most out of companion isn’t very different from how you planting, it’s often wise to try a com- normally care for your garden. You bination at least twice; three times is still need to prepare the soil well, even better. Then you can look at plant at the proper time, and water the overall performance of the com- and fertilize as necessary. bination and make an informed Throughout the season, observe decision on whether it’s worth try- the performance of the companion ing again. You’ll soon build a list of plantings you’re testing. Keep a plants and techniques that will notebook where you can record the make your garden more productive setup and the results of the trials. To and even easier to maintain.

7 Plant-by-Plant Guide

grapes were sometimes trellised Asparagus between the asparagus rows. Asparagus officinalis ENEMIES: None known. LI L I A C E A E GROWING GUIDELINES: Asparagus grows well in most areas ALLIES: According to companion that have either winter ground gardening lore, planting pars- freezes or dry seasons. Choose a ley or tomatoes with aspara- well-drained spot in full sun, and gus will invigorate both dig in plenty of or aged crops. Interplantings of . It’s important to prepare parsley, tomatoes, and basil the soil well, since plants may stay may discourage asparagus in place for 20 years or more. beetles. Many companion Most gardeners start gardeners find that aspara- asparagus from 1-year-old gus grows well planted crowns. Buy all-male plants if near basil. available. Place purchased COMPANIONS: crowns 18 to 24 inches (45 to Interplant early 60 cm) apart in a trench that is crops, such as 12 inches (30 cm) wide and 8 lettuce, beets, or spinach, between the rows in spring. In summer, add a late planting of let- tuce and spinach where the ferny asparagus plants will pro- vide some need- ed shade. In Colonial times,

8 inches (20 cm) deep. Allow 4 to 5 make a neat edging along flower feet (1.2 to 1.5 m) between rows. borders. Purple-leaved cultivars like Cover with 2 inches (5 cm) of soil. ‘Purple Ruffles’ are great in flower Add another 2 inches (5 cm) of soil beds as well as in vegetable and every 2 weeks until the trench is herb gardens. filled. well and water regu- ENEMIES: Even in the 1600s, gar- larly during the first 2 years after deners observed that rue and basil planting, and side-dress with com- did not appear to be good neigh- post or aged manure. Remove and bors. “Something is the matter,” destroy old foliage each spring to noted Nicholas Culpeper, in his control pests and diseases. Wait to English Physitian and Complete harvest your asparagus until the Herball. “This herb and rue will third spring after planting. Break never grow together, no, nor near spears off at soil level. one another.” GROWING GUIDELINES: Basil is Basil very sensitive to cold; wait until the weather and soil are warm before Ocimum basilicum 1 planting outdoors. Sow seed ⁄8 inch LA B I ATA E (3 mm) deep in full sun, or set out transplants after all danger of frost ALLIES: Companion gardeners has passed. Space plants 6 to 12 believe that basil improves the fla- inches (15 to 30 cm) apart for vor and growth of tomatoes, per- small-leaved types such as haps because the plants are such ‘Minimum’ or ‘Spicy Globe’; allow 1 good companions on the table. up to 1 ⁄2 feet (45 cm) between Some are also convinced that basil plants for larger cultivars such as or basil sprays protect tomatoes ‘Genova’ or ‘Piccolo Verde Fino’. from insects and disease, although Water and mulch to keep the soil this remains unproven by scientific evenly moist. Pinch or cut back research. flowering stems to keep the plant COMPANIONS: Basil is available in producing more . a variety of shapes and sizes, from COMMENTS: Garden lore suggests neat, small mounds to large, that basil repels flies and mosqui- branching plants. Low-growing, toes: Try tucking a few stems into a compact cultivars like ‘Spicy Globe’ bouquet on the patio table.

9 and flavor of growing beans as well. Bean The beans provide food and shelter Phaseolus spp. for many predatory and parasitic and other genera insects. LE G U M I N O S A E CO M PA N I O N S : Climbing pole beans are good companions for AL L I E S : Companion gardeners corn; they help anchor the corn maintain that interplanting tomatoes against wind and add nitrogen to the or corn with beans improves the soil. Celery and cucumbers are a few growth and yields of both crops. good companions for interplanting. Some recommend marigolds with ENEMIES: While some companion beans to repel Mexican bean beetles. gardeners recommend interplanting Scientific studies with marigolds garlic with beans to repel insects, show reduced beetle populations, others say that any member of the but a border planting of French onion family, including garlic, shal- marigolds ( patula) nega- lots, and chives, will be detrimental tively affected the beans’ growth. to growth and yield. Companion gardeners also suggest planting aromatic herbs such as win- GROWING GUIDELINES: Sow ter or summer savory and rosemary seed in average to fertile, well- to deter bean beetles. drained soil in full sun. Start plant- To help repel black aphids from ing around 2 weeks after the last beans, try bush beans spring frost date, when the soil is with garlic, or grow nasturtiums as warm (seeds will rot in cold, wet a trap crop. Summer savory, which soil). Make successive plantings at goes well with cooked 2- to 3-week intervals until 2 months beans, is said to before the average date of your first 1 improve the growth fall frost. Plant bush beans 1 to 1 ⁄2 inches (2.5 to 3.75 cm) deep and 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 cm) apart.

10 Sow pole beans 2 inches (5 cm) when planted near pole beans or deep and 10 inches (25 cm) apart. field mustard. Pick green beans while young; pick GROWING GUIDELINES: For best fresh shell beans when plump but root development, beets need a te n d e r . Leave dry beans on the sunny site with loose, fertile, well- plants until they rattle in the pod. drained soil that is free of rocks and stones. Sow seed 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep and 2 inches apart about a Beet month before the last spring frost. Beta vulgaris Seedlings often come up in clumps; CH E N O P O D I A C E A E thin to stand 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Transplant the thinnings to fill bare ALLIES: Companion gardening lore spots, or enjoy them in salads. holds that beets thrive in the com- Harvest roots when small; pick ten- pany of cabbage and its relatives, as der leaves for cooked greens. Sow a well as with onions; alternate beets fall crop in late summer. in a row with onions or kohlrabi. COMMENTS: Leafminers and flea Try companion plantings of mints beetles are common pests, but usu- (Mentha spp.) or catnip (Nepeta ally cause only cosmetic damage cataria) to ward off flea beetles. and do not affect root yields. (If you are growing beets for their greens, COMPANIONS: Plant in alternate floating row covers can help keep rows with other crops, even those foliage pests away.) Larvae of beet that grow tall. (Although beets pre- moths have been controlled on fer full sun, they also tolerate partial sugar beets with a watered-down shade.) Beets have attractive red- extract of the leaves of veined leaves that also make a nice trees (Castanea sativa). Scientists addition to ornamental plantings. believe the extract masks the chemi- ENEMIES: Some companion gar- cal aura that attracts the moth to lay deners believe that beets do poorly her eggs on the beet plants.

