- Legumes are plants that capture nitrogen from the atmosphere and, together with Rhizobium bacteria in the roots, transform nitrogen into a palatable nutrient. Beans, peas and clover are examples of plants that provide their own nitrogen. At the end of the season, legumes replenish the soil with nitrogen as they decompose. Crops such as corn and carrots benefit from the nitrogen provided by beans, peas and other legumes. Avoid planting onions with beans or peas, since onions stunt the growth of these legumes.
- Many herbs and fragrant ornamental plants release chemicals that deter pests. African marigold exudes thiopene, a substance that repels nematodes, according to the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service. Marigolds are good companions to vegetables such as eggplant and tomato. Herbs also ward off pests from vegetable gardens. Rosemary deters carrot flies, cabbage moths and bean beetles. Thyme discourages cabbage worm and is an ally of broccoli, cauliflower and other plants in the cabbage family. Nasturtium is a good companion to pumpkin, squash and melons, warding away beetles and other pests.
- Tall and short plants often complement each other in the garden. Leafy vegetables that tolerate shade, such as lettuce, do well under the canopy of taller plants, such as corn or trellised vegetables. Squash and pumpkins are also good companions to corn. Mixing shade and sun-loving vegetables is an efficient use of space and a way to increase plant diversity, which results in a reduction of pests.
- One of the key strategies in organic gardening is encouraging beneficial insects, spiders and birds to the garden. In a balanced system, beneficial organisms snack on pests, reducing infestations. Companion planting of fragrant flowers, such as dill, parsley and coriander alongside vegetables attract wasps and other beneficial insects.
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