Can You Plant Broccoli, Lavender, and Nasturtiums Together?

Companion planting is a popular gardening strategy that involves growing different plants together to enhance growth, deter pests, and improve yields. Many gardeners wonder if broccoli, lavender, and nasturtiums can be planted together. In this article, you’ll discover the compatibility of these plants, their growing requirements, and best practices for planting them together.

Compatibility Analysis

Yes, you can plant broccoli, lavender, and nasturtiums together, but with some considerations. These plants can complement each other when their specific needs are met. Broccoli benefits from nasturtiums’ pest-repelling properties, while lavender’s aromatic scent can deter insects. However, their different growth requirements must be carefully managed.

• Growth Requirements: Broccoli prefers cooler temperatures and moist soil, while lavender thrives in well-drained, drier conditions. Nasturtiums are adaptable but prefer full sun and moderate water.
• Pest Control: Nasturtiums attract aphids away from broccoli, acting as a trap crop. Lavender’s scent repels moths and other pests.
• Nutrient Needs: Broccoli is a heavy feeder, requiring rich soil, whereas lavender prefers less fertile conditions.
• Spacing: Adequate spacing is crucial to ensure each plant receives enough sunlight and air circulation.

Growing Requirements Comparison Table

Benefits of Planting Together

Planting broccoli, lavender, and nasturtiums together offers several benefits:

• Pest Repellent Properties: Nasturtiums attract aphids away from broccoli, and lavender deters moths and beetles.
• Improved Growth: Nasturtiums can enhance the flavor and growth of broccoli by repelling pests.
• Space Efficiency: Lavender and nasturtiums can fill in gaps around broccoli, maximizing garden space.
• Soil Health: Nasturtiums can fix nitrogen, improving soil fertility.
• Pollinator Attraction: Lavender and nasturtiums attract bees and beneficial insects, aiding pollination.

Potential Challenges

While these plants can be grown together, some challenges may arise:

• Competition for Resources: Broccoli’s nutrient needs might overshadow lavender’s preference for poorer soil.
• Different Watering Needs: Lavender requires less water than broccoli, necessitating careful watering management.
• Disease Susceptibility: Broccoli is prone to fungal diseases, which can be exacerbated by overwatering.
• Harvesting Considerations: Broccoli’s large leaves may overshadow smaller plants like lavender.
• Solutions: Use raised beds or containers to control soil conditions and water needs. Plant nasturtiums on the borders to act as a pest barrier.

Planting Tips & Best Practices

• Optimal Spacing: Plant broccoli 18-24 inches apart, with lavender and nasturtiums filling in spaces.
• When to Plant: Start broccoli in early spring or fall; plant lavender and nasturtiums after the last frost.
• Container vs. Garden Bed: Use containers for lavender to control soil drainage.
• Soil Preparation: Amend soil with compost for broccoli; ensure good drainage for lavender.
• Companion Plants: Consider adding marigolds or dill, which also benefit broccoli and deter pests.

FAQ Section

1. Can you plant broccoli and lavender in the same pot?

   • It’s not ideal due to different soil and water needs. Use separate pots or raised beds.

2. How far apart should these plants be planted?

   • Broccoli should be 18-24 inches apart, lavender 12-18 inches, and nasturtiums 10-12 inches.

3. Do broccoli and nasturtiums need the same amount of water?

   • They both prefer moderate watering, but avoid overwatering to prevent disease.

4. What should not be planted with broccoli, lavender, and nasturtiums?

   • Avoid planting broccoli with strawberries or tomatoes, which compete for nutrients.

5. Will lavender affect the taste of broccoli?

   • No, lavender’s presence won’t alter broccoli’s taste but will help repel pests.

6. When is the best time to plant these together?

   • Plant after the last frost, ensuring cooler temperatures for broccoli.

By understanding their compatibility and growing requirements, you can successfully plant broccoli, lavender, and nasturtiums together, creating a thriving and harmonious garden.