11 decaying broccoli plants instead of Broccoli turning them under. Brassica oleracea, GROWING GUIDELINES: Sow 1 Botrytis group seed indoors, ⁄2 inch (12 mm) deep CR U C I F E R A E and 2 inches (5 cm) apart, about 2 months before the last spring frost ALLIES: Many companion garden- date. Set out seedlings or nursery- ers believe that beans, celery, pota- grown transplants about a month toes, and onions improve broccoli’s before the last frost date. Give them growth and flavor. Aromatic herbs, a site with fertile, well-drained soil including chamomile, dill, pepper- and full sun. Space the young plants mint, rosemary, and sage, are also 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) supposed to be beneficial to broc- apart. Sow a fall crop directly in the coli and its relatives by discouraging garden in July through August. pests. Harvest the terminal bud while the COMPANIONS: Broccoli needs a florets are tightly budded and green. lot of calcium, so plant it with low- If you leave the stem in the ground, calcium feeders like beets, nastur- you can harvest smaller side buds tiums, marigolds, or sage. In rich, as they develop. Broccoli and other fertile soil, interplant broccoli with cabbage-family plants are heavy other cabbage-family members such feeders, so top-dress with compost as cabbage, cauliflower, collards, or feed with every few and kohlrabi, which share its heavy weeks. feeding habits. Underplant late-sea- son broccoli with hairy vetch, a win- ter-hardy that will live Cabbage on to protect the soil after you har- Brassica oleracea, vest the broccoli. Capitata group ENEMIES: Many companion gar- CR U C I F E R A E deners believe that broccoli and other cabbage-family plants are ALLIES: Many companion garden- negatively affected by tomatoes. ers say cabbage grows better when Some would add pole beans to that planted with celery, onions, and list, and others disagree about potatoes, although no research has whether strawberries are good or yet been done to prove or disprove bad neighbors. In scientific studies, the idea. Aromatic plants, including decomposing residues of broccoli marigolds, nasturtiums, pennyroyal, were found to have a toxic effect on peppermint, sage, and thyme, are a lettuce seedlings. It’s probably a favorite in garden lore for their good idea to remove and compost reputed insect-repellent powers;

12 except for marigolds, however, they ENEMIES: Companion gardeners have shown no significant effects in disagree about strawberries and scientific trials with cabbage. In cabbage as companions; some say fact, nasturtiums have been shown the relationship is beneficial while to actually attract cabbage flea bee- others say it affects cabbage nega- tles. Studies have shown that while tively. marigolds do reduce flea beetles, GROWING GUIDELINES: Cabbage they also apparently cause an allelo- does best in cool weather. For the pathic reaction that inhibits the 1 spring crop, sow seed indoors, ⁄4 growth of the cabbage. inch (6 mm) deep, 8 to 10 weeks Interplanting tomato rows with before the last spring frost date, or cabbage rows provided some protec- buy nursery-grown seedlings. tion from and cabbage flea Transplant to fertile, well-drained beetles in one study; researchers soil in full sun as soon as the soil theorized that the smell of the toma- can be worked, spacing plants 12 to toes hid the smell of the cabbage. 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart. Clover, lettuce, and also help Side-dress monthly with compost or protect from infestations by making rotted manure. Water evenly to pre- the cabbage hard to find. vent splitting. Harvest the heads COMPANIONS: Try a border of when they are round and full. kale around your cabbage patch to decoy insects away from the cabbage heads.

13 heads stand for self-sown plants Calendula next spring. Calendula officinalis COMMENTS: In olden days, gold- CO M P O S I TA E orange calendula petals were popu- lar in cooking, and their inclusion ALLIES: Some companion garden- in certain concoctions supposedly ers believe a border or interplanting allowed the consumer to see fairies. of calendula protects plants against On a more practical note, you can asparagus beetles, tomato horn- use the crushed, dried petals as a worms, and other insects; this may substitute for the coloring effect of be due to a masking effect or a saffron. repellent created by the pungent scent of its foliage. The brightly col- ored flowers attract beneficial insects, but the plant itself is often beset by aphids, whiteflies, caterpillars, leafhoppers, and other pests; it may hold some value as a trap crop. It is reputed to repel dogs when planted around shrubs and trees. COMPANIONS: The cheerful flowers of calendula are a great accent for herb gardens and flower borders. This compact annual fits in easily with veg- etable garden plantings. ENEMIES: None known. GROWING GUIDELINES: Calendula is easy to grow. Scatter seed in early spring in average, well-drained soil in full sun. Cut plants back to 3 inches (7.5 cm) after the first flush of bloom for color until frost, or sow again for fall blooms. Calendulas thrive in cool weather and keep blooming through the first light frosts. Let a few seed

14 tiny seeds to each inch (2.5 cm), in rows 1 foot (30 cm) apart, and cover lightly with fine soil or a var. sativa sprinkling of sand. Water gently with a fine mist to avoid washing out UM B E L L I F E R A E seeds. germinate in about 2 AL L I E S : Companion gardeners say to 3 weeks. When tops reach 1 to 2 that interplanted , peas, or inches (2.5 to 5 cm), thin plants to sage can improve the flavor of car- stand 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart. Thin rots. Some believe that onions, leeks, again to 4 inches (10 cm) apart in and rosemary, perhaps because of another 2 weeks, so that roots have their strong scent, repel root maggot plenty of room to grow. Make suc- flies. Interplanting with onions may cessive sowings every 3 weeks also help repel carrot rust flies, a through the season until 3 months problem in Northwest gardens. before the first fall frost for a con- tinuous crop of young, tender car- COMPANIONS: These light feeders rots. Water before harvesting to grow well in company with most soften the soil, and pull by hand to other garden vegetables. avoid damaging the roots. ENEMIES: Folklore suggests that COMMENTS: If are a dill and anise cause poor growth in problem in your patch, causing little carrots. knots along roots and a stunted GROWING GUIDELINES: Plant in crop, plant the bed with French full sun in deep, loose soil free of marigolds (Tagetes patula) the rocks. Start sowing about 3 weeks year before sowing carrots. Till the before the average date of the last marigolds into the soil at the end of spring frost. Sow about six of the the growing season.

