Asparagus Planting Companions: The Ultimate Guide To Growing More Asparagus

Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed for many years if it is planted properly. One of the keys to successful asparagus cultivation is companion planting. Companion planting is the practice of planting different types of plants together in order to benefit each other. There are many different plants that can be good companions for asparagus, but some of the best include:

• Nightshades: Nightshades, such as tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, release a chemical called solanine that helps to repel asparagus beetles. Asparagus beetles are one of the most common pests of asparagus, so planting nightshades nearby can help to protect your crop.
• Basil and parsley: Basil and parsley are both herbs that can help to repel asparagus beetles. They also attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, which can help to control pests.
• Coriander, comfrey, and dill: These herbs are all good at repelling spider mites and aphids, which are other common pests of asparagus. They also help to improve the soil quality, which can benefit the growth of asparagus.
• Members of the Aster family: Flowers in the Aster family, such as marigolds and nasturtiums, can help to attract predatory insects that feed on asparagus pests. They also help to deter rabbits and deer, which can be a problem for asparagus plants.
• Lettuce and spinach: These leafy greens can be planted between asparagus rows in the spring. They will help to shade the soil and prevent weeds from growing, which can help to protect the asparagus plants.

In addition to these specific plants, there are a few general principles that can be followed when companion planting asparagus. First, it is important to avoid planting alliums, such as garlic, onions, and leeks, near asparagus. Alliums can stunt the growth of asparagus. Second, it is a good idea to plant some type of flowering plant near asparagus. Flowers can attract beneficial insects that help to control pests, and they can also add beauty to the garden.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your asparagus plants thrive. Companion planting is a great way to improve the health and productivity of your asparagus crop, and it can also help to make your garden more attractive.

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FAQ of asparagus planting companions

• What are good companion plants for asparagus?

Some of the best companion plants for asparagus include:

• Nightshades: Tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers all release a chemical called solanine that helps to repel asparagus beetles. Asparagus, in turn, helps to deter root-knot nematodes, which can damage the roots of nightshade plants.

• Herbs: Basil, parsley, coriander, comfrey, and dill are all good companion plants for asparagus. They help to repel insect pests, such as aphids and spider mites, and they can also improve the flavor of asparagus spears.

• Flowers: Marigolds, nasturtiums, and petunias are all good companion plants for asparagus. They help to attract pollinators, which can help to improve the yield of asparagus plants.

• What are some of the benefits of companion planting with asparagus?

There are several benefits to companion planting with asparagus, including:

• Disease and pest control: Companion plants can help to deter pests and diseases that can damage asparagus plants. For example, the solanine in nightshades helps to repel asparagus beetles, while the herbs basil and parsley help to repel aphids and spider mites.

• Improved growth and yield: Companion plants can help to improve the growth and yield of asparagus plants. For example, the flowers marigolds and nasturtiums attract pollinators, which can help to increase the number of asparagus spears that are produced.

• Enhanced flavor: Companion plants can also enhance the flavor of asparagus spears. For example, the herbs basil and parsley can add a subtle, but delicious, flavor to asparagus spears.

• When should I plant companion plants with asparagus?

The best time to plant companion plants with asparagus is in the spring, when the asparagus plants are first starting to grow. This will give the companion plants enough time to establish themselves before the asparagus plants start to produce spears.

• How far apart should I plant companion plants with asparagus?

The distance between companion plants and asparagus plants will vary depending on the size of the companion plants. However, a good rule of thumb is to plant companion plants at least 12 inches away from asparagus plants.

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• Nightshades: Tomatoes, eggplant, and peppers all help to deter asparagus rust, a common fungal disease.
• Basil: Basil helps to repel asparagus beetles, a common pest.
• Parsley: Parsley helps to improve the flavor of asparagus.
• Coriander: Coriander helps to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help to control pests.
• Comfrey: Comfrey helps to improve the soil quality, which benefits asparagus plants.
• Dill: Dill helps to repel asparagus beetles and other pests.
• Marigolds: Marigolds help to repel asparagus beetles and other pests.
• Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums help to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help to control pests.
• Lettuce: Lettuce helps to suppress weeds, which can compete with asparagus plants for nutrients and water.