When it comes to gardening, understanding companion planting is crucial. Nasturtiums, with their vibrant blooms and peppery leaves, are a favorite among gardeners. But what should you not plant next to nasturtiums? Let’s delve into this topic.
Understanding Companion Planting
Companion planting is a time-tested gardening technique that involves growing different plants together for mutual benefit. It can help deter pests, improve pollination, and enhance plant growth. However, not all plants make good neighbors.
According to the University of Florida IFAS Extension, nasturtiums are particularly beneficial in companion planting due to their ability to attract beneficial insects and deter harmful ones. But, they also have some specific needs and dislikes when it comes to their plant neighbors.
Plants to Avoid Near Nasturtiums
While nasturtiums are generally easy to grow and get along with many plants, there are a few you should avoid planting next to them. These include:
- Broccoli: This vegetable is a heavy feeder and can compete with nasturtiums for nutrients.
- Garlic: Garlic can inhibit the growth of nasturtiums, according to a study by the University of Maryland Extension.
- Potatoes: Potatoes and nasturtiums both attract the same type of beetle, which can lead to an infestation.
These plants can negatively impact the growth and health of your nasturtiums, so it’s best to keep them separated in your garden.
Factors Influencing Plant Compatibility
Soil Preferences
Nasturtiums prefer well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Planting them next to plants that prefer alkaline soil or require constant moisture can lead to problems.
For instance, broccoli prefers slightly alkaline soil, which can hinder the growth of nasturtiums. Similarly, plants that require a lot of water, like watercress, can lead to overwatering of nasturtiums, causing root rot.
Pest Attraction
Some plants attract pests that can also harm nasturtiums. For example, as mentioned earlier, potatoes attract the Colorado potato beetle, which also feeds on nasturtiums. Planting these two together can lead to a higher chance of infestation.
Similarly, according to the USDA, nasturtiums are susceptible to aphids. Therefore, avoid planting them next to plants that are known aphid magnets, like roses.
Best Practices for Planting Nasturtiums
Now that we know what not to plant next to nasturtiums, let’s look at some best practices for planting these vibrant flowers.
- Choose the right location: Nasturtiums prefer full sun to partial shade. Ensure they get at least 5-6 hours of sunlight each day.
- Prepare the soil: Nasturtiums prefer well-drained soil. Add organic matter to improve soil structure if necessary.
- Watering: Water nasturtiums regularly, but avoid overwatering. The soil should be slightly dry before watering again.
- Maintenance: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Regularly check for pests and treat as necessary.
By following these steps, you can ensure your nasturtiums thrive and bring beauty to your garden.
Conclusion
Companion planting is a valuable tool in the gardener’s arsenal, but it’s essential to know which plants make good companions and which do not. Nasturtiums, while beneficial to many plants, have a few they’d rather not share space with. By understanding these preferences, you can create a harmonious and productive garden.
Remember, the key to successful gardening is observation and adaptation. Monitor your plants, understand their needs, and adjust your gardening practices accordingly. Happy gardening!
Join Our Gardening Community
Ready to take your gardening skills to the next level? Subscribe for free to How to Grow Everything and learn how to build the garden of your dreams! Receive personalized advice tailored to your grow zone, experience, and interests. Enjoy the best gardening tips, special offers, and insights delivered straight to your inbox—no spam, just valuable knowledge from our family to yours. Start growing smarter today!