15 reach 6 inches (15 cm) tall. Pinch Chives off spent flowers to prevent plants Allium schoenoprasum from reseeding. AM A RY L L I D A C E A E COMMENTS: Some companion gardeners recommend a spray of ALLIES: Companion gardeners rec- chives processed with water in a ommend chives to improve growth blender to deter mildew on cucur- and flavor of carrots, grapes, roses, bits and gooseberries or black spot and tomatoes. Some suggest that a on roses. In the kitchen, snip fresh ring of chives around an apple tree leaves into pieces and freeze in zip- may inhibit the growth of apple scab pered plastic bags for a ready (possibly by affecting the spores source of seasoning in the winter. carried on dropped leaves); others say chives ward off Japanese beetles or black spot in roses. No scientific Corn studies have been conducted to Zea mays confirm these reports. GR A M I N E A E COMPANIONS: Chives are too pret- ty to keep in the vegetable garden ALLIES: The benefit of planting alone. Use them for a neat and corn with beans has been upheld by attractive border planting, punctu- scientific research, which showed ate the corners or centers of herb increased yields when corn was beds with their spiky form, or weave grown with a legume. Beans and a few clumps into the perennial corn are mutually beneficial: Beans border. help keep fall armyworms in check ENEMIES: Some companion gar- on corn, while corn minimizes deners believe that chives inhibit the leafhoppers on bean plants. growth of beans or peas. Alternate rows of corn and bush GROWING GUIDELINES: Seeds beans, two rows of corn to one of require darkness to germinate. Sow beans. Or plant pole beans to climb a generous amount of seeds in each corn stalks. pot indoors. Cover the tray of COMPANIONS: Sunflower borders pots with a piece of newspaper or were a tradition in American Indian , then be patient—they gardens. British research indicates are slow to sprout. Transplant the that strips of sunflowers alternated young clumps, pot and all, to a with corn will increase yields and sunny spot in average, well-drained decrease infestations of fall army- soil. Space clumps 18 inches (45 worms. Squash and pumpkins do cm) apart. Harvest leaves by cutting well in the shade of the corn rows. them off at ground level when they

16 ENEMIES: The weed quack grass Plant four seeds at a time: “One (Agropyron repens) appears to for the blackbird, one for the crow, make nitrogen and potassium and that leaves just two to grow,” in unavailable to corn, even when the the words of an old prairie homily. area is heavily fertilized. Leached Sow seed 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep, toxins from -straw mulch and space the groups 12 to 15 inch- reduced corn yields in farm es (30 to 37.5 cm) apart, in rows research by 44 to 94 percent. or in hills of soil. Thin to two plants GROWING GUIDELINES: Plan per group if needed. Side-dress with your rotations so that heavy-feeding organic fertilizer when plants are 6 corn follows a nitrogen-boosting inches (15 cm) tall and again when crop of beans, alfalfa, or clover. they are knee-high. Start checking Sow seed after all danger of frost your corn for ripeness about three has passed and soil is warm. Plant weeks after the silks appear. Press a in blocks to assure good pollina- fingernail against one of the ker- tion, interplanting with single rows nels; if the sap looks milky, it’s time of beans if desired. to harvest.

17 GROWING GUIDELINES: Co s m o s Cosmos are easy to grow from seed and easy Cosmos spp. to transplant, even when quite large. CO M P O S I TA E After danger of frost has passed, 1 direct-sow seed ⁄4 inch (6 mm) ALLIES: None known. deep in average, well-drained soil in full sun. Thin seedlings to stand COMPANIONS: The flat daisy-like about 3 inches (7.5 cm) apart, and flowers of cosmos make a good pinch them when young and single- landing platform for honeybees and stemmed to encourage bushiness beneficial insects seeking nectar or and branching. C. bipinnatus gr o w s pollen. Plant either Cosmos bipin- fast and lush, and it occasionally natus, the old-fashioned, ferny- falls over from its own weight, snap- foliaged plant with pink, red, and ping a heavy branch of buds or white flowers, or C. sulphureus, the bloom. To salvage the plant, stick hot-colored, shorter type. The the broken end of the branch into abundant foliage offers shelter to the ground a few inches deep, or lay predatory insects. it horizontally and mound 2 to 3 ENEMIES: None known. inches (5 to 7.5 cm) of soil over the

18 stem. Keep the soil wet while new cucumbers will serve as a trap crop roots form from the stem. It will for black cutworms. recover in less than a week. COMPANIONS: Interplant trellised COMMENTS: Both types of cosmos cucumbers with lettuce, celery, or are beautiful in bouquets. Try a few Chinese cabbage, all of which grow stems of orange ‘Klondike’ blooms, well in the light shade of the vines. buds, and spiky seed heads in a Or grow cucumbers with cabbage, green vase for an arrangement of broccoli, or cauliflower; by the time almost oriental simplicity. the cucumbers begin to sprawl, the Cosmos is also an excellent plant earlier crops should be ready for for attracting birds to the garden. harvesting. Goldfinches are particularly fond of ENEMIES: Potatoes growing near the seeds and often hang upside cucumbers are reputed to be more down, feasting on them from the susceptible to Phytophthora blight. tips of branches bowed beneath Companion gardeners also warn their weight. that aromatic herbs and cucumbers do not make good neighbors. Cucumber GROWING GUIDELINES: Grow cucumbers in hills or rows in fer- Cucumis sativus tile, well-drained soil in full sun. 1 CU C U R B I TA C E A E Sow seed ⁄2 inch deep, or set out transplants 3 weeks after the last ALLIES: Cucumbers are reputed to spring frost date, when soil has grow better and yield more when warmed. Thin or space plants to planted with beans, cabbage, corn, stand 12 inches (30 cm) apart. peas, or radishes. Some companion Water regularly to keep the soil gardeners believe that radishes lure evenly moist and help prevent bitter away cucumber beetles or that pun- fruit. Apply an organic fertilizer, like gent-smelling marigolds repel them. fish emulsion, monthly. Radishes and onions are supposed Grow cucumbers on vertical trel- to keep away root maggots. lises to save precious gardening Research has shown that cucum- space and make harvesting easier. bers interplanted with broccoli or Keep cucumbers picked regularly, corn are less likely to be ravaged by before they yellow, to encourage the cucumber beetles or affected by the vines to keep producing. bacterial wilt the beetles carry. Some studies show that some types COMMENTS: If diseases are a of cucumber inhibit weed growth. problem in your area, select dis- Spiny amaranth (Amaranthus spin- ease-resistant cultivars such as osus) plants standing among ‘Marketmore 76’ or ‘Sweet Slice’.

