If you’re looking to grow strawberries in your garden, companion planting is an essential technique that can help you get the most out of your crop. Companion planting involves planting different species of plants together in a way that benefits both plants. By planting certain plants alongside your strawberries, you can help to deter pests, improve soil quality, and increase yields.
In this article, we’ll explore the basics of companion planting with strawberries, including the benefits of this technique and the best companion plants to use. We’ll also cover some common pests and diseases that can affect companion planted crops, as well as tips for harvesting and managing your strawberries. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will help you get the most out of your strawberry crop.
Key Takeaways
- Companion planting with strawberries can help to deter pests, improve soil quality, and increase yields.
- By creating a diverse and balanced ecosystem in your garden, you can create a thriving garden that is both beautiful and productive.
- The best companion plants for strawberries include plants that repel pests, fix nitrogen, or add organic matter to the soil.
This post is all about companion planting strawberries.
Table of Contents
Basics of Companion Planting
Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together to achieve mutual benefits. When it comes to strawberries, companion planting can be used to improve soil quality, increase yield, and repel pests.
One of the main advantages of companion planting is that it can help reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. For example, planting chives or garlic near your strawberries can help repel aphids and other pests that can damage the plants. Similarly, planting marigolds near your strawberries can help repel nematodes and other soil-borne pests.
Another benefit of companion planting is that it can help improve soil quality. For example, planting clover or other nitrogen-fixing plants near your strawberries can help improve soil fertility by adding nitrogen to the soil. Similarly, planting beans or other legumes near your strawberries can help fix nitrogen in the soil and improve soil quality.
When it comes to companion planting, it’s important to choose plants that have similar growing requirements. For example, strawberries prefer well-drained soil and full sun, so it’s important to choose companion plants that have similar growing requirements. Additionally, it’s important to choose plants that are not competitive with your strawberries for resources such as water and nutrients.
By using companion planting techniques, you can create a healthy and productive garden that is both environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing.
Creating a Strawberry Garden: Best Companion Plants for Strawberries
When it comes to companion planting, strawberries are one of the most versatile crops out there. They can be paired with a variety of plants that can help improve their growth and flavor, while also keeping pests and diseases at bay. In this section, we will explore some of the best companion plants for strawberries.
Herbs and Flowers
Herbs and flowers can be great companion plants for strawberries as they can attract beneficial insects, repel pests, and improve soil health. Some of the best herbs and flowers to plant alongside strawberries include:
Strawberries and Mint Companion Planting
Mint makes for an excellent strawberry companion. Since mint is an aggressive grower, it’s not recommended to plant in the same bed as your strawberry plants. Instead use mint as a border or cover crop planted nearby. Otherwise mint will just take over your strawberry bed!
The benefit of mint for strawberry plants is that it has a strong smell. The smell repels lygus bugs, aphids, and mites.
DIll and Strawberries Companion Planting
Dill has so many benefits for your strawberry garden. When it gets its small, delicate yellow flowers, they attract all kinds of beneficial insects such as ladybugs, praying mantis, and wasps.
Companion Planting Strawberries and Chives
Chives are part of the allium family. Members of the allium family are known for helping almost every plant in the garden and this holds true for strawberries as well. Keep them at least 12 inches away from your strawberry plants when you’re planting. They’ll deter pests and help prevent gray mold from taking over your plants.
Borage and Strawberries Companion Planting
Borage is an excellent companion plant for strawberries as it attracts bees and other pollinators, which can help increase fruit production. It also repels harmful insects and can improve soil fertility.
Chamomile and Strawberries Companion Planting
Chamomile is another great companion plant for strawberries as it can improve soil health and attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps, which can help control pests.
Marigolds and Strawberries Companion Planting
Marigolds are known for their ability to repel harmful insects like nematodes and aphids. They also add color to your garden and can improve soil health.
Thyme and Strawberries Companion Planting
These two plants are a good combination. Thyme gets pretty little flowers which attract syrphid flies and other beneficial insects. Syrphid flies love to eat aphids which are a pest to strawberry plants.
