What is companion planting?

Companion planting is a gardening strategy that involves the use of different plant species in proximity to one another to create a mutually beneficial environment. This practice is built on the understanding that certain plants can enhance growth, protect each other from pests, and improve soil health when grown together. For example, some plants may repel insects that would otherwise harm their neighbors, while others may attract beneficial insects or provide necessary nutrients to the soil.

The idea behind companion planting is rooted in the observation that biodiversity in the garden can lead to better overall health and productivity. Examples of successful companion pairs include marigolds with tomatoes, where marigolds may deter certain pests, or basil with peppers, where basil enhances the growth and flavor of the peppers.

In contrast, the other options focus on planting strategies that do not capture the essence of the mutual benefits provided by different species working together. Planting the same species together might lead to improved yields through uniformity, but it doesn't utilize the interactions between different plant types. Planting flowers exclusively near vegetables restricts the possibility of diverse interactions and benefits that can arise from mixing plant species. Lastly, planting in rows to maximize space utilization emphasizes efficiency in arrangement rather than the ecological advantages that companion planting offers.