About Carrot Companion Planting
Companion planting creates a more diverse garden with the benefits of sharing nutrients efficiently, repelling pests and attracting beneficial pollinators. A companion planting of carrots and onions for instance is a long standing tradition, wherein the aroma of the onions deters the carrot root fly and the smell of the carrots repels onion fly from the onions. Another option to plant to repel carrot fly is mint. It is thought that the strong scent from this herb and alliums repel the fly, although there is no scientific data and this method may be best combined with creating a barrier to deter the fly. On the other hand, dill, celery and root parsnips and potato are not considered good companion plants for carrots. Root crops all require high levels of phosphorous, thus planting root crops close together leads to competition for nutrients and a less vigorous yield. Dill can cross pollinate with carrots leading to less than savory hybrids. Carrots can increase the likelihood that parasitic wasps and lacewings are attracted to dill and parsley.
Carrot Companion Plants
With the exception of the above, most crops are suited as carrot companion plants. These include lettuce, chives, onions, peas, radishes, cabbage, leeks and herb such as sage and rosemary. A carrot and tomato companion planting is especially beneficial. Carrots like things a bit cooler, so growing them beneath the protective leaves of a tomato plant keeps the roots cool. Intermix with lettuce and onion to maximize space. The varying root depths allow a smaller area to utilize water and nutrients efficiently.