Vegetables
Vegetables can also be great companion plants for strawberries as they can help improve soil health and keep pests and diseases at bay. Some of the best vegetables to plant alongside strawberries include:
Asparagus and Strawberry Companion Planting
These two plants are great companions since they complement each other. They have different root structures (strawberries have shallow roots while asparagus have deeper roots) grow in different seasons, love the sun, and well-draining soil. Strawberry plants are unfortunately short lived. They only last for 3 to 5 years. Once asparagus becomes established, they last for 20 to 30 years. It takes 3 years for them to become established.
Carrots and Strawberries Companion Planting
Carrots and strawberries do really well together. They like the same growing conditions – loose, well-draining soil. As mentioned previously, strawberries have a shallow root system. Carrots have deep tap roots so they don’t interfere with each other.
Squash and Strawberries Companion Planting
There are mixed views about planting squash and strawberries together. In my opinion, I can see squash over taking the strawberries if it’s a vine variety. It would probably be best to plant a bush variety to avoid that. Squash can definitely shield strawberries from the intense sun and heat.
Beets and Strawberries Companion Planting
These two crops can definitely complement one another. As previously discussed, strawberries have a shallow root system. Beets have a larger tap root and don’t spread out. They are concentrated in one area. Because of their roots, beets help to aerate the soil.
Garlic and Strawberries Companion Planting
Garlic is another good companion. These two types of crops don’t compete for nutrients or water. Neither one of them likes to be inundated with water and need well draining soil. Garlic is great for repelling strawberry spider mites and other pests. It may even help deter rodents and deer, which all gardeners know can really damage plants. Plus garlic can help maximize strawberry crop yields.
Lettuce and Strawberries Companion Planting
Lettuce is a great companion plant for strawberries as it can help keep the soil moist and cool, which is ideal for strawberries. It also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pests.
Companion Planting Onions and Strawberries
Onions are known for their ability to repel harmful insects like aphids and thrips. They also add flavor to your garden and can improve soil health.
Spinach and Strawberries Companion Planting
Spinach is another great companion plant for strawberries as it can help keep the soil moist and cool. It also attracts beneficial insects like parasitic wasps, which can help control pests.
Fruit Bearing Plants
Fruit bearing plants can be great companion plants for strawberries as they can attract beneficial insects and improve soil health. Some of the best fruit bearing plants to plant alongside strawberries include:
Companion Planting Blueberries Strawberries
Blueberries are a great companion plant for strawberries as they both prefer acidic soil. Blueberries can also attract beneficial insects like bees and parasitic wasps, which can help control pests.
Raspberries and Strawberries Companion Planting
Raspberries are another great companion plant for strawberries as they can attract beneficial insects and improve soil health. They also add color to your garden and can be harvested around the same time as strawberries.
Tomatoes and Strawberries Companion Planting
Tomatoes are known for their ability to repel harmful insects like aphids and whiteflies. They also add flavor to your garden and can improve soil health. However, keep in mind that tomatoes and strawberries have similar soil requirements, so make sure to plant them in separate areas of your garden.
By planting these companion plants alongside your strawberries, you can help improve their growth and flavor, while also keeping pests and diseases at bay.
Plants to Avoid Near Strawberries
When it comes to companion planting strawberries, it’s important to know which plants to avoid. Certain plants can attract pests or diseases that can harm your strawberry plants. Here are some plants to avoid near strawberries.
