Feijoas, also known as pineapple guavas, are beloved in New Zealand gardens for their delicious fruit and attractive appearance. To maximize the health and productivity of your feijoa plants, consider companion planting. This guide explores the best companion plants for feijoas in New Zealand, helping you create a thriving and harmonious garden.
The Benefits of Companion Planting
Companion planting involves growing different plants together to enhance growth, deter pests, and improve yields. By choosing the right companion plants for your feijoas, you can create a more productive and sustainable garden.
Beneficial Companion Plants for Feijoas
1. Borage
Firstly, borage is an excellent companion for feijoas. It attracts pollinators like bees, which are essential for the fruiting of feijoas. Additionally, borage improves soil health by adding trace minerals and acting as a natural mulch when it dies back.
2. Marigolds
Marigolds are well-known for their pest-repelling properties. Planting marigolds around your feijoas can help deter nematodes and other soil-borne pests. Their bright flowers also attract beneficial insects, promoting a healthy garden ecosystem.
3. Lavender
Lavender makes a beautiful and practical companion for feijoas. Its strong scent deters pests, while its flowers attract pollinators. Lavender also prefers similar growing conditions to feijoas, making them easy to care for together.
4. Comfrey
Comfrey is a dynamic accumulator, meaning it draws nutrients from deep in the soil and makes them available to other plants. Planting comfrey near your feijoas can improve soil fertility and provide a natural source of mulch when cut back.
5. Herbs
Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage are excellent companions for feijoas. They attract beneficial insects, repel pests, and can thrive in the same conditions as feijoas. Additionally, herbs add culinary value to your garden.
6. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums act as a trap crop, drawing aphids and other pests away from your feijoas. They also attract pollinators and can enhance the visual appeal of your garden with their bright, edible flowers.
Planting Tips for Success
To maximize the benefits of companion planting in New Zealand, follow these tips:
- Proper Spacing: Ensure adequate spacing between feijoas and their companion plants to avoid competition for nutrients and sunlight.
- Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with compost and organic matter to support the growth of both feijoas and companion plants.
- Consistent Watering: Maintain consistent watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulching can help retain moisture and reduce weeds.
- Regular Maintenance: Prune and deadhead companion plants as needed to promote healthy growth and continuous blooming.
Conclusion
In conclusion, companion planting can significantly benefit your feijoa plants by improving pollination, deterring pests, and enhancing soil health. By selecting the right companion plants, you can create a thriving and productive garden in New Zealand. Happy gardening!
The information about feijoas having a fibrous root system is useful. I’ll keep that in mind when planting.
I appreciate the different options for attracting birds and bees. It’s good to have a variety of choices.
Interesting suggestions for companion plants. I’m planning to plant feijoa trees myself, so this is helpful.
I didn’t know that planting a pollinator could increase the fruit yield of feijoa trees. Thanks for the tip!
The list of plants for repelling pests is quite informative. I’ll definitely consider borage and marigold for my garden.