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Companion Plants for Late Summer and Fall Crops

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves growing different plants together to maximize their benefits and minimize potential problems. By selecting the right companion plants for your late summer and fall crops, you can create a harmonious and productive garden ecosystem. Here are some excellent companion plants to consider:

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are known for their vibrant colors and strong scent, but they also offer numerous benefits to neighboring plants. Their strong aroma repels many common garden pests, including aphids, nematodes, and whiteflies. Additionally, marigolds attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on harmful pests.

2. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are not only beautiful with their bright, edible flowers, but they also serve as excellent companions for late summer and fall crops. These plants act as a natural trap for aphids, attracting them away from your vegetables. Nasturtiums also release a chemical that repels squash bugs and whiteflies, protecting your crops from infestations.

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3. Borage

Borage is a versatile companion plant that offers multiple benefits. Its attractive blue flowers attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the overall productivity of your garden. Borage also acts as a natural deterrent for tomato hornworms, cabbage worms, and other common garden pests.

4. Chives

Chives are not only a flavorful addition to your culinary creations, but they also make excellent companions for late summer and fall crops. Their strong scent repels aphids, Japanese beetles, and carrot flies. Planting chives near carrots can help deter carrot rust flies, which can damage the roots.

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5. Dill

Dill is a beneficial companion plant for many late summer and fall crops, including cucumbers, lettuce, and cabbage. Its feathery foliage attracts beneficial insects like wasps and hoverflies, which prey on aphids and other pests. Dill also helps improve the flavor of cucumbers when planted nearby.

6. Calendula

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a beautiful companion plant that offers both aesthetic and practical benefits. Its bright orange and yellow flowers add a pop of color to your garden, while also attracting pollinators. Calendula also repels aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms, protecting your crops from damage.

By incorporating these companion plants into your late summer and fall garden, you can create a more balanced and resilient ecosystem. Not only will your crops benefit from natural pest control and improved pollination, but your garden will also be visually appealing with the vibrant colors and textures of these companion plants.

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Keywords: companion, plants, garden, summer, aphids, benefits, repels, excellent, marigolds