19 tomatoes planted near dill will fail Dill to thrive. Anethum graveolens GROWING GUIDELINES: Dill can UM B E L L I F E R A E be temperamental about germinat- ing. It sprouts better in cool rather 1 ALLIES: Dill is a useful plant in the than hot weather. Sow seed ⁄4 inch companion garden, thanks to its (6 mm) deep and 4 inches (10 cm) big, airy umbels of many tiny flow- apart in spring in average, well- ers. Mud daubers and other large drained soil in full sun. Thin predatory wasps, as well as many seedlings to stand 8 to 12 inches smaller beneficials, visit the flowers (20 to 30 cm) apart. Sow every 2 regularly and may return to your weeks for a continuous supply. garden when they need caterpillars Once you have a thriving dill patch, to feed their young. Companion gar- chances are you’ll have it for years; deners say that dill improves the it self-sows liberally. growth and health of cabbage and CO M M E N T S : Do n ’ t be alarmed by related crops. It’s also reputed to an infestation of green-black-and- repel aphids and spider mites, most yellow caterpillars on your dill. Let likely because of its aroma. Dill may the creatures feed; they’ll turn into be effective as a trap crop for thick, graceful black swallowtail butterflies. green tomato hornworms. Handpick the pests, or pull and destroy infested crops. (Don’t destroy caterpillars with little white Garlic cocoons on their backs, though; Allium sativum these have been parasitized by ben- AM A RY L L I D A C E A E eficial wasps.) ALLIES: Garlic is often recom- COMPANIONS: Sow dill with let- mended by companion gardeners as tuce, onions, or cucumbers; the an insect-repelling plant, especially plants’ habits complement each for planting around roses and for other well. deterring Japanese beetles and ENEMIES: Many growers are con- vinced that dill reduces the yield of carrots. This belief may be rooted in the fact that both plants are susceptible to some of the same dis- eases. Some companion gardeners believe that

20 aphids. Science has proven insecti- contains a number of individual cidal qualities of garlic sprays, but ; plant them one by one to its effectiveness as a companion mature into fat bulbs. Give garlic a plant in the garden is unconfirmed. site with loose, rich soil in full sun. CO M PA N I O N S : Plant garlic between Plant cloves 2 inches (5 cm) deep tomatoes, eggplants, or cabbage and 4 inches (10 cm) apart. Mulch plants, or use as a border planting. to keep weeds down, and water during dry spells. ENEMIES: Garlic, like onions, is A 20-foot (6 m) row will yield 5 to said to have a negative effect on 10 pounds (2.5 to 5 kg) of garlic. peas, beans, and other legumes. Timing the harvest is a little tricky: GROWING GUIDELINES: Plant too early and bulbs will be small; garlic in fall, around Columbus Day, too late and the outer skin may tear, for a vigorous crop. Garlic needs a making the bulbs store poorly. Wai t chilling period for best growth, and until leaves begin to turn brown, fall-planted bulbs will benefit from then check the status of one head the winter cold. The bulbs will put before you harvest the whole crop. out a few roots before winter, but Hang bulbs by the leaves to dry, or green shoots usually won’t appear weave them into a braid. until spring. COMMENTS: Garlic oil is a proven Some supermarket bulbs are insecticide and may have some effect treated with antisprouting chemi- on fungal or bacterial diseases. cals, but others will yield a perfectly acceptable garlic crop. Each bulb

21 grow tall and crooked with age, an Geranium appealing look to some companion Pelargonium spp. gardeners but not to others. To GE R A N I A C E A E reclaim an old plant, cut the stems back to short stubs; this will encour- ALLIES: The pungent foliage of age vigorous new growth. Pot up the flowering and scented geraniums is cuttings to get more plants. appealing to companion gardeners COMMENTS: The dense, leafy but not to garden pests. The showy growth provides welcome hiding flowering types of geranium are places for insect predators, espe- reputed to repel cabbageworms, cially spiders. Scented types add corn earworms, and Japanese bee- appealing texture to ornamental tles. The scented ones are thought beds. Try the rose-scented ‘Grey to deter red spider mites and cotton Lady Plymouth’, with lacy, gray- aphids. Some companion gardeners green leaves delicately edged in believe that white-flowered scented white and pink, or peppermint geraniums are effective as a trap geranium, with large, wide velvety crop for Japanese beetles; handpick leaves. Keep a pot of scented gerani- the beetles from the leaves. ums near walkways, where passers- COMPANIONS: Interplant flowering by will brush against the foliage and or scented geraniums with vegeta- release the fragrance. bles—especially among cabbage and its relatives—or use as a border to the vegetable garden. Plant white- Lettuce or pink-flowering geraniums around Lactuca sativa roses for a pretty (and possibly pest- CO M P O S I TA E controlling) combination. ENEMIES: None known. ALLIES: Many companion garden- GROWING GUIDELINES: ers maintain that lettuce grows best Geraniums are easy to start from when planted near or with straw- cuttings; some types will also grow berries, carrots, cucumbers, cab- from seed. Grow plants in full sun in bage-family crops, and beets. lean to average, well-drained soil. Companion gardening tradition rec- Remove spent flowers on seed- ommends planting lettuce with grown plants to encourage more radishes for the mutual benefit of blooms. In frost-free climates, gera- both crops. niums are perennial; elsewhere, COMPANIONS: Plant lettuce below take cuttings in late summer or pot and around taller vegetables, such up plants when frost threatens and as cabbage, broccoli, and beans, or bring indoors to overwinter. Plants edge a bed with it. Interplant rows 22 of lettuce with rows of beans, well into the summer. In areas with peas, and tomatoes. hot summers, look for heat-resis- ENEMIES: None known. tant cultivars such as ‘Mantilia’, ‘Grand Rapids’, and ‘Summer Bibb’. GROWING GUIDELINES: Lettuce Plant summer lettuce in the shade thrives in fertile, well-drained but of bean trellises or other tall plants. moisture-retentive soil with plenty Harvest lettuce in the morning, of organic matter. Sow seed in full when it is the most juicy and crispy. sun as early as you can work the Pick leaf lettuce as needed. Press soil. Plant lettuce in rows, or broad- down on heading types to check for cast the tiny seeds over a small the springy firmness that indicates patch. Sow as evenly as possible. the head is ready to harvest. When Thin ruthlessly; you can always eat plants start to elongate and send up the thinnings. Allow 12 to 16 inches a flowering stalk, the leaves become (30 to 40 cm) between plants for too bitter to enjoy. heading types; space plants 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) apart for leafy COMMENTS: If you have the space, types. Water regularly to keep plants leave a row of lettuce to flower and growing well, and side-dress with set seed. Lettuce flowers attract a manure tea for rapid growth. Make multitude of insects, including ben- a second and third planting 2 weeks eficials; birds relish the seeds. apart to extend your lettuce harvest 23 ENEMIES: Marigolds appear to be Marigold allelopathic to beans and vegetables Tagetes spp. of the cabbage family. CO M P O S I TA E GROWING GUIDELINES: Sow seed in lean to average soil with full ALLIES: Marigolds have acquired a sun after the last frost, or start with large body of companion gardening purchased plants. Space them 12 to lore surrounding their reputed 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) apart. insect-repelling qualities. Pinch off spent flowers to promote Companion gardeners suggest bushy growth and more flowers. At planting them with cabbage, pota- the end of the season, let a few seed toes, tomatoes, and roses, insisting heads mature and save the seed for that the pungently scented plants next year. control aphids, cabbage loopers, COMMENTS: of marigold imported cabbageworms, Mexican leaves have been effective in sup- bean beetles, and nematodes. Only pressing nematodes; root mulches a few of the claims are backed up are also repellent. These findings by scientific research, and some- suggest that you might be better off times the results are contradictory. tossing pulled-up marigolds on the In addition, marigolds appear to garden rather than on the compost have an allelopathic effect on some pile. neighbors. In one study, French marigolds (Tagetes patula) repelled Mexican bean beetles, but the growth of the beans was stunted, Mint apparently by the presence of the Mentha spp. marigolds. studies are LA B I ATA E more definitive, showing a decrease in population in at least five species ALLIES: These strong-smelling of nematodes. Spectacular nema- plants are favorites with companion tode control resulted when gardeners who believe that the marigolds were interplanted with sharp fragrance repels insect pests. tomatoes. Some believe that mint also improves the vigor and flavor of COMPANIONS: Due to the possible cabbage and tomatoes. allelopathic effects, it’s probably best to plant marigolds and vegeta- COMPANIONS: Mint is notoriously bles in separate beds. Grow the invasive, so don’t allow it free rein marigolds as a and turn in your garden. If you want to grow them into the soil at the end of the mint around your crops, plant it in season. pots and set the pots near the plants

