Growing strawberries is a favorite pastime of many gardeners.
However, to get a rich harvest, it is important not only to properly care for the crop itself, but also to choose its neighbors wisely.
What plants will be the best companions for this aromatic berry?
The Benefits of Neighborhood for Strawberries
Proper selection of companion plants can significantly improve the growth and fruiting of strawberries.
Some crops are able to repel pests, others - improve the composition of the soil or create a favorable microclimate.
Proper neighborhood will help reduce the use of chemical pesticides and increase crop yields.
Garlic and onions are reliable defenders
Garlic and onions are excellent neighbors for strawberries. Their strong smell repels many pests, including slugs and snails, which often cause serious damage to berry plantings.
In addition, these plants secrete substances that help improve the immunity of strawberries to various diseases.
Legumes – natural fertilizers
Peas, beans and other legumes are excellent neighbors for strawberries. They enrich the soil with nitrogen, which is necessary for the healthy growth of berry bushes.
After harvesting legumes, their roots can be left in the ground, where they will continue to enrich the soil with nutrients.
Spinach and lettuce - protection from weeds
Low-growing leafy vegetables such as spinach and lettuce pair well with strawberries.
They create a natural mulch that prevents weed growth and retains moisture in the soil. In addition, these plants do not compete with strawberries for nutrients.
Marigolds are natural insecticides
Marigolds not only decorate strawberry beds, but also perform a protective function.
Their roots secrete substances that repel nematodes, microscopic worms that can damage the root system of strawberries. The bright flowers of marigolds also attract beneficial pollinating insects.
Parsley and dill – aromatic helpers
Herbs such as parsley and dill have a beneficial effect on the growth of strawberries.
Their aroma repels some pests, and their root system helps loosen the soil. In addition, these plants attract beneficial insects that help in the fight against pests.
Calendula – a multifunctional neighbor
Calendula is an ideal plant to grow next to strawberries.
Its bright flowers attract pollinators, while its roots secrete substances that prevent the development of pathogenic fungi in the soil. In addition, calendula emits a strong aroma that helps repel many pests.
Sage and Thyme – Aromatherapy for Berries
Aromatic herbs such as sage and thyme not only add extra flavor to strawberries, but also protect them from pests.
These plants also attract bees and other pollinators, which helps to improve berry set.
Avoid these plants
Although strawberries can grow successfully next to many plants, there are some that are best not planted in close proximity.
Cabbage, tomatoes and potatoes can compete with strawberries for nutrients in the soil and can also carry diseases that are dangerous to strawberries.
Also, avoid planting raspberries and other berry bushes near strawberries, as they may shade the lower-growing plants.
