Image 1 of 2
Image 2 of 2
Companion Plants
Create a warm summer border by mixing annuals and perennials:
Annual. A true alien of the plant world. These tall, green-flowering spikes make for an interesting addition to the garden, and double as excellent cut flowers. They will often self-seed, but are not invasive. For straight stems, stake plants early. Plant in rich, well-draining soil for best performance.
Location: Mid-border, Cut flower garden
Bloom Period: July to September
Height: 2-3’
Plant Spacing: 12”
Perennial. These cheerful, easy-to-care-for plants are perfect for the beginner gardener. Low-growing, they spread into an evergreen mound with bright reddish-fuschia blooms. As a ready self-seeder, this variety can quickly form a low-maintenance ground cover. After an initial flush of flowers in late spring, plants will continue to bloom on and off throughout the summer. Drought tolerant once established, they are ideal for poor soils in hot, dry areas. Salt tolerance also makes them a great choice for coastal gardens.
Location: Front of border, Rock garden, Ground cover
Bloom Period: June/July
Height: 8”, spreading to 18”
Plant Spacing: 14”
Annual. Hands-down one of the most outstanding late season performers. With a colour that gradually deepens from apricot to creamy pink, you will fall in love with these huge, fluffy blooms! The flowers are long-lasting, providing a burst of delicate beauty deep into the fall. If you can bring yourself to snip off a few stems, they are also a sensational cut flower. Plant in average to rich soil, and fertilize monthly for largest blooms.
Location: Mid-border, Mixed container, Cut flower garden
Bloom Period: August to October
Height: 35”
Plant Spacing: 6-12”
Annual. This Mexican marigold is smothered in petite, sunny flowers with a light citrus scent. Plants grow in neat mounds with lacy green foliage. Both leaves and flowers are edible - leaves as a flavourful salad green, and flowers to dress up salads or desserts.
The quintessential companion plant, marigolds are stars in the vegetable garden. They attract bees, butterflies and beneficial predatory insects. They are an excellent companion for tomatoes and potatoes, as they repel harmful insects and soil nematodes. Plant in average soil with even moisture and fertilize every few weeks.
Location: Vegetable garden, Front of border, Mixed container
Bloom Period: June to October
Height: 12”
Plant Spacing: 12”