Arugula has always been a favourite among gardeners because of its spicy taste and quick growing. This healthy green leafy vegetable belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which means it has some sturdy companions. In this article, we will discuss the best arugula companion plants that can help you maximise yields, reduce pest damage, and increase flavour.
Companion planting with Arugula
Companion planting has been practised for centuries by our ancestors, and it’s still in use today because of its potential benefits. By planting different plants together, they can enhance each other’s health, yield, and flavour while minimising pest and disease damage. Here are some of the best arugula companion plants to consider:
1. Lettuce
The lettuce plant and arugula are a match made in heaven. They both have the same growing requirements and are fast-growing leafy vegetables. The lettuce plant can provide some shade to the arugula, preventing it from bolting too quickly in hot summers. The lettuce can also grow in between rows of arugula, helping to maximise garden space.
2. Beans
Beans are legumes and have the natural ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth, and arugula is no exception. Therefore, planting beans near arugula can help to boost soil health and provide the necessary nutrients for arugula growth.
3. Radish
Radishes are quick-growing root vegetables that can mature in as little as 22 days. They also have the same growing requirements as arugula, such as full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Placing radishes alongside arugula can help to break up compacted soil, improve drainage, and deter harmful insects that can damage arugula leaves.
4. Mint
Mint is an aromatic herb that can repel pests naturally, including aphids and whiteflies. Planting mint around the border of your arugula bed can create a barrier that pests would have difficulty crossing. Mint is also easy to grow, and its leaves are beneficial as a flavour enhancer for salads and dressings.
5. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are edible flowers that can add colour and flavour to your salad bowl. However, their benefit to arugula isn’t just cosmetic. Nasturtiums contain compounds that deter insects such as aphids, whiteflies, and cabbage moths, common pests of the arugula plant. Planting nasturtiums around the border of your arugula bed can help to create a pest-free environment.
Concluding thoughts on Best Arugula Companion Plants
Companion planting is a natural way to improve your garden’s health, yield, and flavour. Arugula benefits from planting near beans, lettuce, radish, mint, and nasturtiums. Not only do they provide the necessary nutrients and protection, but these plants can also enhance the taste of arugula in your salads.
FAQs about Best Arugula Companion Plants
1. Can I plant tomatoes with arugula?
Tomatoes are not recommended to be planted with arugula as they both have different growing requirements. Tomatoes require more water, a more significant amount of fertiliser and do not do well in the shade.
2. Can I plant arugula with other Brassicas?
You can plant arugula with other Brassicas, such as broccoli, kale, and cabbage, but do not plant them near each other as they can attract the same set of pests.
3. Can I plant arugula with dill?
Dill and arugula are not compatible as dill attracts pests that can damage arugula plants.
In conclusion, the best arugula companion plants are the ones that provide the necessary nutrients, protection, and flavour enhancement without competing for resources. By adopting companion planting principles, you can reduce the use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers while enhancing your garden’s health and yield.
