Boost your corn harvest with these 7 strategic companion plants, ensuring larger yields and protection against pesky pests
In the fascinating world of vegetable gardening, companion planting plays a significant role in ensuring a bountiful harvest while combating potential pest problems. One popular crop that benefits greatly from this practice is corn.
Corn, a staple in many diets for its delicious taste when freshly harvested, can thrive in harmony with a variety of plants. The "Three Sisters" - corn, beans, and squash - have been a successful combination for many gardeners and traditional agriculture systems.
Beans, including cowpeas, are not just companions for corn but also provide numerous benefits. They fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching it for the heavy-feeding corn, and use corn stalks as natural trellises. Beans also have the added advantage of suppressing weeds.
Squash plants, particularly winter squash, are another excellent companion for corn. They provide ground cover, helping to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture, benefiting both corn and beans.
Lettuce and spinach, which thrive in the shade, can be planted near the base of corn plants or in rows along the side to act as a ground cover and help retain moisture in the soil. This not only reduces the risk of bolting in hot weather but also helps suppress weeds.
Marigolds, especially French marigolds, are a must-have in any corn garden. They repel common corn pests like corn earworm and aphids, and also attract beneficial predatory insects while preventing harmful nematodes in the soil.
Corn, however, should avoid being planted with peppers, tomatoes, and eggplant. These crops are targeted by the corn earworm, increasing the chances of infestations if grown together.
To control aphid populations, nasturtiums can be planted near corn. They are effective trap plants, attracting aphids away from the corn plants. The 'Alaska' nasturtium seeds produce a mix of blooms in shades of red, pink, orange, and yellow, adding a splash of colour to your garden.
Thyme, a fragrant herb, can be grown in containers near corn plants or at the ends of rows to repel the corn earworm.
Lastly, it's essential to provide corn with a good-sized block for good wind pollination and watering in hot spells. With these companions and care, you're well on your way to a thriving corn crop in your vegetable garden.
[1] Companion Planting for a Healthier Garden, National Gardening Association, www.garden.org/learn/techniques/companionplanting.html
[2] The Art of Companion Planting, The Old Farmer's Almanac, www.almanac.com/gardening/companion-planting
[3] The Three Sisters: Corn, Beans, and Squash, Mother Earth News, www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/2018-04/the-three-sisters-corn-beans-and-squash-zmaz1804
In this holistic approach to gardening, introducing companion plants like beans, squash, marigolds, nasturtiums, and thyme can benefit the growth and resilience of the corn crop, playing a significant role in improving the overall food-and-drink, lifestyle, and home-and-garden landscape. Crafting effective recipes for successful vegetable gardening may include thoughtful companion planting selections to enhance the harvest yield and combat potential pest problems.