24 you want to protect. Place a saucer and cover it in a few places with 1 beneath the pot to prevent the roots about ⁄2 inch (12 mm) of patted- from creeping into the garden soil. down soil. Keep the soil moist until Some low-growing mints, such as vigorous new growth appears, usu- pennyroyal, are not as rampant as ally in just a few weeks. Seed-grown taller apple mint, spearmint, and mint may or may not have a strong other species. scent; rub a leaf and sniff before ENEMIES: None known. buying potted garden-center mints to make sure you are getting what GROWING GUIDELINES: Grow you want. Even a young seedling mint in average soil in full sun or should have a strong, distinctive partial shade. Extra moisture will smell of peppermint, spearmint, or encourage more vigorous whatever it is being sold as. growth. Buy plants or beg a cutting from a friend or neigh- COMMENTS: Spearmint and pep- bor to start your patch; permint, some say, will repel ants mint cuttings are on plants or in the kitchen. Lay a extremely easy to root. fresh sprig in drawers and Lay the clipping horizon- on shelves. Mints may also tally on the surface of aver- help protect woolens age to lean soil in full sun, from moth damage.

25 encourage blooms during hot Nasturtium weather. Tropaeolum majus COMMENTS: The colorful, spurred TR O PA E O L A C E A E flowers attract hummingbirds. They are also a charming and flavorful ALLIES: Companion gardeners rec- garnish for salads. ommend nasturtiums as a trap crop for aphids; pull up and destroy the infested plants. Nasturtiums are also Onion said to deter pests—including Allium cepa whiteflies—from beans, cabbage and its relatives, and cucumbers. AM A RY L L I D A C E A E Some companion gardeners plant ALLIES: Some gardeners believe nasturtiums where they will later that onions thrive with cabbage, plant their squash, hoping to keep beets, strawberries, and lettuce. squash bugs away. Scientific trials Summer savory planted nearby is show conflicting evidence. In some said to improve their flavor. Onions tests, pests are reduced; in others, interplanted with potatoes are the nasturtiums had no effect, or believed to deter Colorado potato worse, appeared to draw pests to beetles. Some companion gardeners the garden. It’s worth conducting plant onions with carrots to fend off your own field trials. carrot rust flies that cause root COMPANIONS: Nasturtiums are maggots, and many plant onions available in compact or trailing around rose bushes to deter pests. forms. They flower well in poor soil COMPANIONS: Shallow-rooted, and tend to produce more leaves narrow-growing onions are easy to than flowers if you plant them in squeeze in anywhere in the garden. the rich soil of the vegetable garden. Interplant them with annual or Trailing types are pretty in a window perennial vegetables or use as box with marigolds and other borders to edge a bed. annuals. ENEMIES: Peas, beans, and sage ENEMIES: None known. are the traditional bad neighbors GROWING GUIDELINES: Nastur- for onions. tiums grow and flower best in aver- 1 GROWING GUIDELINES: Use age to poor soil. Plant seed ⁄2 inch bulbs, or “sets”, for interplanting— (12 mm) deep in full sun in well- they are easy to pop into the drained soil after danger of frost ground, singly or in handfuls, wher- has passed. Thin or space plants to ever you want them. Many compan- stand 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) ion gardeners plant sets one by one, apart. Mulching and watering will

26 pointed-side up, but if you are sow- ing a lot of onions for eating green and don’t mind crooked stems, you can simply pour the sets from the bag into the row. Cover them with 1 inch (2.5 cm) of soil and firm the surface; the new shoots will right themselves. When onion tops yellow, knock them over. Dig the bulbs when the tops turn brown. Dry them in the sun in rows, laying the first row in one direction and the next row in the opposite direction. Lay the tops of the second row over the bulbs of the first row to prevent sunscald. When skins are completely dry, wipe off the soil, remove the tops, and store the bulbs in a cool, airy spot. You can also keep the dried tops on and braid the onions for storage. COMMENTS: Select a cultivar best suited to your gardening climate and season length; check seed cata- logs for recommendations.

