Join our gardening family to receive the latest tips. JOIN ON SUBSTACK
Companion planting is one of the simplest ways to create a healthier, more productive vegetable garden. After more than 30 years of growing vegetables in raised beds, mounded rows, and containers, I’ve found that certain plant combinations consistently improve growth, reduce pest pressure, and attract beneficial insects. Good companion plants can: While companion planting is…
Companion planting sounds simple—pair the right plants and everything grows better. In containers, though, the rules are different. Space is limited. Roots compete faster. Water and nutrients fluctuate more quickly. I’ve been growing vegetables in containers for decades in Sonoma Valley. Here’s the truth: 👉 Most traditional companion planting advice doesn’t translate directly to containers….
What Are Polycultures in the Garden? A polyculture is a planting system where multiple crop species grow together in the same space, mimicking the diversity found in natural ecosystems. Unlike monocultures, which grow a single crop in large blocks, polycultures combine complementary plants—vegetables, herbs, and flowers—to create healthier, more resilient gardens. Polycultures take advantage of…
Polycultures and companion planting are at the heart of regenerative gardening. Rather than growing a single crop in isolation, these practices mimic natural ecosystems—combining multiple plant species to improve soil health, increase biodiversity, reduce pests, and maximize yields. Over 30 years of gardening experience has shown me that careful planning and observation can turn even…
Companion planting can be a game-changer for home gardeners growing watermelons. By choosing the right neighbors in your garden bed, you’ll improve pollination, suppress weeds, deter pests, and even enrich the soil. Here’s a guide to the best—and worst—companions for your watermelon patch, tailored for organic, low-input gardens like those featured on HarvestToTable.com. Why Companion…
Pumpkins thrive when they have the right neighbors! Companion planting is a natural way to help pumpkins grow strong, reduce pests, and even improve yields. In this post, I’ll share my favorite companion plants for pumpkins and a few combinations to avoid. After growing pumpkins for more than 20 years in both garden beds and…
Subscribe today to get our weekly recipe newsletter! You don’t want to miss out!
