Companion planting can help enhance the growth and flavor of arugula while promoting a more sustainable and diverse garden. In this article, we'll explore 10 great companion plants for arugula and why they are beneficial.
Basil
Basil is a popular herb that is easy to grow and can be used in various dishes, including salads, soups, and pasta. When grown alongside arugula, basil can help repel pests, such as flies and mosquitoes, while enhancing the flavor of arugula when used in cooking.
Additionally, basil's scent can help deter pests from other plants in the garden.
Beans
Beans are nitrogen-fixing plants that can help to fertilize the soil and improve the growth and flavor of arugula. When grown alongside arugula, beans can provide shade and support for the arugula plants and improve soil health by adding nitrogen to the soil.
Carrots
Carrots are root vegetables that can help to loosen the soil and provide a source of shade for arugula plants. When grown alongside arugula, carrots can also help to repel pests, such as root maggots, and promote healthy soil by adding organic matter.
Chives
Chives are a member of the onion family and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and omelets. When grown alongside arugula, chives can help repel pests, such as aphids and spider mites, while enhancing the flavor of arugula when used in cooking.
Cilantro
Cilantro is an herb that is commonly used in Mexican and Asian cuisines. When grown alongside arugula, cilantro can help repel pests, such as aphids and spider mites, while enhancing the flavor of arugula when used in cooking.
Dill
Dill is an herb that can attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control garden pests. When grown alongside arugula, dill can help to enhance the flavor of arugula when used in cooking while also promoting a healthy and diverse ecosystem in the garden.
Lettuce
Lettuce is another leafy green vegetable that can be a good companion plant for arugula. When grown alongside arugula, lettuce can help provide shade and support for arugula plants, deter pests, and promote healthy soil.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are a popular companion plant for many vegetables, including arugula. They can help repel pests, such as aphids and whiteflies, while attracting beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Additionally, nasturtiums can provide a colorful and edible addition to salads and other dishes.
Radishes
Radishes are root vegetables that can help loosen the soil and improve drainage. When grown alongside arugula, radishes can also help to repel pests, such as root maggots, while providing a source of shade for arugula plants.
Spinach
Spinach is another leafy green vegetable that can be a good companion plant for arugula. When grown alongside arugula, spinach can help provide shade and support for arugula plants, regulate soil moisture levels, and improve soil health.
Conclusion
Companion planting is a simple and effective way to promote a healthy and sustainable garden. By growing certain plants alongside arugula, such as basil, beans, carrots, chives, cilantro, dill, lettuce, nasturtiums, radishes, and spinach, you can help to protect it from pests and diseases, promote healthy growth, and enhance its flavor.
Whether a novice or an experienced gardener, adding companion plants can provide various benefits, including increased yields, improved soil health, and a more diverse and beautiful garden. So why not try growing some of these companion plants alongside your arugula and see the results for yourself?
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