27 winter’s worth of this versatile herb Parsley by chopping and freezing in zip- Petroselinum crispum pered plastic bags. In order to UM B E L L I F E R A E attract beneficial insects to the gar- den, let a few plants flower and go ALLIES: Many companion garden- to seed. Tiny parasitic wasps are ers are convinced that parsley especially fond of the very small repels asparagus beetles. Others flowers, which are clustered togeth- believe that parsley reduces carrot er in umbels. rust flies and beetles on roses. Interplanted parsley may also help invigorate tomatoes. COMPANIONS: Rosettes of dark green parsley add a neat, old-fash- ioned touch to all kinds of garden beds. Plant parsley around the base of roses. ENEMIES: None known. GROWING GUIDELINES: Pa r s l e y is notoriously slow to germinate— according to an old homily, the seeds go to the devil and back seven times before breaking through the soil. Buy young plants, or sow seed shallowly in spring. Grow parsley in full sun or light shade in well- drained, average soil. After the new plant is established, harvest sprigs as needed. Parsley blooms in its second year and sometimes self- sows if you let a few seed heads st a n d . COMMENTS: Dried parsley quickly loses flavor. Save a

28 in full sun. Sow seed 1 inch (2.5 Pea cm) deep in early spring, up to 2 Pisum sativum months before the last expected LE G U M I N O S A E frost. Some gardeners start peas indoors in individual peat pots. Thin ALLIES: Companion gardeners or space plants to stand 3 inches believe this nitrogen-fixing legume (7.5 cm) apart. Mulch to control stimulates the growth of corn, weeds and keep the soil evenly beans, potatoes, tomatoes, radishes, moist. Give plants a trellis to climb, carrots, turnips, and cucumbers. or let short-vining cultivars trail on Scientific research indicates that the ground. After you harvest an exudates from the roots of cabbage- early crop of peas, remove the vines family crops may help prevent pea and plant squash, beans, or other root rot. crops to utilize the space. COMPANIONS: Grow tomatoes, COMMENTS: A weedy garden may eggplants, lettuce, or spinach in the improve your pea crop. Researchers shade of trellised pea plants. The found that white mustard shelters a pea vines also protect these tender parasite of pea aphids, and weeds crops from wind damage. Alternate also provide an egg-laying site for rows of peas with shade-tolerant hover flies, which parasitize aphids Chinese cabbage. and other soft-bodied pests. ENEMIES: Onions and garlic are Pea greens are an oriental delica- reputed to have a negative effect on cy. Plant an extra row of peas and the growth of peas. leave them unthinned to supply your kitchen with these tasty, delicate GROWING GUIDELINES: Peas greens. thrive in average, well-drained soil

29 COMPANIONS: Plant peppers with Pepper okra for protection from sun and Capsicum frutescens, wind damage. They often drop their Grossum group blossoms in temperatures over 90°F SO L A N A C E A E (32°C); keep them cool by growing with taller plants that will provide ALLIES: Companion gardeners rec- some shade during the hottest part ommend planting peppers with car- of the day. rots and onions for vigorous growth ENEMIES: Some companion gar- and good flavor. Basil, lovage, mar- deners keep kohlrabi and fennel joram, and oregano are also said to away from pepper plants. It’s best to stimulate their growth. Gardeners in keep peppers away from beans; India use marigolds to protect pep- both are susceptible to anthracnose, pers and other crops from nema- a disease that causes dark, soft todes. Scientific studies indicate spots on fruits. marigolds are effective in reducing GROWING GUIDELINES: Buy aphids on peppers; other strong- nursery-grown seedlings, or start smelling plants, such as coriander, seed indoors in peat pots 8 weeks catnip, onions, nasturtiums, and before the last spring frost. Seeds tansy, may have the same effect. are slow to germinate, often waiting 3 to 4 weeks to make an appear- ance. Thin to one plant per pot when they reach 3 inches (7.5 cm) high, snipping off the extras with a

30 pair of small scissors. Transplant to beetles away from the crop to lay fertile, well-drained soil in full sun, their eggs on the weeds, especially 2 to 3 weeks after the last spring when the weeds are growing upwind. 1 frost. Space plants 1 ⁄2 to 2 feet (45 COMPANIONS: Plant lettuce, to 60 cm) apart; hot peppers toler- radishes, and green onions with ate closer spacing than sweet pep- potatoes; they mature long before pers. Mulch to maintain even mois- the tuber crop is ready to dig. ture, and water during dry spells to prevent bitterness. A dose of fish ENEMIES: Companion gardeners emulsion when plants are in flower say potatoes may be more suscepti- can help increase yields. Sweet pep- ble to blight if grown near raspber- pers turn from green to red, yellow, ries, pumpkins, tomatoes, squash, or purple as they mature, getting cucumbers, and sunflowers. sweeter with the color change; pick GROWING GUIDELINES: Potatoes at any stage. Hot peppers also thrive in loose, fertile, well-drained change color when it’s time to pick. soil in full sun. Cut whole potatoes into pieces, each with two or three “eyes” (growing points), and let Potato them dry for a day before planting. Solanum tuberosum Plant the pieces as soon as you can work the soil, spacing them 6 to 12 SO L A N A C E A E inches (15 to 30 cm) apart and 4 AL L I E S : Many companion gardeners inches (10 cm) deep. As the vines recommend planting potatoes with grow, pull soil over the developing beans, cabbage, corn, or horse- tubers to prevent them from turning for improved growth and fla- green, or cover them with compost, vo r . They also often recommend leaves, or straw. Some companion marigolds to ward off pests and gardeners grow potatoes in cages; sometimes plant eggplants as a trap fill the cage with straw as the plants crop for Colorado potato beetles. grow, leaving only 3 to 4 inches Tests at the Rodale Research Center (7.5 to 10 cm) of leaves exposed. in Pennsylvania with plantings of cat- Blossoms are a sign that new nip, coriander, nasturtium, and tansy potatoes are ready to harvest. resulted in a slightly reduced infesta- Uncover a layer and pluck off tubers tion of beetle larvae. According to that are big enough to eat; cover the one study, tomato-family weeds such rest. When the tops of the plants as jimson weed and nightshade begin to die back, it’s harvest time. attract female Colorado potato

