Planting Asparagus: Best Companion Plants

Introduction

Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is easily grown in the home garden. It is a long-lasting perennial crop that produces delicious spears year after year. While planting asparagus, it is important to remember to consider its companion plants. Companion planting is a method of planting different crops together, which enhances growth and deters pests. This article will highlight some of the best companion plants for asparagus.

Companion Plants for Asparagus

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a great companion plant for asparagus. They both have similar soil and watering requirements, making them great neighbors. Additionally, tomato plants attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to the garden, which can help keep pests away from the asparagus bed.

Basil

Basil is another plant that works well with asparagus. It has pest-repelling properties and can help keep nematodes away from the soil, which can damage the roots of asparagus. Additionally, basil produces essential oils that can help combat fungal and bacterial infections in asparagus plants, protecting them from disease.

Chives

Chives are an excellent companion plant for asparagus. They help to repel insects and can deter pests like aphids and Japanese beetles. Additionally, chives produce an odor that can mask the scent of young asparagus plants, which can help to prevent animals like rabbits and deer from eating them.

Plants to Avoid with Asparagus

Potatoes

Potatoes are not a good companion plant for asparagus. They are members of the same family as asparagus, which means that they can attract the same pests and diseases. Additionally, planting potatoes and asparagus together can deplete the soil of certain nutrients, which can stunt the growth of both plants.

Onions

Onions are another plant that should not be planted with asparagus. They release a chemical that can stunt the growth of asparagus plants, making them less productive. Additionally, onions can attract pests like onion maggots, which can damage the roots of asparagus.

Conclusion

Companion planting is a great way to encourage the growth of healthy and productive crops like asparagus. By choosing the right companion plants for your asparagus bed, you can enhance its productivity and protect it from pests and diseases. Tomatoes, basil, and chives are all great companion plants for asparagus, while potatoes and onions should be avoided. By planting asparagus with the right companion plants, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious and nutritious spears year after year.