Geranium Companion Plants: Enhancing Your Garden

The Importance of Companion Plants

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefit. It has been used for centuries to improve soil health, deter pests, and increase yields. One popular plant that can benefit from companion planting is the geranium.

Geraniums come in a variety of colors and are known for their hardiness and long bloom time. They are great for adding color to your garden and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. But did you know that certain plants can enhance the growth and health of your geraniums? In this article, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for geraniums.

Best Companion Plants for Geraniums

Basil

Basil is a fragrant herb that can repel pests like mosquitoes and flies. It also attracts bees and other beneficial insects that can pollinate your geraniums. Plant basil near your geraniums to deter pests and promote pollination.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another great choice for companion planting with geraniums. They have a strong scent that can repel aphids, whiteflies, and other pests. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pest populations in your garden.

Parsley

Parsley is a biennial herb that can attract predatory insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps. These insects can help control pests in your garden, including aphids and caterpillars. Plant parsley near your geraniums to encourage these beneficial insects to visit your garden.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a great companion plant for geraniums because they act as a trap crop for pests like aphids and whiteflies. These pests are attracted to the bright, showy flowers of the nasturtiums, leaving your geraniums alone. Nasturtiums also add a pop of color to your garden and are edible, with a peppery flavor that can be used in salads and other dishes.

Lavender

Lavender is a fragrant herb that can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. It also has natural pest-repelling properties that can help keep pests away from your geraniums. Plant lavender near your geraniums to promote pollination and deter pests.

Other Tips for Companion Planting with Geraniums

Plant for Diversity

When choosing companion plants for your geraniums, try to select a variety of plants that have different benefits. For example, you might choose one plant that repels pests, one that attracts beneficial insects, and one that adds nutrients to the soil.

Consider Plant Height

When planting companion plants with your geraniums, consider the height of the plants. You don't want to plant a tall plant next to a short one, as this can block sunlight and restrict airflow. Instead, choose plants that are similar in height or plant taller plants at the back of the garden bed.

Rotate Your Plants

To avoid pests and diseases, it's important to rotate your plants each season. This means planting different crops in the same space each year to prevent soil-borne diseases from building up. When rotating your plants, consider which companion plants work well with geraniums and plan accordingly.

FAQs

1. Can I plant geraniums with vegetables?

Yes, geraniums can be planted with many vegetables as companion plants. However, some vegetables may prefer different types of companion plants, so it's important to do your research before planting.

2. Can I plant geraniums in full sun?

Yes, geraniums can tolerate full sun, but they also do well in partial shade. If you live in a hot climate, it's best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent sunburn.

3. How often should I water my geraniums?

Geraniums prefer well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Depending on the weather and the type of soil, this could be once or twice a week.

4. Do geraniums attract bees?

Yes, geraniums are attractive to bees and other pollinators. They produce nectar and pollen that bees use as a food source, making them an important plant for supporting bee populations.

5. Can I use geraniums in cooking?

Yes, some species of geraniums, such as Pelargonium graveolens, have a lemony scent and flavor that can be used in cooking and baking. However, not all geraniums are edible, so it's important to do your research before consuming any part of the plant.