Nasturtiums, known for their vibrant flowers and peppery leaves, are not only aesthetically pleasing but also a versatile and beneficial addition to any herb garden. These colorful beauties have a natural ability to repel pests, attract pollinators, and enhance the flavors of neighboring plants. By strategically choosing herbs to plant alongside nasturtiums, one can create a symbiotic relationship that results in a flourishing and harmonious garden. In this article, we will explore the herbs that thrive in the company of nasturtiums, their complementary qualities, and the benefits they bring to both the garden and the table. So, let’s dive into the fascinating world of what herbs to plant with nasturtiums.
key Takeaways
- Nasturtiums can be planted with various herbs to enhance their growth and flavor.
- Mint is a great companion herb for nasturtiums as it acts as a natural pest repellent.
- Basil can also be planted alongside nasturtiums to deter pests and improve the overall flavor of the herbs.
- Marjoram and oregano are herbs that are well-suited to growing with nasturtiums, as they thrive in similar soil conditions.
- Rosemary is a beneficial herb to plant with nasturtiums as it can help deter harmful insects.
What Herbs Should You Plant With Nasturtiums?
1. Benefits of Planting Herbs with Nasturtiums
Plants, including herbs and flowers, can greatly benefit from companion planting. When it comes to growing nasturtiums, planting them alongside certain herbs can provide numerous advantages. Companion plants can help attract beneficial insects, deter harmful pests, enhance soil quality, and improve the overall growth and yield of both the herbs and the nasturtiums.
2. Thyme: A Perfect Match
Thyme, a fragrant herb with small, delicate leaves, is an excellent companion for nasturtiums. Thyme acts as a natural deterrent to several common pests, including cabbage loopers and whiteflies. Additionally, thyme’s strong scent can mask the attractants that pests are drawn to, thus keeping them away from your precious nasturtiums.
3. Dill: A Beneficial Partner
Dill is another herb that pairs well with nasturtiums. This herb attracts beneficial insects like wasps and ladybugs, which are natural predators of harmful garden pests. The presence of dill in your garden can help keep aphids, cucumber beetles, and spider mites at bay. Moreover, dill’s long taproot can improve the soil structure by loosening compacted soil, allowing better water drainage and air circulation.
4. Chives: Adding Some Spice
Chives, known for their mild onion-like flavor, are a versatile herb that complements nasturtiums perfectly. Their purple flowers provide an attractive contrast to the vibrant colors of nasturtium blooms. Chives also act as a natural repellent for pests like aphids and Japanese beetles. Placing chives near nasturtiums can help protect them from these common garden nuisances.
5. Parsley: A Nutrient Booster
Parsley, a popular culinary herb, is not only a tasty addition to your kitchen, but it also serves as a valuable companion for nasturtiums. By planting parsley near your nasturtiums, you can enrich the soil with essential nutrients. Parsley is a dynamic accumulative plant, meaning it absorbs nutrients from deeper soil layers and makes them available to shallower-rooted plants like nasturtiums. This nutrient exchange fosters healthier growth in both plants.
6. Rosemary: Natural Pest Repellent
Rosemary, an aromatic and flavorful herb, is an effective deterrent for numerous pests, making it an ideal companion for nasturtiums. Its strong scent confuses and repels pests like carrot flies, cabbage moths, and bean beetles. By intertwining rosemary with nasturtiums, you create an aromatic barrier that safeguards both plants against potential harm.
7. Mint: Nasturtium’s Protective Shield
Mint, with its potent aroma, is known for its ability to repel a wide range of pests. Placing mint near your nasturtiums can help protect them from pests like ants, flea beetles, and aphids. However, due to its invasive nature, it is recommended to plant mint in containers to prevent it from taking over your garden.
8. Sage: Safeguarding Nasturtiums
Sage, with its soft, silver-green leaves, not only adds aesthetic appeal to your garden but also acts as a guardian for nasturtiums. Sage contains volatile oils that repel pests like cabbage moths, carrot flies, and slugs. In addition, sage can enhance the flavor of dishes when combined with nasturtium leaves or blossoms in culinary creations.
Without a conclusion or summary paragraph, we conclude the article here, providing you with valuable information on what herbs to plant with nasturtiums. Use these companion planting suggestions to create a harmonious garden environment that benefits both your herbs and nasturtium plants.
What Are the Best Companion Herbs to Plant with Nasturtiums?
Nasturtiums are known for their ability to repel pests and enhance the growth of other plants when planted as companions. Here are some of the best herbs to plant alongside nasturtiums:
Basil
Basil is an excellent companion herb for nasturtiums due to its strong aroma, which helps deter pests like aphids, mosquitoes, and flies. It also enhances the growth and flavor of tomatoes when planted nearby. Nasturtiums, with their sprawling nature, provide good ground cover, protecting the soil from drying out and preventing weed growth.
Mint
Mint is another effective herb to plant with nasturtiums. Its strong scent repels pests like ants, rodents, and flies. Mint can also be invasive, so planting it alongside nasturtiums helps contain its growth. Both plants appreciate well-drained soil, so ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Thyme
Thyme is a versatile herb that pairs well with nasturtiums. It is known to deter cabbage worms, beetles, and flies, making it a great companion for various vegetables. Plant thyme near nasturtiums to keep pests away and create a vibrant herb garden.
Chives
Chives are not only a flavorful culinary herb but also a beneficial companion for nasturtiums. Their strong scent repels aphids, carrot flies, and other pests. Plant chives among your nasturtiums to protect neighboring plants and enjoy their vibrant purple flowers.
Rosemary
Rosemary is an excellent companion plant for nasturtiums due to its ability to repel pests like mosquitoes, flies, and cabbage moths. Both plants thrive in similar growing conditions, enjoying full sun and well-drained soil. Consider planting these together to create an aromatic and pest-free garden.