Arugula Companion Plants
Top 10 Arugala Companion Plants
Most seasoned gardeners know the importance of companion planting for maximizing plant growth and health. Concerning cultivating arugula in your garden, choosing the right companion plants can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 companion plants that can thrive alongside your arugula, enhancing its flavor, repelling pests, and promoting overall garden harmony. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these companion plants will help you create a thriving and bountiful arugula garden.
Key Takeaways:
- 1. Dill with Arugula: Dill attracts beneficial insects that prey on arugula pests.
- 2. Arugula and Nasturtium: Nasturtiums can repel pests like aphids and whiteflies from arugula plants.
- 3. Mint and Arugula: Mint can help deter pests that commonly affect arugula, such as flea beetles.
- 4. Arugula and Radishes: Radishes can help improve soil health and break up compacted soil for arugula roots to grow better.
- 5. Marigolds and Arugula: Marigolds can repel nematodes and other harmful pests that may target arugula plants.
Herbs That Enhance Arugula Growth
Basil
Any herb gardener knows that basil is a fantastic companion plant for arugula due to its ability to enhance the growth and flavor of this peppery green. Basil releases oils that can help repel pests such as aphids and hornworms which might otherwise undermine the health of your arugula plants. Additionally, basil’s aromatic foliage can contribute to a vibrant, healthy garden ecosystem.
Cilantro
The herb cilantro, also known as coriander, is a fantastic companion plant for arugula. That plants help each other thrive by deterring harmful insects and attracting pollinators. Cilantro is rich in important oils that can confuse pests, keeping them away from arugula. This herb also enhances the flavor of arugula when used together in salads or other dishes.
Flowering Companions for Arugula
Marigolds
For arugula lovers looking to add some color and pest-deterrent properties to their garden, marigolds are the perfect flowering companion. Marigolds not only add a vibrant touch to your garden but also help in repelling harmful pests. Their strong scent deters nematodes and other insects that may harm your arugula plants. Planting marigolds alongside your arugula can also attract beneficial insects that can help pollinate your crops.
Nasturtiums
Companions to arugula, nasturtiums are not only beautiful but also serve multiple purposes in the garden. These flowers are known for their edible leaves and flowers, adding a peppery kick to salads. Nasturtiums also act as a trap crop, enticing aphids away from your arugula plants. Their sprawling nature can also provide shade to the arugula during hot summer days.
In addition to their culinary and pest-repelling properties, nasturtiums are rich in vitamin C and have antimicrobial properties. These flowers can also serve as sacrificial plants, drawing pests away from your arugula crop.
Vegetable Allies for Arugula
Bush Beans
To maximize your arugula’s growth and flavor, consider planting it alongside bush beans. These two vegetables complement each other well in the garden. Bush beans provide nitrogen to the soil, which arugula thrives on, promoting its leafy growth and peppery taste. Additionally, the taller arugula plants serve as a natural shade for the lower-growing bush beans, helping retain moisture in the soil and preventing weed growth.
Beets
Arugula and beets make great companions in the garden. Arugula benefits from the presence of beets as they help deter pests such as aphids. Beets also have a shallow root system that does not compete with arugula’s deeper roots, allowing both plants to thrive in harmony. Moreover, beets are a cool-season crop, while arugula prefers cooler temperatures, making them ideal planting partners for an extended growing season.
Understanding Beets
Beets are not only a flavorful addition to your dishes but also an excellent ally for arugula in the garden. Their vibrant roots add beauty to your garden beds while their pest-repellent properties benefit arugula’s growth. Planting these two crops together can enhance the overall health and productivity of your vegetable garden.
Aromatic Companions to Deter Pests
Garlic
Now, let’s talk about garlic, a fantastic companion plant for arugula. Garlic emits a strong scent that repels pests like aphids, cabbage loopers, and Japanese beetles, keeping your arugula safe from harm. Companion planting arugula with garlic not only helps protect it from pests but also enhances the flavor of the arugula leaves.
Chives
On to chives, another aromatic herb that is a great companion for arugula in the garden. Chives help deter pests such as carrot flies, aphids, and Japanese beetles due to their strong onion scent. Planting chives alongside arugula can act as a natural pest control method while adding a flavorful punch to your arugula dishes.
For instance, chives can help safeguard your arugula from pests by masking its scent, making it less appealing to insects. Additionally, chives are easy to grow and can thrive in various conditions, making them a low-maintenance companion plant for arugula.
Summing up on Arugala Companion Plants
Conclusively, choosing the right companion plants for your arugula can greatly benefit your garden. By planting compatible plants like peas, spinach, and nasturtiums alongside your arugula, you can improve growth, deter pests, and enhance the flavor of your harvest. However, it’s crucial to avoid planting arugula near incompatible plants like strawberry and nightshade family members. To learn more about the best and worst companion plants for arugula, visit Best + Worst Arugula Companion Plants For Your Garden.
FAQ’s about Arugala Companion Plants
Q: Why should I consider arugala companion planting?
A: Companion planting can help improve the growth, flavor, and overall health of your arugula plants. By selecting the right companion plants, you can boost their natural defenses and deter pests.
Q: What are some benefits of planting basil alongside arugula?
A: Basil is a great companion plant for arugula as it can enhance the flavor of arugula leaves. Additionally, basil has natural pest-repelling properties that can help protect your arugula from common pests.
Q: How can planting marigolds benefit my arugula crop?
A: Marigolds are known for their ability to repel harmful insects and nematodes in the soil. Planting marigolds alongside arugula can help protect your crop from these pests while adding a pop of color to your garden.
Q: Is it true that planting radishes with arugula can improve the growth of both plants?
A: Yes, radishes are excellent companion plants for arugula. They can help repel pests such as cucumber beetles and rust flies while also enhancing the growth and flavor of arugula.
Q: How can planting nasturtiums alongside arugula be beneficial?
A: Nasturtiums are not only visually appealing but also serve as a natural trap crop for aphids and other pests that might affect arugula. They can help protect your arugula while attracting beneficial insects to your garden.
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