Companion Planting : Creating a More Biodiverse Allotment

​Gardening, like life, is a Journey 

Eight years ago, I took on an allotment plot as a complete novice. Like many beginners, I turned to Google for guidance and was quickly led down the path of the “perfect” allotment: neat beds, trimmed grass, and everything precisely in its place. I even purchased an online planner and meticulously plotted every detail—crop rotation schedules, seedling quantities, and symmetrical layouts.

While that method works wonderfully for many allotmenteers, it never quite clicked for me. Where was the life in such a controlled space? Where were the buzzing pollinators, the bees, the plants that would bring vibrancy and health to the plot? Where were the natural predators that keep slugs in check, and the companion plants that fend off pests like blackfly?

​So, to cut a very long eight-year story short(!), I’ve finally landed at a place that feels right for me. This season marks a turning point. There are feeders for small birds, a small wildlife pond full of plants, wildflowers have been sown, and the crops I will  grow will be right amongst them because I’m companion planting now.

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Companion planting involves planting two or more plants together to form an association from which both or all plants benefit. A long-established and popular practice in the garden, companion planting can potentially create efficient use of space, reduce disease and deter unwelcome insects, and allow plants to provide each other with physical support. I’m planting nasturtiums with broad beans, and french marigolds (tagettes) with tomatoes. Will fewer crops be lost to slugs or blackfly? Will the pond attract dragonflies, newts, and other new visitors? Only time will tell but I will be watching carefully over the next few months. What I do know is that I am trying to create better conditions for a greater diversity of plant and animal life to flourish, like that shown in this photo. If nothing else, this year’s plot will be a kaleidoscope of colour—a feast for the eyes, heart and stomach! ​
                                                                            Photo credit https://www.allotmentonline.co.uk/companion-planting​

Cathy Honey is a resident of Betchworth and an active contributor to the 4Bs Nature Group and Biodiversity Initiative

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A COMPANION PLANING GUIDE
https://www.allotmentonline.co.uk/companion-planting​