| Plant | Reasons to Avoid |
| Tomatoes and strawberry companion planting | Tomatoes are prone to verticillium wilt, a fungus that can spread to strawberries. |
| Eggplant and strawberries companion planting | Eggplants are also prone to verticillium wilt. |
| Potatoes and strawberry companion plants | Potatoes have the same issue as eggplants and tomatoes—they can get verticillium wilt. |
| Peppers and strawberries companion plants | Peppers can attract tarnished plant bugs, which can damage strawberry plants. |
| Brassicas and strawberries companion plants | Brassicas, such as broccoli and cauliflower, can attract cabbage worms, which can also damage strawberry plants. |
| Kale and Strawberries Companion Planting | Cruciferous vegetables like kale don’t get along with strawberries. Avoid planting kale and strawberries together. They stunt each other’s growth. Both of these plants attract slugs. Putting them together would probably attract so many slugs. You’d basically be planting them just to feed these little pests. |
| Strawberries and Corn Companion Planting | Although I could not really find any sources saying not to plant these two together, I didn’t find information that they’d make good companions. They’re growing conditions don’t seem to mesh well. Corn takes up a lot of room and is a heavy feeder. It also needs lots of water to grow properly. With that being said, these two plants would definitely compete for nutrients and the water will be too much for strawberries. |
| Companion Planting Cucumbers and Strawberries | Cucumbers need a lot of space. They love to spread and sprawl out, although this may not be a problem if you’re invested in vertical gardening. Because of how cucumbers grow, they’re not good companions to strawberries. They block out access to the sun and therefore compete. |
Addition Notes on Plants to Avoid
It’s important to note that these plants may not always cause problems for your strawberries. However, if you want to minimize the risk of pests and diseases, it’s best to avoid planting them near your strawberries.
In addition to these plants, it’s also important to avoid planting strawberries near areas where solanaceous crops, such as peppers and tomatoes, have been grown in the past. These crops can leave behind soil-borne diseases that can harm your strawberries.
By avoiding these plants and being mindful of where you plant your strawberries, you can help ensure that your strawberry plants stay healthy and productive.
Designing Your Strawberry Companion Planting Layout
When designing your strawberry garden layout, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you get the most out of your plants.
First, consider the size and spacing of your plants. Some companion plants, such as lettuce and spinach, are smaller and can be planted closer to your strawberries. Others, like alliums and borage, require more space and should be planted further away.
Next, think about the needs of your plants. Strawberries prefer well-draining soil and thrive in full sun, while some companion plants, like chives and onions, prefer partial shade. Consider the water and nutrient needs of each plant and group them accordingly.
You may also want to consider the benefits of companion planting, such as pest control and improved soil health. For example, planting marigolds or nasturtiums alongside your strawberries can help repel pests, while planting legumes like beans or peas can add nitrogen to the soil.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different companion planting combinations to find what works best for your garden. Keep track of what you plant and where, and make note of any successes or failures to guide your future planting decisions.
By taking these factors into account, you can design a strawberry companion planting layout that is both aesthetically pleasing and beneficial for your plants.
Care and Maintenance for Companion Planted Strawberries
When it comes to companion planting strawberries, proper care and maintenance are essential for a successful harvest. Here are some tips to help you keep your strawberry plants healthy and productive:
Watering
Strawberries need consistent moisture to thrive, so make sure to water them regularly. Aim to give your plants about an inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
Fertilizing
Companion planting can help reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers, but it’s still important to give your strawberries the nutrients they need. Consider using organic fertilizers like compost or fish emulsion, which provide a slow-release source of nutrients. Apply fertilizer in early spring and again after the first harvest.
Mulching
Mulching is an important part of caring for companion planted strawberries. A layer of organic mulch like straw or leaves can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of mulch about 2 to 3 inches deep around your plants, taking care not to cover the crowns.
I prefer to use straw in the garden but also use mulch in other areas. Try different mulches to see what works best for you.
Pest Control
Companion planting can help deter pests, but it’s still important to keep an eye out for signs of infestation. Check your plants regularly for signs of damage, and take action if you spot any pests. Consider using natural pest control methods like handpicking, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
Disease Prevention
Strawberries are prone to a number of diseases, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them. Consider planting disease-resistant varieties, and avoid planting strawberries in the same spot year after year. Keep your plants well-spaced to promote good air circulation, and remove any diseased or damaged plants promptly.
By following these care and maintenance tips, you can help ensure a healthy and productive harvest of companion planted strawberries.
Common Pests and Diseases in Companion Planting
When it comes to companion planting strawberries, it’s important to be aware of the common pests and diseases that can affect both the strawberries and their companion plants. Here are some of the most common issues to look out for:
Pests
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of your plants, causing them to wilt and die. They are attracted to plants with soft, tender growth, so keep an eye on new shoots and leaves. To deter aphids, try planting companion plants such as chives, garlic, or mint, which have strong odors that repel them. Ladybugs and lacewings are also natural predators of aphids and can be attracted to your garden by planting flowers such as marigolds or yarrow.
