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Companion Plants
Consider complementary tones and interesting textures to fill a sunny border with warmth:
Annual. These spectacular spikes of pink, pipe cleaner-like shoots twist and turn like a Dr. Seuss illustration. Spires are attractive to bees and butterflies. They are an excellent cut flower, adding great interest to any vase or dried arrangement. Plants are salt tolerant, and not particular about soil type so long as it is well-draining. Drought tolerant once established, take care not to overwater. No fertilization necessary.
Location: Mid-border, Cottage garden, Coastal garden
Bloom Period: July to September
Height: 24”
Plant Spacing: 12-14”
Annual. Make a statement with these huge, 5” blooms! Colours include pink, red, lavender and royal purple.
Zinnias will attract an abundance of butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden! Dwarf varieties are beautiful in the landscape or mixed containers, providing a flush of cheerful colour all season. Intermediate and tall varieties are outstanding cut flowers. Give the vegetable garden a boost by planting zinnias near tomatoes, potatoes and beans. Plants are very easy to grow, tolerating both heat and drought once established. For best performance, plant in rich, well-draining soil and water regularly.
Location: Rear border, Cut flower garden, Landscape planting
Bloom Period: June to September
Height: 2-3’
Plant Spacing: 9-12”
Annual. A classic variety of this popular annual - and one of my personal favourites. A true workhorse, ‘Carpet of Snow’ is one of the most versatile plants in the garden. As an ornamental, it can be tucked into the corners of raised beds, blanket the edge of a border bed, or drape gracefully over the sides of a mixed container. As a vegetable companion, its lovely, sweet fragrance attracts an abundance of pollinators and repels harmful insects. A low growth habit allows it to act as a living mulch. Both the leaves and flowers are edible, with a light peppery taste. Plants prefer moist, loamy soil, and providing a monthly dose of balanced fertilizer will be heartily rewarded.
Location: Front of border, Hanging basket, Mixed container, Vegetable garden
Bloom Period: June to October
Height: 6”, spreading to 12”
Plant Spacing: 5-8”