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Sister Planting: The Age-Old Secret to a Thriving Garden
- oneacreliving
- Nov 5, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 19, 2023
Hello, green thumbs and aspiring gardeners!
Welcome back to One Acre Living. Today, we're delving into the magical world of sister planting. With just a little planning, you can maximize your garden's potential, help your plants flourish, and even fend off those pesky pests—all naturally!
What is Sister Planting?
Sister planting is the practice of growing different plants together to help each other out. Just like good friends or, well, sisters! Certain plant combinations offer mutual benefits, such as improved soil nutrition, natural pest control, and even better crop yield.
The Three Sisters
Let's start with the classic example: corn, beans, and squash. Native Americans have grown these together for centuries.
Corn offers a natural trellis for beans to climb.
Beans fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting corn and squash.
Squash leaves shade the soil, reducing weeds and preserving moisture.
More Popular Combinations
Tomatoes and Basil: Basil helps repel tomato hornworms.
Cucumbers and Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums act as a sacrificial plant, luring aphids away from your cucumbers.
Sunflowers with cucumbers and pole beans: Sunflowers act as a support for climbing plants and provide shade for plants who are heat sensitive.
Borage and Strawberries: Borage attracts pollinating bees that will enhance the flavor of strawberries and promote higher yield of fruit.
How to Start
Plan: Research what plants you intend to grow and their compatible sisters.
Prepare: Create ample space for each plant type, keeping their individual needs in mind.
Plant: Place your sister plants close but not too crowded, so they can benefit from each other.
Partner Tips: Nutrition and Fitness
A garden full of vibrant, healthy plants is just like a well-nourished body. If you're looking to level up your health game, our friends at Fit Bod Institute have got you covered with top-notch nutrition and fitness tips!
Conclusion
Sister planting is a fantastic way to make the most out of your garden space, all while promoting a balanced, thriving ecosystem right in your backyard. So why not give it a try this season?
Don't forget to make your gardening experience even more enjoyable with our special garden-themed apparel!
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