Can You Plant Beets, Oranges, and Calendula Together?

Companion planting is a popular practice among gardeners seeking to enhance plant growth and health by strategically pairing plants. This article explores the compatibility of planting beets, oranges, and calendula together. You’ll learn about their compatibility, growing needs, and tips for successful planting.

Compatibility Analysis

Can you plant beets, oranges, and calendula together? The short answer is: Yes, but with considerations. While these plants can be grown in proximity, their differing needs require careful planning.

• Growth Requirements: Beets thrive in cooler climates, while oranges prefer warm, subtropical conditions. Calendula is quite adaptable, tolerating a range of temperatures.
• Pest Control: Calendula acts as a natural pest repellent, attracting beneficial insects that can help protect beets and oranges.
• Nutrient Needs: Beets and calendula have similar soil nutrient requirements, but oranges, being fruit trees, require more nutrients.
• Spacing: Oranges need more space due to their size, while beets and calendula can be planted closer together.

Growing Requirements Comparison Table

Benefits of Planting Together

• Pest Repellent Properties: Calendula attracts pollinators and repels pests, benefiting both beets and oranges.
• Improved Growth: Calendula can enhance soil health, promoting better growth for surrounding plants.
• Space Efficiency: Beets and calendula can be planted under or around orange trees, maximizing garden space.
• Pollinator Attraction: Calendula’s bright flowers attract bees and other pollinators, aiding in the pollination of orange blossoms.

Potential Challenges

• Competition for Resources: Oranges may overshadow smaller plants like beets and calendula, competing for sunlight and nutrients.
• Watering Needs: Oranges require more water than beets and calendula, necessitating careful irrigation management.
• Disease Susceptibility: Beets can be prone to root diseases, which may spread if not managed.
• Practical Solutions: Use mulching to retain moisture, and ensure adequate spacing to prevent overcrowding.

Planting Tips & Best Practices

• Optimal Spacing: Plant beets and calendula around the base of orange trees, allowing enough space for root expansion.
• Timing: Plant beets and calendula in early spring or fall; oranges should be planted in spring.
• Container vs. Garden Bed: Consider container planting for beets and calendula if space is limited.
• Soil Preparation: Enrich soil with compost to support nutrient needs, especially for oranges.
• Companion Plants: Consider adding marigolds or nasturtiums, which also pair well with these plants.

FAQ Section

1. Can you plant beets and oranges in the same pot?
No, oranges need larger containers due to their size, while beets can thrive in smaller pots.

2. How far apart should beets and calendula be planted?
Beets should be planted 2–4 inches apart, while calendula requires 8–12 inches of spacing.

3. Do beets and oranges need the same amount of water?
No, oranges need more water than beets. Adjust irrigation accordingly.

4. What should not be planted with beets, oranges, and calendula?
Avoid planting fennel near beets, as it can inhibit their growth.

5. Will calendula affect the taste of beets or oranges?
No, calendula does not affect the flavor of beets or oranges.

6. When is the best time to plant these together?
Plant beets and calendula in early spring or fall, and oranges in spring.

By understanding the specific needs and benefits of each plant, you can successfully incorporate beets, oranges, and calendula into your garden, creating a thriving and harmonious planting environment.