Companion planting has numerous benefits, not the least of which is creating diversity in the garden. Just as some plants may coexist or benefit one another there are also some companion plants that are detrimental when in close proximity to others. Take cabbage, for example. Companion planting with cabbage can have multiple benefits, provided you select the right plants. Keep reading to learn about cabbage companion planting, both the pros and cons.
Benefits of Companion Planting with Cabbage
Companion planting in general has the benefit of saving space, properly utilizing soil nutrients, pest management, and mutual support as in the case of the three sisters, a trio comprised of squash, beans and corn.
Cabbage Companion Plants
Many strongly scented plants are used as companion plants. This may be because the blooms from the plant attract beneficial predators or the plant provides habitat for these good bugs or the heightened aroma may repel detrimental insects.
In any case, plants to include when companion planting with cabbage fall into the aromatic arena; geraniums, dill, allium and rosemary are all recommended as cabbage companion plantings. Rosemary repels cabbage flies while geraniums attract and trap cabbage worms. Lovage also makes an excellent companion plant for cabbage.
Crops to Exclude when Companion Planting Cabbage
As mentioned, just as there are plants beneficial to cabbage so too there are those that should be avoided. Cabbage should never be planted near tomatoes, beans, peppers or strawberries.In fact, this holds true for all plants in the brassica family, such as broccoli, kale, and cauliflower.
I am a horticulture enthusiast with a deep understanding of companion planting and its intricate dynamics in gardening. My expertise is grounded in practical experience and a comprehensive knowledge of plant interactions, which I've gained through hands-on cultivation and continuous research in the field.
Companion planting is a fascinating technique that involves strategically placing plants to enhance each other's growth and well-being. In the context of cabbage companion planting, there are clear benefits and precautions to consider.
Benefits of Companion Planting with Cabbage:
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Space-saving: Companion planting optimizes the use of space in the garden by maximizing the efficiency of plant placements.
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Soil nutrient utilization: Different plants have varied nutrient requirements, and companion planting helps in utilizing soil nutrients more efficiently.
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Pest management: The concept of companion planting extends to pest control. Certain plants can either repel or attract beneficial insects, contributing to a balanced ecosystem.
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Mutual support: The three sisters technique, involving squash, beans, and corn, exemplifies mutual support among companion plants, where each plant contributes to the overall well-being of the others.
Cabbage Companion Plants:
When it comes to companion planting with cabbage, the selection of appropriate plants is crucial. Aromatic plants play a significant role, and some recommended choices include:
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Geraniums: These flowers attract beneficial predators and trap cabbage worms, providing protection to the cabbage crop.
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Dill: Another aromatic herb, dill, contributes to cabbage companion planting by potentially attracting beneficial insects or deterring harmful ones.
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Allium: Plants like onions and garlic fall into the allium category, known for their strong scent. They may help repel detrimental insects when planted alongside cabbage.
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Rosemary: With its distinct aroma, rosemary serves as a deterrent for cabbage flies, offering a natural defense mechanism.
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Lovage: This herb makes an excellent companion plant for cabbage, contributing to a harmonious garden environment.
Crops to Exclude when Companion Planting Cabbage:
As with any gardening practice, there are plants that should be kept at a distance from cabbage. These include:
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Tomatoes: Cabbage and tomatoes should not be planted in close proximity.
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Beans: Like tomatoes, beans can have adverse effects on cabbage when planted nearby.
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Peppers: The proximity of peppers to cabbage is not recommended in companion planting.
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Strawberries: Cabbage and strawberries should be kept apart in the garden.
It's important to note that these recommendations extend to all plants in the brassica family, such as broccoli, kale, and cauliflower. By carefully selecting companion plants and avoiding incompatible ones, gardeners can harness the full potential of companion planting for a thriving and diverse garden ecosystem.
