Can You Plant Plums and Nasturtiums Together?

Companion planting is a time-honored gardening practice that involves growing different plants together to enhance growth, deter pests, and improve yields. Plums and nasturtiums are two popular choices in gardens, but can they thrive side by side? In this article, we’ll explore the compatibility of these plants, their growing requirements, and the benefits and challenges of planting them together.

Compatibility Analysis

Yes, you can plant plums and nasturtiums together, and they can complement each other in several ways. Nasturtiums are known for their pest-repellent properties, making them excellent companions for fruit trees like plums. They can help deter aphids and other pests that might otherwise harm plum trees. Additionally, nasturtiums are low-growing and won’t compete for sunlight, allowing them to coexist peacefully with taller plum trees.

Key factors to consider include:

• Growth Requirements: Both plants prefer full sun, which makes them compatible in terms of sunlight needs.
• Pest Control: Nasturtiums act as a natural pest deterrent, which can benefit plums.
• Nutrient Needs and Spacing: While they have different nutrient needs, nasturtiums can improve soil health, benefiting the plum tree.

Growing Requirements Comparison Table

Benefits of Planting Together

Planting plums and nasturtiums together offers several benefits:

• Pest Repellent Properties: Nasturtiums can deter aphids, whiteflies, and other pests from plum trees.
• Improved Growth: Nasturtiums can enhance soil health by fixing nitrogen and attracting beneficial insects.
• Space Efficiency: Nasturtiums’ low-growing habit allows them to cover the ground beneath plum trees without competing for space.
• Pollinator Attraction: Nasturtiums attract pollinators, which can improve plum tree fruit set.

Potential Challenges

While there are benefits, there are also potential challenges:

• Competition for Resources: Although minimal, there can be competition for water and nutrients.
• Different Watering Needs: Plums may require more consistent watering than nasturtiums.
• Disease Susceptibility: Both plants can be susceptible to fungal diseases, so good air circulation is essential.
• Harvesting Considerations: Care should be taken not to damage nasturtiums when harvesting plums.

Practical Solutions

• Watering: Ensure both plants receive adequate water, especially during dry spells.
• Soil Health: Regularly check and amend the soil to meet the needs of both plants.
• Disease Prevention: Prune plum trees to maintain air circulation and reduce disease risk.

Planting Tips & Best Practices

• Optimal Spacing: Plant nasturtiums approximately 12 inches apart around the base of plum trees.
• Timing: Plant nasturtiums in spring after the last frost; plant plum trees in late winter or early spring.
• Container vs. Garden Bed: Nasturtiums can be grown in containers placed around plum trees.
• Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with organic matter to support both plants.
• Companion Plants: Consider adding other companions like marigolds, which also deter pests.

FAQ Section

Can you plant plums and nasturtiums in the same pot?

No, plums need more space and depth than a pot can provide. Nasturtiums can be grown in pots placed near plum trees.

How far apart should plums and nasturtiums be planted?

Plum trees should be spaced 15-20 feet apart, while nasturtiums can be planted 12 inches apart around the tree base.

Do plums and nasturtiums need the same amount of water?

Not exactly; plums may need more consistent watering, particularly during fruiting.

What should not be planted with plums and nasturtiums?

Avoid planting plants that require heavy nutrients or compete for water, like large shrubs or trees.

Will nasturtiums affect the taste of plums?

No, nasturtiums will not affect the taste of plums but can enhance their growth by deterring pests.

When is the best time to plant plums and nasturtiums together?

Plant plum trees in late winter or early spring, and add nasturtiums in spring after the last frost.

By understanding the compatibility and requirements of plums and nasturtiums, gardeners can create a thriving, harmonious garden space that benefits both plants.