31 rose in an old rose’s “grave”: Rose Disease pathogens or allelopathic Rosa spp. substances that hinder the growth of RO S A C E A E a new plant of the same genus may be lurking in the soil. ALLIES: Alliums—including garlic, GROWING GUIDELINES: Roses onions, leeks, and chives—are need at least 6 hours of sun each reputed to protect roses against day, and they must have excellent black spot, mildew, and aphids. drainage. They do best in fertile soil Parsley is said to repel rose beetles. enriched with humus or other Some companion gardeners suggest organic material. In most climates, that strongly aromatic herbs may fall is the best time for planting also repel aphids. bareroot roses. (You can plant COMPANIONS: You can grow bareroot roses in winter in very roses in a bed of their own, or mild climates; spring is a better weave them into perennial beds and time in areas with very cold win- borders. Use shrub types, such as ters.) Plant container-grown roses disease-resistant rugosa roses anytime during the growing season. (Rosa rugosa), for hedges or barri- Dig the hole deep enough so the ers or to provide food and shelter graft union—the scar on the stem for wildlife. Low-growing plants, that indicates where the rose has such as creeping thyme or sweet been budded onto its rootstock—is alyssum, make attractive ground- at or just below the soil surface. covers beneath rose bushes; these Trim canes back to 8 inches (20 small-flowered plants may also cm), and mulch plants with com- attract beneficials to protect roses. post. After the first hard frost, prune ENEMIES: As with all members of roses back halfway, and mulch the rose family, never plant a new deeply with loose leaves or coarse

32 compost, mounding it around the herb gardens. The small flowers will canes. Prune off and destroy any attract many bees. diseased leaves or branches. ENEMIES: None known. GROWING GUIDELINES: Grow Rosemary from cuttings or buy a started plant. Rosmarinus officinalis This tender perennial often won’t survive the winter in areas colder A B I ATA E L than Zone 7. Use as a pot plant in Northern gardens, or plant it out ALLIES: Rosemary is popular as a during summer and pot up cuttings companion for cabbage, broccoli, and related crops, as well as carrots for overwintering. In containers or and onions. Its fragrance is said to in the garden, rosemary thrives on repel insects; companion gardeners heat. Plant in full sun in average, use it for cabbage flies, root maggot well-drained soil. Never allow con- flies, and other flying pests. tainer plantings to dry out; rose- mary does not recover from severe COMPANIONS: Gardeners in warm wilting. climates—especially the Pacific Southwest, where rosemary reaches COMMENTS: Rosemary has also shrub proportions—can enjoy this won favor as a defense against attractive, aromatic plant as a hedge clothes moths. Banckes wrote in his or border. Prostrate types make Herbal: “Take the flowers and put beautiful groundcovers for stony them in thy chest among thy clothes banks or streetside rock gardens. or among thy Bookes and Mothes Rosemary is a natural addition to shall not destroy them.”

33 drained soil. Sow seed shallowly Sage indoors in late winter or outdoors in Salvia officinalis late spring. Space plants about 24 LA B I ATA E inches (60 cm) apart. Trim back drastically in early spring to encour- ALLIES: Many companion garden- age vigorous, bushy new growth. ers believe that sage improves the Plants may decline after several growth and flavor of cabbage, car- years; take cuttings or divide in rots, strawberries, and tomatoes. spring or fall to have a steady supply. They also believe that it deters cab- COMMENTS: A branch of strongly bage-family pests such as imported aromatic sage is a fragrant addition cabbageworms and root maggot to a sweater drawer or blanket flies. In one study, cabbageworms chest, and it may help keep clothes were not reduced by companion moths away. Herbalists recommend plantings with sage; another study of the herb for increasing longevity— sage spray revealed some effective- and for keeping your mind sharp. ness in controlling the pest. Sage is also thought to grow well with mar- joram. Squash COMPANIONS: The plentiful, usu- spp. ally blue, flowers of this perennial CU C U R B I TA C E A E herb are attractive to bees and other insects, including beneficials. Use AL L I E S : Squash, one of the sage as a border planting, or dot the American Indians’ “three sisters,” is plants among annual or perennial traditionally grown with corn and vegetables; they grow to an appre- beans. Some companion gardeners ciable size in just one season. Sage recommend a nearby planting of is an attractive plant for a steep, dry radishes, nasturtiums, or mint and bank. Purple-leaved or tricolored other aromatic herbs to cultivars work well in combination repel insect pests with the usual gray-leaved sage. ENEMIES: Sage is thought to stunt the growth of cucumbers. Many companion gardeners believe that sage and rue make poor neighbors. Long ago, people believed that sage and onions had a negative effect on each other in the garden. GROWING GUIDELINES: Sa g e needs full sun and average, well-

34 such as squash bugs. Studies at the cm) apart. You can also grow win- Rodale test gardens have shown a ter squash up sturdy trellises to save possible reduction of squash bugs on space; suspend ripening fruits in a zucchini paired with catnip or tansy. panty-hose sling. Water with fish COMPANIONS: Summer squash, emulsion every 3 to 4 weeks. Mulch such as crookneck and zucchini, with straw to keep the soil moist. Gently guide straying vines back grow on bushy, nonvining plants. where they belong. Winter squash, such as acorn, but- Summer squash fruits grow fast. ternut, and Hubbard, produce very Pick them every few days, while they long vines. Plant both kinds with are still young and tender, to keep corn. Tall sunflowers are another the plant producing. Harvest winter suitable companion crop. squash when the shell is too hard to ENEMIES: Gardening lore suggests dent with a fingernail. Let winter that squash plants may inhibit the squash cure in the sun for 10 to 14 growth of potatoes. days; cover if frost is expected. GROWING GUIDELINES: Squash COMMENTS: Squash are suscepti- thrives in fertile, well-drained soil in ble to various pests and ailments full sun. After the last frost, plant that can cause serious damage. seed 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep when Watch for signs of trouble, like wilt- the soil has warmed. Space summer ing vines, which can indicate squash squash 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) borers or bacterial wilt; destroy apart; winter, 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 infected plants.

