Flowers That Grow Well With Beets: A Guide To Companion Planting

Flowers That Grow Well With Beets: A Guide to Companion Planting

Beets are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that is easy to grow. They are also a great candidate for companion planting, which is the practice of planting different types of plants together to benefit each other.

There are many flowers that grow well with beets. Some of the most popular companions include:

• Marigolds: Marigolds are a great companion for beets because they help to repel pests. They also have a strong scent that can mask the smell of beets, which can deter rabbits and other animals from eating them.
• Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums are another good choice for companion planting with beets. They help to deter pests such as aphids and cabbageworms. They also attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which help to control pests.
• Chives: Chives are a good companion for beets because they help to improve the flavor of the beets. They also help to deter pests such as carrot flies and root maggots.
• Lettuce: Lettuce is a good companion for beets because it helps to shade the beet roots, which can help to prevent them from becoming too hot and developing a bitter taste.
• Onions: Onions are a good companion for beets because they help to repel pests such as aphids and carrot flies. They also help to improve the flavor of the beets.

In addition to these flowers, there are a number of other plants that can be grown as companions for beets. Some of these include:

• Carrots: Carrots and beets can be planted together because they have different root systems. The carrots will grow deep in the soil, while the beets will grow closer to the surface. This helps to prevent the roots from competing for resources.
• Cucumbers: Cucumbers and beets can be planted together because they have similar water and nutrient requirements. They also both benefit from being shaded by taller plants.
• Peas: Peas and beets can be planted together because they both benefit from nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These bacteria live in the roots of peas and help to convert nitrogen from the air into a form that plants can use.
• Spinach: Spinach and beets can be planted together because they have similar growing requirements. They both prefer cool, moist soil and full sun.

When companion planting beets, it is important to consider the size and growth habit of the plants you are choosing. For example, you wouldn't want to plant a tall plant like sunflowers next to a short plant like beets, because the sunflowers would shade out the beets.

It is also important to consider the spacing requirements of the plants you are choosing. Some plants, such as marigolds, need more space than others, such as chives.

By following these tips, you can create a thriving garden where beets and their companion plants can grow together in harmony.

FAQ of flowers to plant with beets

Question 1: What are the best flowers to plant with beets?

Answer: Some of the best flowers to plant with beets include:

• Marigolds: Marigolds have a strong scent that helps to repel pests, such as aphids and nematodes. They also help to improve the soil quality.
• Nasturtium: Nasturtium is another flower that has a strong scent that deters pests. It also attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
• Chamomile: Chamomile is a calming herb that can help to improve the flavor of beets. It also helps to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs.
• Thyme: Thyme is a fragrant herb that can help to repel pests and improve the flavor of beets. It also helps to attract beneficial insects, such as hoverflies.
• Lavender: Lavender is a beautiful flower that has a calming scent. It can help to deter pests and improve the flavor of beets.

Question 2: How do flowers benefit beets?

Answer: Flowers can benefit beets in a number of ways, including:

• Repellent: Flowers with strong scents can help to repel pests that can damage beets, such as aphids, nematodes, and flea beetles.
• Improved soil quality: Flowers can help to improve the soil quality by adding nutrients and organic matter. This can help to improve the growth and flavor of beets.
• Attraction of pollinators: Flowers can attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. These pollinators help to pollinate beets, which can lead to a better harvest.

Question 3: What are some tips for planting flowers with beets?

Answer: Here are some tips for planting flowers with beets:

• Choose the right flowers: When choosing flowers to plant with beets, it is important to choose flowers that have similar growing requirements. For example, both beets and marigolds prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
• Plant the flowers at the right time: It is important to plant the flowers at the right time of year. For example, marigolds should be planted in the spring or fall, while chamomile can be planted in the spring, summer, or fall.
• Space the plants properly: It is important to space the plants properly to allow for good air circulation and prevent the spread of diseases. For example, marigolds should be spaced about 12 inches apart, while chamomile should be spaced about 18 inches apart.
• Water the plants regularly: It is important to water the plants regularly, especially during hot weather.

Question 4: What are some common mistakes to avoid when planting flowers with beets?

Answer: Here are some common mistakes to avoid when planting flowers with beets:

• Planting the flowers too close together: Planting the flowers too close together can prevent good air circulation and increase the risk of disease.
• Not watering the plants regularly: Not watering the plants regularly can stress the plants and make them more susceptible to pests and diseases.
• Planting the flowers in the wrong location: Planting the flowers in the wrong location can prevent them from getting enough sunlight or can expose them to pests and diseases.

Question 5: What are some additional benefits of planting flowers with beets?

Answer: In addition to the benefits mentioned above, planting flowers with beets can also:

• Add color and interest to your garden: Flowers can add color and interest to your garden, making it more attractive and inviting.
• Attract beneficial insects: Flowers can attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and hoverflies. These insects help to control pests, which can help to protect your beets.
• Improve the overall health of your garden: Planting flowers with beets can help to improve the overall health of your garden by attracting beneficial insects, improving the soil quality, and providing a habitat for wildlife.

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