These Six Companion Plants Make The Most Beneficial Neighbors In Your Watermelon Garden
There’s nothing better than biting into a juicy, sweet slice of watermelon on a hot summer day.
But, while watermelons are a favorite warm-weather treat, growing them can still sometimes be a challenge.
One way to boost your chances of a bountiful watermelon harvest is by using the age-old practice of companion planting.
By strategically planting certain crops alongside your watermelons, you can create a thriving garden ecosystem that promotes healthy growth, deters pests, and enhances flavors.
The Benefits Of Companion Planting
Companion planting is more than just placing plants next to each other. It’s about understanding the relationships between different plants and how they can benefit one another.
When done correctly, companion planting can improve growth, as some plants release chemicals that promote the growth of their neighbors. It can also repel pests, as certain plants can deter insects and other pests that might harm your crops.
Moreover, the right companions can actually enhance the flavor of fruits and vegetables. Lastly, companion planting allows you to make the most of your garden space by growing compatible plants together.
So, here are the six best companion plants for your watermelon crop.
Andrii Zastrozhnov – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only
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Corn
Corn is actually a fantastic companion for watermelon because, as a tall plant, it provides shade for watermelon vines – protecting them from intense sunlight and helping to retain soil moisture.
Additionally, corn acts as a natural trellis, allowing watermelon vines to climb and spread without taking up too much ground space.
Corn thrives in well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. It also needs full sun to grow optimally.
Garlic
Garlic, on the other hand, is a powerful pest deterrent thanks to its strong aroma. So, planting garlic near your watermelons can help repel aphids, beetles, and other insects that might otherwise feast on your precious fruits.
Plus, garlic is relatively low maintenance and can be harvested before the watermelons fully mature.
It grows best in loamy soil with good drainage and requires moderate watering to avoid waterlogged soil. It can also tolerate full sun to partial shade.
Radish
Radishes are quick-growing root vegetables that can act as a living mulch, suppressing weeds and helping to keep the soil loose and aerated.
Their fast growth cycle also means they can be planted and harvested multiple times during the watermelon growing season, providing continuous benefits.
Radishes just prefer loose, well-drained soil and consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged. They do best in full sun to partial shade.
Dill
When it comes to dill, this beloved herb can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and predatory wasps that help control aphids and other pests.
Of course, it also adds a delightful fragrance to your garden and can be harvested for culinary uses. Finally, dill’s feathery foliage doesn’t compete with watermelon vines for space, making it an ideal companion.
Dill grows best in well-drained soil, requires moderate watering, and needs full sun for optimal growth.
Basil
Basil is known for its aromatic leaves, which can repel pests such as mosquitoes and flies. Plus, it even enhances the flavor of nearby fruits and vegetables, including watermelon.
Basil’s compact growth habit also means it won’t overshadow or compete with your watermelon vines.
Basil thrives in rich, well-drained soil and needs regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. Additionally, it requires full sun to flourish.
Marigold
Last but not least is marigold, a popular choice for companion planting due to this plant’s pest-repelling properties.
Marigolds can deter nematodes, aphids, and other harmful insects with their strong scent. Not to mention, they add a splash of bright color to any garden.
Marigolds grow best in well-drained soil and need regular watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. They also require full sun for optimal growth.
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