Companion planting is an age-old gardening technique that pairs plants to enhance growth, deter pests, and attract beneficial insects. In Tasmanian gardens, this practice can be especially effective, considering our unique climate and flora. One of the most rewarding aspects of companion planting is its ability to attract pollinators, essential for a healthy and productive garden.
Why Pollinators Matter
Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and other insects, play a crucial role in the garden ecosystem. They transfer pollen from one flower to another, facilitating the fertilisation process that allows plants to produce fruits and seeds. By attracting pollinators, gardeners can boost their crop yields and ensure a thriving garden.
Top Companion Plants for Pollinators
Lavender grosso (Lavandula x intermedia 'Grosso') is renowned for its fragrant flowers and ability to attract bees and butterflies. Planting Lavender grosso near vegetables and fruit trees can improve pollination and deter pests with its strong scent. Best pairings include tomatoes, cabbage, and fruit trees.
Marigolds are excellent for repelling nematodes and other pests. Their bright flowers attract bees, which help pollinate nearby plants. Marigolds can be raised by seed for planting once the risk of frost has passed. When planted with tomatoes, marigolds can deter harmful insects such as whitefly and nematodes whilst promoting healthier and more productive tomato plants. Pair marigolds with tomatoes, cabbage and beans
Borage is a magnet for bees and other pollinators. Its blue, star-shaped flowers add beauty to the garden, and its leaves can improve soil health. Borage is beneficial in both the vegetable garden and around fruit trees, enhancing pollination and deterring pests. Plant borage near strawberries, tomatoes, and fruit trees. Please beware that Borage can self seed within the garden
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) attracts bees and predatory insects that feed on garden pests. It also serves as a ground cover, helping to suppress weeds. Pair thyme with cabbage, strawberries, and tomatoes.
Rosemary attracts bees and other pollinators with its small, fragrant flowers. Consider a low spreading variety of Rosemary like Blue Lagoon, this variety serves as an excellent ground cover, especially under fruit trees, helping to enhance pollination and suppress weeds. Plant rosemary under fruit trees like apples, pears, and stone fruits.
Sunflowers attract a wide range of pollinators and provide a support structure for climbing plants. They also produce seeds that can be harvested. Sunflowers can be raised by seed for planting once the risk of frost has passed. Plant sunflowers near cucumbers, pumpkins, and beans.
Calendula also known as pot marigold, is another excellent plant for attracting pollinators. Its bright, cheerful flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects. Calendula can also help to repel pests and improve soil health. Plant calendula throughout your garden to support pollinators and enhance overall garden health.
Nasturtiums are easy to grow and can be direct sown once the risk of frost has passed. They attract pollinators like bees and butterflies and repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies. Nasturtiums also serve as a trap crop, luring pests away from other plants. Plant nasturtiums near tomatoes, cucumbers, and fruit trees.
Conclusion
Companion planting is an effective way to create a balanced and productive garden in Tasmania. By pairing these plants together, you can improve pollination, deter pests, and promote healthy growth. Experiment with different combinations to see what works best for your garden, and enjoy the benefits of a thriving, sustainable garden ecosystem.
Happy Gardening!