Nasturtiums are among the most versatile and beneficial plants in any garden. Their bright, edible flowers and trailing foliage make them a favorite for ornamental gardens, but they also serve a much greater purpose.
When strategically planted, nasturtiums can improve soil health, deter pests, and support the growth of neighboring plants. This technique, known as companion planting, helps create a more balanced and productive garden ecosystem.
In this guide, we’ll explore why you should consider companion planting for nasturtiums, the best plants to grow alongside them, plants to avoid planting near them, and tips for ensuring they thrive with their companions.
Why You Should Consider Companion Planting for Nasturtiums
Companion planting is a gardening technique where different plants are grown together to enhance growth, deter pests, and improve yields. Nasturtiums, in particular, offer numerous benefits:
1. Pest Control
Nasturtiums act as trap crops, attracting aphids, whiteflies, and other pests away from vegetables like tomatoes and beans. They also deter squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and certain caterpillars that can damage crops.
2. Attracting Beneficial Insects
These plants produce nectar-rich flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, as well as predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on harmful pests.
3. Soil Health Improvement
Nasturtiums help improve soil quality by acting as ground cover, reducing soil erosion, and preventing the growth of weeds. Their trailing habit also helps retain moisture in the soil, benefiting nearby plants.
4. Edible and Medicinal Benefits
Nasturtium leaves, flowers, and seeds are edible and rich in vitamin C. They add a peppery kick to salads and can be used in herbal remedies.
Best Companion Plants for Nasturtiums
When choosing companion plants for nasturtiums, consider vegetables, herbs, and flowers that will benefit from their protective qualities. Here are some of the best plants to grow alongside nasturtiums:
1. Tomatoes
Nasturtiums help deter aphids and whiteflies, which are common pests for tomatoes. They also create a beautiful contrast with their bright flowers trailing alongside tomato vines.
2. Cucumbers
Nasturtiums repel cucumber beetles, reducing the risk of damage to cucumber plants. Additionally, their ground-covering nature helps retain soil moisture for cucumbers.
3. Cabbage and Other Brassicas (Broccoli, Kale, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts)
These vegetables often attract cabbage worms and aphids. Nasturtiums serve as a sacrificial crop, drawing pests away from brassicas and minimizing damage.
4. Peppers
Like tomatoes, peppers benefit from nasturtiums’ ability to deter aphids and other sap-sucking insects. Nasturtiums also help retain soil moisture for pepper plants.
5. Radishes and Carrots
Nasturtiums improve root crop health by repelling pests like root maggots. They also provide ground cover, keeping soil cool and moist for radishes and carrots.
6. Beans and Peas
Nasturtiums attract beneficial insects that help control aphids and other common pests that attack legumes.
7. Squash and Pumpkins
By repelling squash bugs and cucumber beetles, nasturtiums help protect squash and pumpkins from infestations.
8. Fruit Trees (Apple, Cherry, Peach, Plum, etc.)
Nasturtiums help deter fruit tree pests such as aphids and whiteflies while also attracting pollinators.
9. Marigolds and Calendula
Planting nasturtiums alongside other beneficial flowers like marigolds and calendula increases pest deterrence while creating a stunning floral display.
10. Herbs (Basil, Dill, Mint, Thyme, and Chives)
Nasturtiums pair well with these herbs to create a pest-resistant zone while enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
Plants to Avoid Planting Near Nasturtiums
While nasturtiums are beneficial to many plants, some crops do not thrive when grown alongside them. Avoid planting the following near nasturtiums:
1. Potatoes
Nasturtiums can attract aphids and other pests that may spread to potato plants, increasing their vulnerability to diseases.
2. Lettuce
Nasturtiums can outcompete lettuce for space and nutrients, potentially stunting its growth.
3. Fennel
Fennel tends to inhibit the growth of many plants, including nasturtiums, due to its allelopathic properties (the release of chemicals that suppress neighboring plants).
4. Brussels Sprouts (in Small Spaces)
Although nasturtiums benefit brassicas, Brussels sprouts require ample space to grow. If planted too close, nasturtiums may interfere with their growth.
Tips for Growing Companion Plants with Nasturtiums
To get the best results from companion planting with nasturtiums, follow these tips:
1. Choose the Right Variety
There are trailing, bush, and dwarf varieties of nasturtiums. Use trailing types for ground cover and vertical growth, while compact bush types work well in raised beds and container gardens.
2. Plant in Strategic Locations
- Surround vegetable patches with nasturtiums to protect crops from pests.
- Grow them along garden borders or near susceptible plants like tomatoes and cucumbers.
- Use them in fruit tree guilds to enhance pollination and pest control.
3. Encourage Pollination
Nasturtiums attract bees and butterflies, which improve pollination rates for companion plants like cucumbers, squash, and tomatoes.
4. Maintain Proper Spacing
Although nasturtiums are beneficial, they can become invasive if left unchecked. Ensure they do not overcrowd slow-growing or low-lying crops like lettuce and carrots.
5. Provide Support for Trailing Varieties
Use trellises or stakes for trailing nasturtium varieties to prevent them from overwhelming nearby crops while still benefiting the garden.
6. Water and Fertilize Wisely
Nasturtiums thrive in poor to moderately fertile soil, so avoid over-fertilizing them. Too much nitrogen encourages excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
7. Harvest and Prune Regularly
To keep nasturtiums in check, trim back overgrown vines and harvest flowers and leaves regularly for salads and garnishes.
Conclusion
Companion planting with nasturtiums is a simple yet effective way to create a healthier and more productive garden. Regardless if you’re growing vegetables, herbs, or fruit trees, nasturtiums provide numerous benefits, from pest control to improved pollination. By selecting the right companions and following essential growing tips, you can harness the full potential of these vibrant and multi-functional plants.
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