Can You Plant Cabbage, Cherries, and Alyssum Together?

Companion planting is a beloved technique among gardeners, offering the potential for healthier plants and more productive gardens. When considering planting cabbage, cherries, and alyssum together, it’s essential to understand their compatibility and how they can benefit from each other. In this article, you’ll learn about the compatibility of these plants, their growing requirements, and practical tips for successful planting.

Compatibility Analysis

The short answer is: Yes, you can plant cabbage, cherries, and alyssum together, but with some considerations. While these plants have different growth habits and needs, they can co-exist harmoniously with proper planning.

Why They Work Together

• Growth Requirements: Cabbage and alyssum share similar growth conditions, thriving in cooler temperatures, while cherries prefer a sunny location. By strategically placing these plants, you can optimize their growing conditions.
• Pest Control: Alyssum is known for attracting beneficial insects like hoverflies that prey on common cabbage pests such as aphids. This natural pest control can protect your cabbage plants.
• Nutrient Needs: Cabbage is a heavy feeder, requiring nutrient-rich soil, while cherries and alyssum have moderate nutrient needs. Ensuring soil fertility through composting can meet all their needs.
• Spacing: Cabbage and alyssum can be planted closer together, while cherries need more space due to their larger size and root system.

Growing Requirements Comparison Table

Benefits of Planting Together

• Pest Repellent Properties: Alyssum attracts beneficial insects, reducing pest pressure on cabbage.
• Improved Growth: The diverse root systems enhance soil structure, promoting better growth.
• Space Efficiency: Alyssum’s low growth habit allows it to fill in spaces between cabbage and cherry trees.
• Soil Health: The diverse plantings encourage beneficial microbial activity, improving soil health.
• Pollinator Attraction: Alyssum’s flowers attract pollinators, benefiting cherry trees during bloom.

Potential Challenges

• Resource Competition: Cabbage and cherries may compete for nutrients; regular fertilization can mitigate this.
• Watering Needs: While all plants need moderate watering, cherries require deeper watering, which can be managed with drip irrigation.
• Disease Susceptibility: Cabbage is prone to clubroot, which can be controlled by crop rotation and soil pH management.
• Harvesting Considerations: Ensure enough space for easy access to cabbage and cherries during harvest.

Planting Tips & Best Practices

• Optimal Spacing: Maintain adequate spacing—cabbage 12-18 inches apart, cherries 15-25 feet apart, and alyssum 6-12 inches apart.
• When to Plant: Plant cabbage and alyssum in early spring, while cherries are best planted in late winter or early spring.
• Container vs. Garden Bed: Alyssum and cabbage can be grown in containers; cherries require garden beds due to their size.
• Soil Preparation: Incorporate compost to improve soil fertility and structure.
• Companion Plants: Consider adding marigolds, which deter nematodes and enhance the garden’s pest control.

FAQ Section

1. Can you plant cabbage and alyssum in the same pot?

   • Yes, they can share a pot if it’s large enough to accommodate their root systems.

2. How far apart should cabbage and cherry trees be planted?

   • Maintain at least 15 feet between cabbage plants and cherry trees to prevent shading and root competition.

3. Do cabbage and alyssum need the same amount of water?

   • Both require moderate watering, but alyssum can tolerate slightly drier conditions.

4. What should not be planted with cabbage, cherries, and alyssum?

   • Avoid planting cabbage near strawberries, and cherries near black walnut trees.

5. Will cabbage affect the taste of cherries?

   • No, cabbage will not affect the taste of cherries.

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

   • Early spring is ideal for cabbage and alyssum, with cherries planted in late winter or early spring.

By understanding these plants’ needs and benefits, you can create a thriving garden that maximizes space and productivity. Happy gardening!