Growing flowers alongside your vegetables is a smart gardening trick I’ve used for years. Not only do flowers add colour and fragrance, but they also attract beneficial insects that help your veggies thrive. Here are the best flowers to plant in your vegetable garden:
1. Marigolds – Natural Pest Control
Marigolds are a gardener’s best friend. Their scent repels many common pests like aphids and nematodes. I plant them around the edges of my vegetable beds to keep unwanted bugs away naturally.
2. Nasturtiums – Edible and Attractive
Nasturtiums not only bring bright pops of orange and yellow but their leaves and flowers are edible. They attract pollinators and act as a trap crop, drawing aphids away from vegetables.
3. Calendula (Pot Marigold) – Easy and Versatile
Calendula blooms almost all season and is great for cutting as well as attracting pollinators. It’s a hardy flower that tolerates many conditions, making it a reliable companion in vegetable gardens.
4. Borage – Beneficial Bee Magnet
Borage is excellent for attracting bees, which increases pollination and improves vegetable yields. Plus, its leaves can be used as a cucumber substitute in salads!
5. Cosmos – Lightweight and Colourful
Cosmos flowers are light and airy, making them perfect for interplanting without overshadowing your veggies. They attract beneficial insects and add a delicate charm to your garden.
Tips for Growing Flowers in Vegetable Gardens
- Plant flowers along the borders or in small clusters between vegetable rows.
- Avoid invasive flowers that might compete heavily for nutrients.
- Choose flowers that bloom at different times to ensure continuous pollinator visits.
- Keep an eye on water needs—most veggies and flowers prefer similar moisture levels.
💡 Final Thought:
Integrating flowers into your vegetable garden not only beautifies your space but also creates a balanced ecosystem. Over time, you’ll notice healthier plants and a more vibrant garden buzzing with life.