- March 12, 2024
Companion planting for hydrangea is an experience-based observation developed over centuries. People have noticed that planting certain plants side by side has a positive effect on each other, increasing the quality and quantity of the harvest. Companion planting is not set in stone and it is the least you can do for your plants. You can get the right care from the individual plant article. You can see the companion and the enemy plants of hydrangea below.
| Companion plants for hydrangea | Enemy plants of hydrangea |
|---|---|
| Hostas | Sunflower |
| Azalea | Lavender |
Why does companion planting work?
Companion planting works due to several interconnected factors:
Pest Control: Certain plants emit natural chemicals or scents that repel pests, effectively acting as natural pest deterrents for nearby plants. This reduces the need for chemical pesticides and fosters a more balanced ecosystem.
Attracting Beneficial Insects: Some companion plants attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, hoverflies, and predatory wasps, which feed on common garden pests. This creates a natural form of pest control and helps maintain ecological balance.
Soil Improvement: Different plants have varying root structures and nutrient requirements. Companion planting can enhance soil health by reducing soil erosion, suppressing weeds, and improving nutrient uptake. For example, leguminous plants fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting neighboring plants that require nitrogen for growth.
Competition Reduction: Companion planting can help reduce competition for resources such as water, sunlight, and nutrients by utilizing plants with complementary growth patterns and root structures. This allows for more efficient resource utilization and healthier plant growth.
Biodiversity and Resilience: Planting diverse species together increases biodiversity in the garden, which can enhance ecosystem resilience. A diverse ecosystem is better equipped to withstand pests, diseases, and environmental stresses compared to monocultures.
Maximizing Space: Companion planting allows gardeners to make the most of limited space by intercropping plants with different growth habits and maturity rates. This maximizes yield per square foot and promotes efficient land use.
Overall, companion planting capitalizes on the natural synergies between plant species, creating a thriving and sustainable garden ecosystem.
What are the companion plants of hydrangea?
The following plants have positive effects on the growth of your hydrangea. These plants can repel pests that damage your plants. These plants provide increased nutrition to the soil that your plants can use. Therefore, we recommend planting these plants next to your hydrangea.
Hostas
Hostas flourish in well-drained, humus-rich soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. Partial shade and consistent moisture nurture their vibrant leaves and elegant presence. Hostas offer invaluable benefits to neighboring plants by providing ground cover, suppressing weeds, and enhancing soil moisture retention.
Azalea
Azaleas, with their vibrant blooms and elegant foliage, epitomize botanical majesty in the realm of companion planting. Flourishing in acidic, well-drained soil with dappled sunlight, these ornamental shrubs grace gardens with their resplendent hues and intricate floral patterns. As harbingers of seasonal beauty and tranquility, azaleas enchant both gardeners and admirers, infusing landscapes with unparalleled splendor.
What should you not plant next to hydrangea?
Planting these plants next to hydrangea have huge negative effects on the development of your plant. Growing enemy plants can appeal detrimental insects, change the taste of the grown plant and even consuming all of the nutrients and water from your hydrangea. Because of these negative effects, we don’t recomment growing the plants below next to your hydrangea.
Sunflower
Sunflowers thrive in fertile soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. Full sunlight and ample space nurture their towering stems and vibrant flowers. Sunflowers provide invaluable benefits to neighboring plants by attracting pollinators, enhancing garden aesthetics, and providing seeds for birds and wildlife. Belonging to the Asteraceae family, alongside esteemed companions like daisies and asters.
Lavender
Lavender thrives in various soil conditions. Flourishing in well-drained, alkaline soil with a pH range between 6.5 and 7.5. Full sunlight and good air circulation nurture its delicate flowers and aromatic foliage. Lavender provides invaluable benefits to neighboring plants by repelling pests, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, and promoting relaxation and tranquility in the garden environment. Belonging to the Lamiaceae family, alongside esteemed companions like rosemary and mint, lavender symbolizes the natural elegance and serene beauty found within the garden's sanctuary.
