Top 5 Companion Planting Combinations to Boost Crop Yields ๐ฑ๐ผ๐ฐ
Hello there, fellow gardener! I know how difficult it can be to get the most out of your crops. Thatโs why Iโm here to share with you my favorite companion planting combinations that have helped me boost my crop yields and make some extra cash at the farmerโs market ๐ฉโ๐พ๐ฐ
1. Tomatoes and Basil ๐ ๐ฟ
Tomatoes and basil are the perfect companions because they not only taste great together, but they can also help each other grow. Basil repels tomato hornworms, which can be a nuisance to tomatoes. Meanwhile, tomatoes provide shade for the basil, which prefers cooler temperatures.
To get the most out of this combination, make sure to plant the basil around the base of your tomato plants. This way, the two plants can easily share nutrients and water ๐ง
2. Carrots and Onions ๐ฅ๐ง
Carrots and onions are another great pairing because they complement each other in both taste and growth. Carrots release chemicals that help deter onion flies, while onions repel carrot flies. Additionally, the strong smell of onions can help confuse the carrot fly from finding their target.
When planting this combination, make sure to plant the onions between the rows of carrots. This way, the onions can act as a natural barrier for any pests attempting to reach the carrots ๐
3. Cucumbers and Corn ๐ฅ๐ฝ
Cucumbers and corn are a classic combination that works wonders for both plants. Cucumbers grow up the corn stalks, which provides them with shade and support. In return, the cucumber plants can help deter raccoons from eating the corn by giving them a different scent to focus on.
To get the most out of this combination, plant the corn first and then the cucumbers a few weeks later once the corn is established. This way, the cucumbers will have a strong support system to grow on ๐ฑ
4. Beans and Beets ๐ฑ๐
Beans and beets make a great duo because they complement each other both visually and in growth. The tall bean plants can provide support for the shorter beet plants, while the beets can provide ground cover to help retain moisture for the beans. Additionally, the nitrogen-fixing properties of beans can help provide the necessary nutrients for the beets to thrive.
When planting this combination, make sure to plant the beans first and then the beets a few weeks later. This way, the beans will have time to establish themselves before the beets take over the area ๐ฟ
5. Radishes and Spinach ๐๐ฅ
Radishes and spinach are a great combination because they grow fast and help keep the soil healthy. Radishes can help break up compacted soil and bring nutrients to the surface, while spinach helps keep the soil moist and cool. Additionally, the spicy flavor of radishes can help deter pests from eating the spinach.
When planting this combination, make sure to plant the radishes first and then the spinach a few weeks later. This way, the radishes will have time to do their job before the spinach takes over ๐ฑ
And there you have it! My top 5 companion planting combinations to boost your crop yields. Remember, companion planting is all about experimenting and finding what works best for your garden. Happy planting! ๐ฑ๐ผ