Having companion plants for eggplants can be a great way to maximize the growth potential of this vegetable. Not only can companion plants provide additional nutrients and pest control, but they can also enhance the flavor of the eggplant. By choosing the right companion plants, you can ensure that your eggplants are healthy, flavorful, and abundant. This article will explore the benefits of having companion plants for eggplants. As well as discuss some of the best companion plants for growing eggplants.
The best eggplant companion plants
Planting companion plants for eggplants is beneficial to the health and productivity of the eggplant crop. Companion plants can help repel pests, provide shade, and attract beneficial insects. Interplanting with other vegetables and herbs helps keep the soil fertile and adds diversity to the garden. Some good companion plants for eggplants are tomatoes, marigolds, and potatoes. These are out favorite eggplant companions.
Marigolds
Marigolds are excellent companion plants for eggplants, as they can help protect against pests and diseases. This herb has a strong aroma that helps repel aphids, whiteflies, and other common pests that can damage eggplant plants. Marigolds also draw beneficial insects to the garden, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help to control pests. Additionally, marigolds have been found to help reduce nematode populations in the soil, which can damage eggplant roots. Finally, the bright colors of marigolds can add an attractive visual element to the garden. Therefore, marigolds make a great companion plant for eggplants, helping to create a healthy and vibrant garden.
Lavender
Lavender is a great companion plant for eggplants, as it helps to repel pests that can damage the eggplant crop. The aromatic oils in the lavender act as a natural insect repellent, helping to keep away aphids, whiteflies, and other pests. Additionally, lavender’s fragrant flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees, which help to increase eggplant yields. Lavender also helps to improve the soil quality of the area, by adding nitrogen and other nutrients. The deep purple blooms of lavender also provide a beautiful contrast to the purple-hued eggplants, making it a great addition to any garden.
Oregano
Oregano is an excellent herb for eggplant. It helps to naturally repel common pests such as flea beetles and spider mites, which can be damaging to eggplants. Additionally, oregano has a strong aroma which further deters pests, while providing a delicious flavor when mixed with eggplant dishes. Oregano is easy to grow and is a great low-maintenance companion plant for eggplant. It is also drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for both sunny and shady areas. Oregano can be planted in containers or directly into the garden, and it is an excellent choice for any gardener who is looking for a culinary and pest-repellant companion for their eggplant.
Borage
Borage can be a great companion plant for eggplants, as it helps to deter pests, attract beneficial insects, and provide nitrogen to the soil. Borage is an annual herb with bright, star-shaped blue flowers that make a beautiful addition to any garden. It also produces nectar that attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which are necessary for pollinating the flowers of the eggplant. Additionally, the deep tap root of the borage plant can help to aerate the soil, allowing for better water and nutrient absorption. The leaves of borage are edible and can be used as a salad green. Borage is a great companion plant for eggplants, providing numerous benefits for the garden.
Peas
Peas are an excellent choice for eggplant. They provide shade to the eggplant, protecting it from the hot summer sun, while also helping to retain moisture in the soil. Peas also fix nitrogen in the soil, providing additional nutrients to the eggplant. Additionally, peas limit the activity of certain pests that may feed on the eggplant, creating a more hospitable environment for the eggplant to grow. Lastly, the presence of the peas can act as a trap crop, attracting pests away from the eggplant. All of these benefits make peas an ideal companion plant for eggplant.
Spinach
Spinach is an excellent companion plant for eggplant. It helps to keep insects away from the eggplant and also serves as a natural mulch that helps to retain moisture in the soil. Spinach can also provide shade for the eggplant, helping to protect it from too much sun. Its shallow roots also make it a great choice for soil aeration, allowing oxygen to reach the eggplant’s roots. Additionally, the nutrients that spinach provides can also benefit the eggplant, helping it to grow healthy and strong. Overall, spinach is an excellent companion plant for eggplant and should be part of any garden plan.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are an excellent companion plant for eggplants. Additionally, they are known to repel certain pests that can affect eggplants, such as whiteflies and aphids. They also help keep the soil moist, which is beneficial for eggplants. Tomatoes also provide nutrients to the soil which can help eggplants grow better. Finally, tomatoes provide shade that can keep eggplants from getting too much direct sunlight. All in all, tomatoes make an excellent companion plant for eggplants.
Potatoes
Potatoes make an excellent companion plant for eggplants. They help to repel certain pests and diseases that can affect eggplants. The potato foliage also helps to shade the eggplant fruits and foliage from direct sunlight, which can be damaging. Potatoes, when planted near eggplants, also help to increase the soil’s fertility and reduce soil compaction, making it easier for the roots of the eggplant to spread. Finally, the potato foliage helps to trap and hold moisture, helping the eggplant to thrive in hot and dry climates. All in all, potatoes are an excellent companion plant for eggplants, helping to keep them healthy and productive.