Can You Plant Cabbage, Kiwi, and Nasturtiums Together?

Companion planting is a popular technique among gardeners that involves growing different plants together to enhance growth, deter pests, and maximize space. Cabbage, kiwi, and nasturtiums are three distinct plants that gardeners might consider pairing. This article explores whether these plants can be successfully grown together, analyzing their compatibility and offering practical tips for optimal results.

Compatibility Analysis

Yes, you can plant cabbage, kiwi, and nasturtiums together, but with some considerations. These plants have different growth requirements, but they can complement each other in a garden setting. Cabbage, a cool-season vegetable, benefits from the pest-repellent properties of nasturtiums. Nasturtiums can deter cabbage moths and aphids, common pests for cabbage. Meanwhile, kiwi, a perennial vine, can provide partial shade and support for nasturtiums. However, kiwi’s large growth habit requires careful spacing to avoid overshadowing the cabbage.

Key Factors:

• Growth Requirements: Kiwi needs more space and support structures, while cabbage and nasturtiums are lower-growing.
• Pest Control: Nasturtiums act as a natural pest deterrent for cabbage.
• Nutrient Needs: All three plants have different nutrient requirements; kiwi requires rich, well-drained soil, while cabbage needs more nitrogen.
• Spacing: Adequate spacing is crucial to prevent competition for light and nutrients.

Growing Requirements Comparison Table

Benefits of Planting Together

• Pest Repellent Properties: Nasturtiums can deter pests that typically target cabbage, reducing the need for chemical pest control.
• Improved Growth: Kiwi vines can provide partial shade, which helps in hotter climates to protect cabbage from bolting.
• Space Efficiency: Utilizing vertical space with kiwi allows for more efficient use of garden beds.
• Soil Health Benefits: Nasturtiums can improve soil health by fixing nitrogen, benefiting cabbage growth.
• Pollinator Attraction: Nasturtiums attract pollinators, which can enhance the pollination of kiwi flowers.

Potential Challenges

• Resource Competition: Kiwi’s extensive root system can compete with cabbage for nutrients and water.
• Different Watering Needs: Kiwi requires more water than nasturtiums, necessitating careful watering management.
• Disease Susceptibility: Cabbage can be prone to fungal diseases, which could spread if not managed.
• Harvesting Considerations: The sprawling nature of kiwi can make harvesting cabbage more challenging.

Practical Solutions:

• Use drip irrigation to cater to different watering needs.
• Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Train kiwi vines onto trellises to keep them off the ground and away from cabbage.

Planting Tips & Best Practices

• Optimal Spacing: Ensure at least 12 inches between cabbage plants and sufficient space for kiwi vines to spread without overshadowing.
• Timing: Plant cabbage and nasturtiums in early spring or late summer, while kiwi should be planted in the spring after the last frost.
• Container vs. Garden Bed: Kiwi is best suited for garden beds due to its size, while cabbage and nasturtiums can thrive in containers.
• Soil Preparation: Enrich soil with compost to meet the nutrient demands of all three plants.
• Companion Plants: Consider adding marigolds or dill, which also complement cabbage and nasturtiums.

FAQ Section

Can you plant cabbage and kiwi in the same pot?
No, kiwi requires more space and a larger root system than a pot can accommodate.

How far apart should cabbage and kiwi be planted?
Cabbage should be at least 12 inches apart, and kiwi vines need 10-15 feet of spacing.

Do cabbage and nasturtiums need the same amount of water?
No, cabbage needs moderate watering, while nasturtiums require less.

What should not be planted with cabbage?
Avoid planting cabbage with strawberries, as they can attract pests that affect cabbage.

Will kiwi affect the taste of cabbage?
No, kiwi will not affect the taste of cabbage when grown nearby.

When is the best time to plant these plants together?
Plant cabbage and nasturtiums in early spring or late summer, and kiwi in spring after frost.

By carefully considering the needs and characteristics of cabbage, kiwi, and nasturtiums, gardeners can successfully grow these plants together, leveraging their complementary traits for a thriving garden ecosystem.