Although most people plant the basil herb in an herb garden, basil pairs well with growing next to tomato plants….and….it is called “companion planting”. Planted next to tomato plants in the garden, basil can be helpful in repelling insects and will help to improve the flavor and growth of the tomato plant. Many plants paired in the garden will work in harmony with nature to produce a balanced agro ecosystem, repelling insects or organisms that are harmful to plants while attracting insects or organisms that are beneficial while at the same time assisting in pollination. While basil is a good friend to asparagus, peppers and works well with oregano in the herb garden, do not plant basil next to sage – they are not friendly! Companion planting has been around for centuries, developed and perfected by our ancestors. The Oneida Indians have used the system of Haudenosaunee (sustainers of life) for centuries by planting corn, beans and squash together. The English cottage garden is a prime example of gardens grown with a mixture of trees, herbs, flowers and vegetables. Although the appearance of a cottage garden gives the impression of a controlled chaos of rioting colors and smells, cottage gardens were carefully designed and planted using the method of companion planting to enhance the produce and harvest of the gardens. Often wooly thyme was planted in the walkways as it is an excellent ground cover, deterred cabbage worms and attracts bees to pollinate the plants. One of the reasons I was attracted to the idea of researching Companion Planting was my reluctance to apply chemicals to an herb that I was going to add to food I was preparing to serve my family. I wanted to care for and grow my garden herbs without the use of harmful chemicals to fertilize or control pests and insects. Companion planting is a friendly way to help nature do its job while enhancing the flavors of the herb plants. Have some fun with research and planning your herb garden to expand outside the confines of the herb garden and into the flower or vegetable garden!
Sandra is a gardening enthusiast, and enjoys helping others get the best out of their mini herb gardens. Her newest book, teaches gardeners everything they need to know about starting, maintaining and getting the most out of their mini herb garden. For more great information on herb gardens, visit http://www.secretstogrowingherbs.com.
Article Directory: EzineArticles
Companion planting has been around for centuries, developed
and perfected by our ancestors. The Oneida Indians have used
the system of Haudenosaunee (sustainers of life) for
centuries by planting corn, beans and squash together. The
English cottage garden is a prime example of gardens grown
with a mixture of trees, herbs, flowers and vegetables.
Join The Landscaping Club
Instant Landscaping Ideas
Gardening Made Easy
Related Products:
