4 Unexpected Plant Pairings That Will Boost Your Garden’s Growth

Did you know that growing certain plants together can actually be beneficial? It’s not just about aesthetics, some plant pairings can help each other grow, while others might end up competing for resources. The trick is knowing which plants play nice with each other and which ones will battle to the death. Here are 4 surprising plant pairings that yield great results.

Marigolds and Basil

One of the best examples of companion planting I've seen in my years as a horticulturist was in a client's vegetable garden where they struggled with aphids attacking their tomatoes. Using my knowledge of plant interactions, I suggested interplanting marigolds and basil among the tomato plants. Marigolds are known to deter aphids with their strong scent, while basil enhances tomato growth and improves flavor. Within weeks, there was a noticeable drop in aphid numbers, and the tomatoes grew healthier and more robust. The marigolds also attracted beneficial insects like ladybugs, which naturally kept the pest population in check. This simple yet effective pairing led to a more productive harvest without the need for chemical pesticides.

Another great success was pairing corn, beans, and pumpkins using the Three Sisters method, a traditional Native American technique. The corn provided a natural support structure for the beans to climb, reducing the need for trellises. The beans, being nitrogen fixers, enriched the soil and boosted the growth of the corn and pumpkins. Meanwhile, the pumpkins spread across the ground, acting as a living mulch that suppressed weeds and retained soil moisture. This combination created a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem that required minimal maintenance while producing a bountiful harvest. My experience and training in horticulture allowed me to implement these strategies effectively, giving my clients healthier gardens and more sustainable growing solutions.

Andrew Osborne, Owner, Ozzie Mowing & Gardening

Marigolds and Young Oak Trees

One of the most successful companion planting combinations I've used involved planting marigolds alongside young oak trees in a residential landscaping project. Marigolds are well known for their natural pest repelling properties, particularly against nematodes and aphids, which can harm young tree roots and foliage. Within just a few months, I noticed that the oaks in this setup had significantly less insect damage compared to similar trees without marigolds nearby. Additionally, the marigolds improved soil health by deterring harmful soil borne pests, which allowed the trees to establish stronger root systems more quickly.

My experience as a certified arborist and over 20 years in the tree care industry helped me recognize this effective pairing, ensuring the trees thrived in their early stages. Another great example was when I planted basil and lavender near a row of ornamental crape myrtles to enhance their natural resistance to powdery mildew, a common fungal issue. Basil has anti-fungal properties, and lavender's strong scent helps deter common tree pests like whiteflies.

Over time, I observed a noticeable reduction in mildew growth on the crape myrtles compared to untreated ones in the same area. The added biodiversity also attracted beneficial pollinators, which helped improve the overall health of the garden. My deep understanding of tree health and pest control, gained from years of hands on experience and training, allowed me to implement these companion planting strategies effectively, creating healthier and more resilient landscapes for my clients.

Amaury Ponce, Business Owner, Ponce Tree Services

Basil and Tomatoes

I paired basil with my tomato plants, and the results were impressive. The basil naturally repelled pests like aphids, helping the tomatoes thrive without chemicals. The tomatoes provided shade, which kept the basil healthy and strong. This simple companion planting technique boosted both plant health and harvests, proving that nature's synergy can work wonders. It's an easy, eco-friendly way to enhance your garden's productivity and reduce pests without extra effort or chemicals.

Frank Sturm, CEO, Green Ace Lawn Care

Marigolds and Tomatoes

As the owner of AJM Grounds LLC, I'm deeply immersed in changing outdoor spaces with sustainable practices. One instance of successful companion planting involved marigolds and tomatoes. These two plants, when used together, yielded fantastic results in both aesthetics and plant health. Marigolds naturally deter nematodes and other pests, making them perfect companions to tomato plants. In a client's garden, we strategically interplanted marigolds with tomatoes, leading to healthier tomato plants with fewer signs of pest damage.

The natural pest control reduced the need for harsh chemicals, aligning with our commitment to eco-friendly landscaping. Another benefit was the improved visual appeal. The bright marigold flowers added vibrant color to the client's vegetable garden, creating an inviting space. This pairing not only improved plant health but also lifted the look of the landscape, showcasing how strategic planting can achieve both practical and aesthetic goals.

John Caplis, Business Owner, AJM Grounds