The Fig Tree's Best Friends: Companion Planting For A Healthy And Productive Harvest

The Fig Tree's Best Friends: Companion Planting for a Healthy and Productive Harvest

Figs are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, dried, or cooked. They are also a relatively easy fruit to grow, but there are a few things you can do to help ensure a healthy and productive harvest. One of these things is companion planting.

Companion planting is the practice of planting certain plants together to benefit each other. There are a number of different ways that companion plants can help each other, including:

• Attracting beneficial insects. Some plants attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help to control pests. For example, planting marigolds near fig trees can help to attract these beneficial insects and keep pests away.
• Distracting pests. Other plants can distract pests, making them less likely to bother your fig trees. For example, planting mint near fig trees can help to distract pests such as ants and aphids.
• Improving soil quality. Some plants can improve the soil quality around your fig trees, making it more fertile and easier for the trees to absorb nutrients. For example, planting legumes, such as peas or beans, can help to fix nitrogen in the soil, which is a nutrient that fig trees need.
• Providing shade. Some plants can provide shade for your fig trees, which can help to protect them from the hot sun. For example, planting citrus trees near fig trees can help to provide shade and reduce the risk of sunburn.

There are a number of different plants that can be companion planted with fig trees. Some of the best companions for fig trees include:

• Marigolds: Marigolds attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help to control pests. They also improve soil quality by suppressing weeds and attracting earthworms.
• Mint: Mint can help to distract pests, such as ants and aphids, and it also improves soil quality by attracting beneficial bacteria.
• Legumes: Legumes, such as peas or beans, fix nitrogen in the soil, which is a nutrient that fig trees need. They also help to improve soil structure by breaking up compacted soil.
• Citrus trees: Citrus trees provide shade for fig trees and can also help to attract beneficial insects.
• Herbs: Herbs, such as basil, rosemary, and thyme, can help to repel pests and improve the flavor of figs.

When companion planting, it is important to consider the size and mature growth habit of the plants you are planting. For example, you would not want to plant a fig tree next to a plant that will eventually grow much taller than the fig tree. It is also important to consider the amount of sunlight and water each plant needs.

By companion planting with fig trees, you can help to ensure a healthy and productive harvest. So next time you are planting a fig tree, be sure to consider some of the companion plants that can help it thrive.

Fig trees are a delicious and versatile fruit, but they can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Companion planting is a great way to help protect your fig tree from these problems, and it can also improve the overall health and productivity of your plant.

There are many different plants that can be companioned with fig trees, but some of the most beneficial include:

• Marigolds: Marigolds help to repel pests like nematodes and aphids.
• Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which help to control pests.
• Chives: Chives help to improve the flavor of figs, and they also repel pests.
• Comfrey: Comfrey is a nitrogen-fixing plant that can help to improve the soil quality around your fig tree.
• Strawberries: Strawberries help to suppress weeds and improve the drainage around your fig tree.

If you're interested in learning more about fig companion planting, I recommend visiting Gardenia Inspiration. This website has a wealth of information on the topic, including a list of the best plants to companion with fig trees, as well as tips on how to plant and care for your fig tree.

FAQ of fig companion planting

1. What are the benefits of companion planting with figs?

There are many benefits to companion planting with figs. Some of the most common benefits include:

• Attracting beneficial insects: Many plants that are good companions for figs attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. These insects help to control pests that can damage fig trees.
• Improving soil quality: Some plants that are good companions for figs help to improve soil quality. For example, legumes fix nitrogen in the soil, which can help to fertilize fig trees.
• Distracting pests: Some plants that are good companions for figs can distract pests, making them less likely to attack the fig tree. For example, mint has a strong scent that can deter pests such as Japanese beetles.
• Providing shade: Some plants that are good companions for figs can provide shade, which can help to protect the fig tree from hot sun and wind.

2. What are some good companion plants for figs?

Some of the best companion plants for figs include:

• Herbs: Herbs such as mint, basil, and rosemary can help to attract beneficial insects and improve soil quality.
• Flowers: Flowers such as marigolds, nasturtiums, and sunflowers can also help to attract beneficial insects and improve soil quality.
• Vegetables: Vegetables such as onions, garlic, and tomatoes can help to deter pests and improve soil quality.
• Fruit trees: Other fruit trees, such as apples, pears, and plums, can also be good companions for figs.

3. What are some bad companion plants for figs?

Some plants that should be avoided as companions for figs include:

• Grapes: Grapes can compete with fig trees for water and nutrients.
• Potatoes: Potatoes can harbor pests that can also damage fig trees.
• Cucumbers: Cucumbers can attract pests that can also damage fig trees.
• Eggplants: Eggplants can harbor pests that can also damage fig trees.

4. How far apart should fig trees be planted?

Fig trees should be planted at least 15 feet apart. This will give the trees enough space to grow and spread their roots.

5. What is the best time of year to plant figs?

Figs can be planted in the spring or fall. However, spring is the best time to plant figs in most climates.

Image of fig companion planting

• Fig tree with lavender: Lavender is a great companion plant for fig trees because it helps to repel pests and attract pollinators.
• Fig tree with strawberries: Strawberries are another good companion plant for fig trees because they have similar growing requirements and can help to suppress weeds.
• Fig tree with comfrey: Comfrey is a deep-rooted plant that can help to improve the soil around the fig tree. It also attracts pollinators and can be used as a mulch.
• Fig tree with marigolds: Marigolds are known for their pest-repelling properties, so they can help to keep pests away from your fig tree.
• Fig tree with nasturtiums: Nasturtiums are another good choice for a companion plant for fig trees because they help to attract pollinators and deter pests.