If you’re a fan of peppery, tangy greens, then you’re probably familiar with Wild Rocket Arugula. This leafy green, also known as roquette, is a staple in many salads and dishes around the world. But did you know that the success of your arugula crop can depend heavily on the plants you choose to grow alongside it? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of companion planting, focusing specifically on what to plant – and not plant – with Wild Rocket Arugula.
Understanding Companion Planting
Before we dive into the specifics of arugula’s best and worst companions, it’s important to understand the concept of companion planting. This age-old gardening practice involves pairing plants that benefit each other when grown together. These benefits can include improved growth, enhanced flavor, and natural pest control.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, companion planting can also help to conserve water, reduce the need for pesticides, and increase biodiversity in your garden. It’s a practice that’s not only good for your plants, but also for the environment.
Best Companion Plants for Wild Rocket Arugula
Now that we’ve covered the basics of companion planting, let’s take a look at the plants that make the best companions for Wild Rocket Arugula.
1. Beans
Beans are a fantastic companion for arugula. They help to fix nitrogen in the soil, which in turn benefits the arugula. Nitrogen is a crucial nutrient for leafy greens, helping them to grow lush and healthy.
Additionally, beans have a growth habit that provides some shade to the arugula, which can prevent it from bolting in hot weather. Bolting is a common problem with arugula, causing it to produce flowers and seeds prematurely and resulting in a bitter taste.
2. Beets
Beets are another great companion for arugula. They have deep roots that help to break up the soil, allowing the arugula’s shallow roots to access water and nutrients more easily.
Moreover, the leaves of the beet plant can provide some shade to the arugula, helping to keep it cool and prevent bolting. And as a bonus, you can harvest both the beetroot and the arugula leaves for a delicious and nutritious salad!
3. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are not only beautiful, but they’re also beneficial to arugula. These vibrant flowers can act as a trap crop for aphids, a common pest of arugula. The aphids are attracted to the nasturtiums and leave the arugula alone.
Furthermore, nasturtiums have a peppery taste that’s similar to arugula, so they can be harvested and used in salads along with the arugula. This makes them a practical and aesthetically pleasing companion plant.
Plants to Avoid Planting with Wild Rocket Arugula
Just as there are plants that make great companions for arugula, there are also plants that should be avoided. These plants can compete with arugula for resources, inhibit its growth, or attract pests.
1. Cabbage Family Plants
Plants in the cabbage family, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale, are not good companions for arugula. They compete for the same nutrients and can stunt the growth of the arugula.
Moreover, these plants can attract pests like cabbage worms and aphids, which can then spread to the arugula. It’s best to keep these plants in a separate part of the garden.
2. Corn
Corn is another plant to avoid growing near arugula. Corn is a heavy feeder, meaning it takes up a lot of nutrients from the soil. This can leave the soil depleted and hinder the growth of the arugula.
Additionally, corn can cast a heavy shade, which can prevent the arugula from getting the light it needs to grow properly.
3. Potatoes
Potatoes are not a good companion for arugula either. They have a different watering requirement than arugula, which can lead to overwatering or underwatering of one or both of the plants.
Furthermore, potatoes can attract pests like the Colorado potato beetle, which can also damage the arugula. It’s best to keep these two plants separate in the garden.
Conclusion
Companion planting is a powerful tool that can help to enhance the growth and flavor of your Wild Rocket Arugula. By choosing the right companions, you can create a thriving, biodiverse garden that’s not only productive but also environmentally friendly.
Remember, the key to successful companion planting is understanding the needs and characteristics of each plant. So, do your research, plan your garden carefully, and watch your arugula – and its companions – flourish!
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