- Slugs and Snails: These slimy creatures can munch their way through your strawberries and their companion plants, leaving behind holes and slime trails. To deter them, try planting herbs such as thyme or sage, which have a rough texture that they don’t like to crawl over. You can also create barriers around your plants using copper tape or crushed eggshells.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to your plants by sucking the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. They thrive in hot, dry conditions, so make sure to keep your plants well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
Diseases
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can affect both strawberries and their companion plants, causing a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves and stems. It thrives in humid conditions, so make sure to space your plants out to allow for good air circulation. You can also try spraying your plants with a solution of milk and water, which has been shown to be effective at controlling powdery mildew.
- Verticillium Wilt: This soil-borne disease can affect a wide range of plants, including strawberries and their companion plants. It causes the leaves to wilt and turn yellow, and can eventually kill the plant. To prevent verticillium wilt, make sure to rotate your crops every year and avoid planting strawberries in soil that has previously been used to grow tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants.
By being aware of these common pests and diseases, you can take steps to prevent them from affecting your companion planting strawberries. Remember to keep your plants healthy and well-maintained, and to use natural methods of pest and disease control whenever possible.
Harvesting and Managing Companion Planted Crops
When it comes to harvesting and managing companion planted crops, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a successful harvest. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your strawberry companion plants:
Harvesting
When it comes to harvesting your strawberries and their companion plants, it’s important to keep in mind that each plant may have different harvest times. For example, asparagus is typically harvested in the spring, while strawberries are harvested in late spring and into the summer.
To make things easier, keep a record of when each plant is expected to be ready for harvest. This will help you plan ahead and avoid missing out on any of your crops.
Managing
Managing your companion planted crops involves keeping them healthy and free from pests and diseases. One way to do this is to practice crop rotation. This involves planting different crops in the same area each year to prevent soil-borne diseases from building up.
Another way to manage your crops is to use natural pest control methods. For example, marigolds are often planted as a trap crop for nematodes, and onions can help repel pests like aphids.
Conclusion
By following these tips for harvesting and managing your companion planted crops, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest and a healthy garden. Remember to keep track of each plant’s harvest time, practice crop rotation, and use natural pest control methods to keep your crops healthy and thriving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which plants are ideal to grow alongside strawberries in a raised bed?
Strawberries grow well with a variety of plants, including herbs like thyme, chives, and sage, as well as vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and beans. Other good companion plants for strawberries include borage, marigolds, and onions. These plants can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects to the garden.
Are there any plants that should be avoided when planting with strawberries?
Yes, there are some plants that should be avoided when companion planting with strawberries. Plants like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower can attract pests that can damage strawberries. Also, avoid planting strawberries near plants that are susceptible to verticillium wilt, like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.
Can strawberries and asparagus be grown together effectively?
Yes, strawberries and asparagus can be grown together effectively. Asparagus can provide a natural support for strawberries, and the two plants have similar soil and water requirements. One effective way to grow these plants together is to plant asparagus first, at least a foot below the surface, and then plant the strawberry crowns 4-6 inches deep in the same rows.
What are the benefits of planting nasturtiums with strawberries?
Nasturtiums are a great companion plant for strawberries because they can attract beneficial insects like bees and hoverflies to the garden. They also have a strong scent that can help deter pests like aphids and cucumber beetles. Plant nasturtiums around the edge of your strawberry patch to create a natural barrier.
How does companion planting affect strawberry growth in pots?
Companion planting can be a great way to improve the growth and health of strawberries grown in pots. Plants like chives, thyme, and marigolds can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects to the garden. When planting strawberries in pots, make sure to choose companion plants that have similar soil and water requirements.
What are some permaculture practices for companion planting with strawberries?
Permaculture practices for companion planting with strawberries include using natural pest control methods like crop rotation, intercropping, and mulching. You can also create a diverse garden ecosystem by planting a variety of plants that attract beneficial insects and other wildlife to the garden. Finally, make sure to use organic and sustainable gardening practices to promote soil health and biodiversity.
