Growing Ruby Queen Beets in your garden can be a rewarding experience, especially when you understand the art of companion planting. This method of gardening, which involves planting certain plants together for mutual benefits, can enhance the growth, flavor, and health of your Ruby Queen Beets. However, it’s also important to know which plants can have a detrimental effect on your beets. Let’s explore the best and worst companion plants for Ruby Queen Beets.
Understanding Companion Planting
Companion planting is a time-honored gardening practice that involves growing different plants close to each other for mutual benefits. It can help to deter pests, enhance growth, and improve the flavor of your crops. According to the The Spruce, companion planting can also help to maximize the use of space in your garden.
However, not all plants make good companions. Some plants can compete for nutrients, attract harmful pests, or inhibit each other’s growth. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand which plants make good companions for your Ruby Queen Beets and which ones to avoid.
Best Companion Plants for Ruby Queen Beets
There are several plants that make excellent companions for Ruby Queen Beets. These plants can enhance the growth and flavor of your beets, deter pests, and provide other benefits.
Onions
Onions are a great companion plant for Ruby Queen Beets. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, onions can help to deter pests that can harm beets, such as aphids and beetles. Additionally, onions and beets do not compete for nutrients, making them a good match in the garden.
However, it’s important to give each plant enough space to grow. Plant your onions and beets at least 12 inches apart to ensure they have enough room to grow and develop.
Garlic
Like onions, garlic is another good companion plant for Ruby Queen Beets. Garlic can help to deter pests and can also enhance the flavor of your beets. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, garlic can enhance the flavor of various vegetables, including beets.
Plant your garlic and beets at least 12 inches apart to ensure they have enough space to grow. Also, remember to rotate your crops each year to prevent the buildup of diseases and pests.
Marigolds
Marigolds are not only beautiful, but they can also be beneficial to your Ruby Queen Beets. Marigolds can help to deter pests, such as nematodes and beetles, that can harm your beets. According to the USDA, marigolds can also help to improve soil health by adding beneficial nutrients.
Plant your marigolds around the perimeter of your beet patch to create a protective barrier against pests. However, be sure to give each plant enough space to grow and develop.
Plants to Avoid Planting with Ruby Queen Beets
While there are many plants that can benefit your Ruby Queen Beets, there are also some that can harm them. These plants can compete for nutrients, attract harmful pests, or inhibit the growth of your beets.
Pole Beans
Pole beans are not a good companion for Ruby Queen Beets. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, pole beans and beets can compete for nutrients, particularly for phosphorus. This competition can inhibit the growth of your beets and reduce their yield.
Therefore, it’s best to avoid planting pole beans near your Ruby Queen Beets. If you must grow these plants in the same garden, be sure to give them plenty of space and rotate your crops each year to prevent nutrient depletion.
Mustard Greens
Mustard greens can also be harmful to your Ruby Queen Beets. According to a study published in the Crop Protection Journal, mustard greens can attract pests, such as aphids and beetles, that can harm beets. Additionally, mustard greens can compete with beets for nutrients.
Therefore, it’s best to avoid planting mustard greens near your Ruby Queen Beets. If you must grow these plants in the same garden, be sure to give them plenty of space and rotate your crops each year to prevent pest buildup and nutrient depletion.
Conclusion
Companion planting can be a powerful tool in your gardening arsenal, especially when growing Ruby Queen Beets. By understanding which plants make good companions for your beets and which ones to avoid, you can enhance the growth, flavor, and health of your crops. So, why not give companion planting a try in your garden this year?
Remember, the key to successful companion planting is understanding the needs and characteristics of each plant. Always give each plant enough space to grow, rotate your crops each year, and monitor your garden regularly for signs of pests or disease. Happy gardening!
Join the How to Grow Everything Community
Ready to take your Ruby Queen Beets and entire garden to the next level? Subscribe for free to How to Grow Everything and learn how to build the garden of your dreams! Receive personalized gardening advice tailored to your grow zone, experience, and interests. Enjoy the best gardening tips, special offers, and insightful articles, all delivered directly to your inbox. Join our family of garden enthusiasts and start growing everything with confidence today—100% free, no spam, just pure gardening gold.
