Companion planting means arranging the plants in a garden in
such a way that they enhance the growth and quality of nearby
crops, provide maximum ground cover, and, if possible, improve
the soil. Companion plants are also a way of controlling insect
populations. Fragrant flowers and herbs drive away pest insects.
For example, an annual with a strongly fragranced leaf and
blossom that many insects find unattractive is the marigold. Not
only does its strong odour confuse pests looking for their
favourite plants, but their roots give off a substance which
repels nematodes. Planting a couple of rows of marigolds around
the edge of your garden will add both beauty and a measure of
protection for your vegetables. Antagonist plants as their name
implies have negative effects when planted together, and should
therefore be grown apart from each other. Plants may be good
Companions because: They like the same soil and weather
conditions One helps the other by loosening the soil for its
roots One gives welcome shade and