Companion Planting
The intentional
planting of two or more different plant species nearby or next to one
another to either deter insects or increase yield is known as companion
planting. Pests may detest the smell of a flower and will turn away
from a garden because of this scent; another pest may be attracted by a
plant for egg-laying, thus being deterred from a tastier plant. Other
plants may use each other for their nutritional needs or structural
support, for example squash, beans and corn. It is also possible for
certain plants to retard each other’s growth if planted near each
other.
This method of planting, while it does require some research and
planning, is an important technique for organic growers.
For
a list of common plants, their companions and retardants