Can You Plant Peas, Nasturtiums, and Calendula Together?

Companion planting is a popular gardening technique where certain plants are grown together to enhance growth, deter pests, and maximize space. Peas, nasturtiums, and calendula are often considered for this method due to their potential benefits. In this guide, we’ll explore whether these plants are compatible and how you can effectively plant them together.

Compatibility Analysis

Yes, you can plant peas, nasturtiums, and calendula together. These plants complement each other well, offering mutual benefits that enhance garden health and productivity. Peas, being legumes, fix nitrogen in the soil, which can benefit nearby plants like nasturtiums and calendula. Nasturtiums are known for their pest-repelling properties, particularly against aphids, which can protect peas. Calendula attracts beneficial insects and pollinators, supporting overall garden health.

Key factors to consider include their growth requirements, such as sunlight, water, and soil needs. All three plants thrive in similar conditions, making them suitable companions. Proper spacing is essential to ensure each plant has enough room to grow without competing for resources.

Growing Requirements Comparison Table

Benefits of Planting Together

Planting peas, nasturtiums, and calendula together offers several benefits:

• Pest Control: Nasturtiums repel aphids and other pests, protecting peas and calendula.
• Improved Growth: Peas enrich the soil with nitrogen, promoting healthy growth for companions.
• Space Efficiency: Different growth habits allow for efficient use of vertical and horizontal space.
• Soil Health: Legumes like peas improve soil fertility, benefiting nearby plants.
• Pollinator Attraction: Calendula attracts pollinators, enhancing the garden ecosystem.

Potential Challenges

While these plants can thrive together, there are potential challenges:

• Resource Competition: Ensure adequate spacing to prevent competition for sunlight and nutrients.
• Watering Needs: Although they have similar water needs, monitor soil moisture to avoid overwatering.
• Disease Susceptibility: Keep an eye out for common diseases and use crop rotation to prevent issues.
• Harvesting: Be mindful of harvesting times to avoid damaging nearby plants.

Practical solutions include using trellises for peas to maximize vertical space and mulching to retain soil moisture.

Planting Tips & Best Practices

• Spacing: Plant peas 2–3 inches apart, nasturtiums 10–12 inches apart, and calendula 12 inches apart.
• Timing: Sow seeds in early spring after the last frost for optimal growth.
• Container vs. Garden Bed: All three can be grown in containers or garden beds, but ensure containers are deep enough for roots.
• Soil Preparation: Use well-drained soil enriched with compost to provide nutrients.
• Additional Companions: Consider adding marigolds or radishes, which also pair well with these plants.

FAQ Section

• Can you plant peas and nasturtiums in the same pot?
  Yes, but ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate their growth and drainage needs.

• How far apart should these plants be planted?
  Peas should be 2–3 inches apart, nasturtiums 10–12 inches apart, and calendula 12 inches apart.

• Do peas and calendula need the same amount of water?
  Yes, both require moderate watering, but adjust based on weather conditions.

• What should not be planted with these plants?
  Avoid planting with plants that have vastly different water or sunlight needs.

• Will nasturtiums affect the taste of peas?
  No, nasturtiums do not affect the taste of nearby plants.

• When is the best time to plant these together?
  Early spring after the last frost is ideal for planting together.

By considering these factors and following best practices, you can successfully plant peas, nasturtiums, and calendula together, creating a thriving and harmonious garden space.