35 can transplant the thinnings. Plants Sunflower are drought-tolerant, but mulching and regular watering will encourage CO M P O S I TA E larger seed heads. COMMENTS: Before you cross ALLIES: None known. sunflowers off your companion list, COMPANIONS: Sunflowers are do a little experimenting yourself. commonly planted with corn, Most research has been done on the beans, and squash. Plant a strip of sunflower’s effect on weeds, such as tall-growing sunflowers between jimson weed, velvetleaf, Johnson plantings of popcorn and sweet grass, and others, not on home gar- corn to block wind-borne pollen den crops. that could cross-pollinate the crops. If you enjoy growing sunflowers for their blooms, plant a variety of ENEMIES: Research is turning up colors, and be sure to grow extras strong evidence of allelopathy in for cutting. ‘Lemon Gem’ has black sunflowers, in both wild types and seeds and sulfur yellow petals; other cultivars. Wild sunflowers, a com- cultivars, including ‘Autumn Beauty’, mon crop weed, have been shown ‘Music Box Mix’, and ‘Velvet Queen’, to inhibit or prevent the growth of offer russets, burgundy, or yellow many species of plants. Field and blotched with brown. laboratory studies show that culti- vated types can be equally detrimen- tal to some of their neighbors. Just Thyme how significant the effect is in the Thymus spp. home garden has yet to be deter- LA B I ATA E mined. Most home companion gar- deners notice no detrimental effects ALLIES: Companion gardeners rec- from the plants; some claim that the ommend planting thyme with just sunflower hulls dropped from bird about everything in the garden; this feeders inhibit plant growth around herb is said to improve flavor and the base of the feeder. repel pests. Eggplants, cabbage, GROWING GUIDELINES: potatoes, and tomatoes are often Sunflowers couldn’t be simpler to mentioned as companions. grow. They thrive in average soil in Scientific evidence is sparse; in one full sun. In spring, after danger of study, the presence of thyme 1 frost has passed, push a seed ⁄2 inch appeared to increase the population (12 mm) deep into the soil every 6 of cabbageworms on neighboring inches (15 cm); thin to 18 to 24 plants. Another study suggests that inches (45 to 60 cm) apart. You thyme sprays may be more effective

36 at masking plants from pests that GROWING GUIDELINES: Thyme seek hosts by smell. thrives in poor to average, well- COMPANIONS: Grow only non- drained soil in full sun. Common spreading types of this herb in the thyme is easy to grow from seed vegetable garden. Common thyme sown shallowly indoors in late win- (Thymus vulgaris), an upright, ter. Sprinkle the seed generously shrubby type, is a good choice for into pots. Buy other species and interplanting with vegetables. cultivars as plants from garden cen- Spreading, mat-forming thymes, ters. Cuttings are extremely easy to such as the popular woolly thyme root. Layering is also a good way to (T. pseudolanuginosus), the rapid- create more plants; simply nudge a ly creeping nutmeg thyme (T. bit of soil over a low-growing herbabarona ‘Nutmeg’), and many branch and anchor with a stone. others, are best kept in separate Sever the rooted plant from the beds or in the herb and flower gar- mother when it begins producing den. Delicately pretty in leaf and vigorous growth and resists a slight flower, a carpet of thyme makes a tug. Divide older plants in spring. beautiful underplanting for roses. COMMENTS: A sampler garden of ENEMIES: None known. thymes, including yellow-edged lemon thyme (T. x citriodorus), diminutive woolly thyme, white- edged silver thyme (T. x citriodorus ‘Argentea’), and other favorites, is easy and appealing.

37 said to deter hornworms. In one Tomato st u d y , intercropping tomatoes with Lycopersicon plants of the cabbage family resulted esculentum in reduced populations of diamond- SO L A N A C E A E back moths and flea beetles in the cabbage-family crops. ALLIES: Companion gardeners Gardeners often interplant plant tomatoes with asparagus, marigolds with tomatoes to control broccoli, cauliflower, cabbages, car- nematodes, but studies indicate that rots, and onions, hoping for the best way to control nema- improved growth and flavor. todes—if they are indeed a prob- Aromatic basil, parsley, and sage are lem in your garden—is to plant a also supposed to make tomatoes whole bed of marigolds, then turn it even more of a treat; under and follow it with tomatoes. dill and borage are COMPANIONS: Surround tomatoes with aromatic herbs, or plant them into an already-growing bed of spinach, lettuce, or other fast- growing crops. ENEMIES: Black walnut roots cause tomato plants to wilt and die. Companion gardeners believe that tomatoes fail to thrive when planted near fennel or potatoes. Avo i d planting tomatoes where relat- ed plants, such as eggplants and potatoes, grew the previ- ous 2 years. GROWING GUIDELINES: Tomatoes thrive in full sun in deep, fertile, well-drained soil. 1 Start plants from seed sown ⁄4 inch (6 mm) deep indoors, 5 to 6 weeks before the average date of the last expected frost in your area. Or, buy nursery- grown plants. After all danger of frost has passed, set plants out in the garden; make the hole deep enough so soil

38 covers the stem up to the bottom add a dash of color. Be sure to grow leaves. Space them 12 to 24 inches a few rows just for cutting; cut flow- (30 to 60 cm) apart if you plan to ers stay fresh for over a week with cage or trellis the plants; allow 36 to no special treatment. 48 inches (90 to 120 cm) between ENEMIES: None known. plants if you plan to let them sprawl. GROWING GUIDELINES: Zinnias Mulch with compost in midsummer, thrive in full sun in average, well- and water once with fish emulsion drained soil and are at their best in when plants are in bloom. hot summer weather. They are among the quickest and easiest annuals you can grow from seed. Zinnia 1 Direct-sow ⁄4 inch (6 mm) deep in Zinnia elegans spring after danger of frost has CO M P O S I TA E passed. Deadhead regularly to keep the flowers coming. Powdery ALLIES: Zinnias attract insects of mildew often causes dusty white all kinds to the garden with their spots on the foliage. Antidessicant bright flowers and bushy foliage. sprays may help protect leaves. Or, Nectar-seeking wasps and hover look for resistant species and culti- flies are two of the beneficials that vars, such as Zinnia angustifolia. come to the feast. Zinnias also COMMENTS: Let some plants go to attract butterflies of many species, seed to attract goldfinches and from small coppery metalmarks to other seed eaters to the garden. big, showy swallowtails. Easy-to-grow zinnias are a great COMPANIONS: Zinnias are out- way to introduce children to the standing plants for beds, borders, pleasures of growing flowers. Young and containers. These rewarding, gardeners are particularly enchant- gaily colored annuals bloom prolifi- ed by peppermint-striped cultivars cally from summer until frost. and extra-small miniatures, such as Interplant in the vegetable garden to ‘Thumbelina’.

39