Why Do Plants Need Companions? Plants need friends just like we do. Perhaps this is why companion planting has so many benefits. By selecting the right companions, you will increase your chances of higher yields, shelter delicate plants from harsh weather, increase the population of beneficial insects and ultimately manage your harmful pest population. What Is Companion Planting? Companion planting is a type of garden planning that takes into account both the positive and negative effects plants might have on each other when planted side by side. For instance, plants like peas and beans fix nitrogen in the soil. This...
Gardening for birds is another way to build biodiversity in garden spaces. Like pollinators and other insects, wild birds are under pressure due to habitat loss, pollution, and ever expanding human settlement. By including certain plants and building certain habitats, gardeners can ease this pressure, and even benefit from the presence of some bird species.
Prior to the potato’s arrival from the New World, turnip was the root-crop of choice for cool, wet soils, so many northern European cultures have significant relationships with this vegetable. It says a lot about turnips.
These two culinary herbs are very closely related, with flavours that are almost indistinguishable. They represent two of about 20 species of Oregano, all members of the mint family, Lamiaceae. They offer a good opportunity to learn more about marjoram and oregano.
In many cases pre-packaged soil from the garden centre may serve its purpose when filling containers or raised beds. It is usually manufactured in massive amounts by mixing various raw ingredients before bagging. Here is our container soil recipe.