Can You Plant Nasturtiums and Calendula Together?

Companion planting is a popular gardening technique that involves growing different plants in proximity for mutual benefits such as pest control and improved growth. Nasturtiums and calendula are two vibrant flowers often considered for this practice. This article explores their compatibility and offers practical tips for gardeners interested in growing them together.

Compatibility Analysis

Yes, you can plant nasturtiums and calendula together. These two plants are excellent companions due to their complementary growth habits and beneficial properties. Nasturtiums are known for their sprawling growth and ability to deter pests like aphids, while calendula attracts pollinators and has antifungal properties. Both plants thrive in similar conditions, making them ideal partners in the garden.

Key Factors for Compatibility

• Growth Requirements: Both plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making it easy to accommodate them in the same garden bed.
• Pest Control: Nasturtiums act as a trap crop for aphids, protecting other plants, while calendula can deter certain pests and attract beneficial insects.
• Nutrient Needs: Neither plant is particularly demanding, allowing them to coexist without depleting soil nutrients.
• Spacing: Proper spacing ensures that both plants have room to grow without overcrowding.

Growing Requirements Comparison Table

Benefits of Planting Together

Planting nasturtiums and calendula together offers several advantages:

• Pest Repellent Properties: Nasturtiums can trap aphids, while calendula attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies.
• Improved Growth: Both plants can enhance the growth of nearby vegetables by improving soil health and attracting pollinators.
• Space Efficiency: Their different growth habits allow for efficient use of garden space.
• Soil Health Benefits: Calendula’s roots can help improve soil structure, while nasturtiums add organic matter as they decompose.
• Pollinator Attraction: Both plants attract bees and butterflies, crucial for pollination.

Potential Challenges

While these plants are compatible, some challenges may arise:

• Resource Competition: Ensure adequate spacing to prevent competition for sunlight and nutrients.
• Watering Needs: Calendula prefers consistent moisture, while nasturtiums are more drought-tolerant. Adjust watering practices accordingly.
• Disease Susceptibility: Both plants can be prone to mildew; ensure good air circulation.
• Harvesting Considerations: Calendula’s blooms should be harvested regularly, which may disturb nearby nasturtiums.

Solutions

• Use mulch to retain soil moisture.
• Space plants adequately to reduce disease risk.
• Use drip irrigation to meet different watering needs.

Planting Tips & Best Practices

• Optimal Spacing: Plant nasturtiums 12-18 inches apart and calendula 8-12 inches apart.
• Timing: Sow seeds after the last frost when the soil has warmed.
• Container vs. Garden Bed: Both plants do well in containers or garden beds, but ensure containers have good drainage.
• Soil Preparation: Amend soil with compost for better drainage and fertility.
• Companion Plants: Pair with vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, which benefit from pest control and pollination.

FAQ Section

1. Can you plant nasturtiums and calendula in the same pot?

   • Yes, provided the pot is large enough to accommodate their growth and drainage needs.

2. How far apart should nasturtiums and calendula be planted?

   • Nasturtiums should be spaced 12-18 inches apart, while calendula needs 8-12 inches.

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

   • Calendula prefers more consistent moisture; adjust watering to suit both plants.

4. What should not be planted with nasturtiums and calendula?

   • Avoid planting with plants that require significantly different soil or water conditions.

5. Will nasturtiums affect the taste of calendula?

   • No, nasturtiums do not affect the taste of calendula.

6. When is the best time to plant nasturtiums and calendula together?

   • Plant after the last frost when the soil is warm enough for seed germination.

By following these tips and understanding the compatibility of nasturtiums and calendula, gardeners can enjoy a vibrant, pest-resistant garden that supports healthy plant growth and attracts beneficial pollinators.