Jocelyn

Growing a banana tree (Musa spp.), including plantains, is more effective with the right setup and companions. These Musaceae family plants grow best in full sun, loamy, well-drained soil, and a pH of 6.5–7.5. They thrive in USDA zones 9–11 with regular moisture and warmth. Banana trees develop upright pseudostems from layered leaf sheaths, supported … Read more

Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes) is a cool-season vegetable with a turnip-like taste. It has a round stem that grows above ground in purple or light green. Companion planting with kohlrabi helps improve growth, control pests, and save space. Good companions include beets, cucumbers, onions, lettuce, dill, thyme, mint, and sage. These plants boost nutrients, … Read more

Have you ever tasted a salad with a peppery kick? That bold flavor often comes from arugula, a quick-growing leafy green that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Known scientifically as Eruca sativa, arugula is more than just a salad staple. It’s full of fiber, rich in vitamins and minerals, and supports heart health, digestion, … Read more

Heuchera, commonly called coral bells, are shade-tolerant perennials known for their colorful foliage and delicate bell-shaped flowers. They grow well in USDA zones 4 to 9 and prefer partial sun (4–6 hours daily) with neutral to slightly acidic, well-drained soil. These low-maintenance plants are ideal for garden borders, containers, or woodland gardens and provide multi-season … Read more

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance herb that adds both beauty and function to any garden. Their grass-like leaves and purple blooms suit various soil types and reliably return each year. Besides offering mild onion flavor, chives are valued in companion planting for their natural pest-repelling properties and ability to support plant health. They … Read more

Asparagus benefits from companion planting with strawberries, dill, tomatoes, eggplant, and marigolds. These plants help protect asparagus by repelling pests, reducing weed growth, and improving soil quality. Their presence supports healthier, stronger asparagus plants and can even enhance the flavor of the spears. In contrast, avoid planting asparagus near onions, garlic, and potatoes, as these … Read more

Lemon verbena is a flowering plant from the Verbena family, also called lemon beebrush. It has tiny purple or white flowers that bloom in late summer. This perennial grows in USDA Zones but is often treated as an annual in cold areas. It’s short-lived and usually replaced every few years. Gardeners love its shiny, lance-shaped … Read more

Bok choy, also called Chinese cabbage, has dark green leaves and white stalks. It grows well with the right companion plants, which can help reduce pests and improve growth. Best companion plants for bok choy are beans, carrots, garlic, chamomile, celery, mint, nasturtiums, dill, and clover. These plants deter pests, attract beneficial insects, or use … Read more

Turnips are cool season, nutrient-rich root vegetables with a sweet, peppery flavor and edible greens. They’re easy to grow, and through companion planting, they can support a healthier garden ecosystem by boosting nearby plant growth and deterring pests naturally. The best companion plants for turnips include garlic, peas, beans, nasturtiums, marigolds, mint, thyme, leafy greens, … Read more

Want bigger, sweeter cantaloupes? Companion planting can help. Place marigolds nearby to repel pests. Add bush beans to improve soil. Borage attracts pollinators. Other good companions are basil, mint, oregano, lettuce, corn, nasturtium, wildflowers, radishes, collard greens, and bee balm. These plants protect your cantaloupes and support better growth. Avoid planting near potatoes, cucumbers, or … Read more