What Are The Best Plants For A Wildlife-friendly Garden?
If you're a fan of Echinacea, better known as coneflower, then you probably want to make the most of this beautiful and beneficial plant in your garden. But did you know that the way you plant it can make a big difference? Here are some tips on companion planting with Echinacea, so you can get the most out of your garden:
- Plant with other Native Wildflowers: Echinacea is native to North America, so it naturally pairs well with other wildflowers that also grow in the region, such as black-eyed Susan and butterfly weed. Not only will they complement each other in terms of color and texture, but they'll also attract similar pollinators to your garden.
- Pair with herbs: Certain herbs, such as basil, borage, and thyme, can provide natural pest control for Echinacea. Plus, they'll make your garden look and smell amazing.
- Pair with Asparagus & Tomatoes: These are veggies that grow well with Echinacea in the garden. They do not compete with the plant for resources, so both crops can enjoy healthy growth in the same soil, especially when they're planted in rows.
- Avoid grasses and other tall plants: Tall plants, such as corn and ornamental grasses, can easily overshadow Echinacea, so avoid planting them together if you want your coneflowers to thrive. Instead, consider shorter plants that can complement their beauty, such as zinnias and marigolds.
- Pair with Plants that Provide Shade: If you live in an area where the sun can be strong and intense, planting Echinacea alongside plants that provide shade like shrubs, tall trees, and other shade-providing perennials can help reduce the amount of sunlight that hits the plant, thereby ensuring it gets enough water while it continues to grow mature and produce flowers.
- Consider Companion Plants for all Stages of Growth: Echinacea is a perennial, which means it will come back year after year, so you'll want to think about companion plants that can pair well with it in all stages of its growth cycle, from early spring when it starts to emerge from the ground to late summer when it's in full bloom. This means thinking about plants that will complement its various colors and textures as it grows, and also those that will provide it with some shade and support when needed.
Following these tips can help you create a beautiful, productive garden that will keep your Echinacea plants healthy and happy. Remember that taking care with companion planting is one of the most important keys to successful gardening.
Now that you know how to plant your Echinacea, get out there and have fun creating the garden of your dreams!
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