Companion planting involves placing different plant species near each other for mutual benefit. This creates a balanced, resilient ecosystem where plants support each other’s growth and health. For grapevines, companion plants lead to a more thriving, productive environment, enhancing their well-being.
The Advantages of Companion Planting for Grapes
Companion planting benefits grapevines by deterring pests through scents or “trap crops,” reducing chemical use. Aromatic species can mask grape scent, making them less appealing to harmful insects.
Another benefit is attracting beneficial insects. Flowering companions attract pollinators like bees, improving fruit set. Predators like ladybugs and parasitic wasps feed on vineyard pests for control. Diversifying plant species strengthens the vineyard ecosystem against environmental stressors.
Companion plants improve soil health and nutrient availability. Legumes fix nitrogen for grapes. Deep-rooted companions break up compacted soil, improving aeration and water infiltration. Ground cover plants suppress weeds, reducing competition for water and nutrients.
Microclimate creation is another advantage, as plants provide shade or retain soil moisture. This protects grapevines from excessive sun and sunburn. Ground covers and low-growing plants maintain consistent soil temperatures and conserve moisture during dry spells. This support contributes to a healthier, more sustainable grapevine system.
Good Companion Plants for Grapes
Numerous plants can positively impact grapevines when planted nearby.
Herbs
- Rosemary: Repels pests, stabilizes soil moisture.
- Thyme: Deters insects, acts as living mulch.
- Lavender: Attracts pollinators, deters rabbits and deer.
- Chamomile: Effective against mildew.
- Garlic and Onions: Deter aphids and spider mites.
- Basil: Repels aphids and whiteflies, masks grape scent.
- Oregano: Repels aphids and spider mites, may increase soil nitrogen.
- Hyssop: Attracts pollinators, may improve grape flavor.
- Chives: Deter aphids and Japanese beetles, attract beneficial insects.
Flowering Plants
- Marigolds: Deter aphids and nematodes.
- Nasturtiums: Trap aphids, diverting them from grapevines.
- Alyssum: Attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies.
- Sunflowers: Provide shade for grapevines, aerate soil.
- Geraniums: Repel leafhoppers and Japanese beetles.
- Yarrow: Attracts beneficial insects.
Legumes and Cover Crops
- Beans and Peas: Nitrogen-fixing, enrich soil, suppress weeds.
- Clover: Nitrogen-fixer, living mulch, suppresses weeds, attracts beneficial insects.
- Alfalfa: Deep taproots aerate compacted soils, fix nitrogen.
- Buckwheat: Quick-growing cover crop, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds.
- Asparagus: Breaks up compacted soil with deep roots.
- Elm and Mulberry Trees: Offer shade and shelter; mulberries attract pest-controlling birds.
Plants to Avoid Near Grapes
Avoid certain plants near grapevines due to resource competition or allelopathy. Some vegetables, like cabbage and radishes, are not recommended due to high nutritional requirements and resource competition. Cabbage and other brassicas also have different environmental needs, preferring cooler temperatures and consistent moisture, which can lead to root rot or fungal infections if the soil remains too damp.
Allelopathic plants release biochemicals inhibiting nearby plant growth. Black walnut trees produce juglone, toxic to many plants including grapes, causing stunted growth or death. Fennel is another allelopathic plant that reduces root mass in nearby species and is not friendly to other garden plants. While some alliums like garlic and onions offer benefits, some sources suggest they compete with grapevines for resources and may stunt growth due to chemical emissions, especially if planted too close.
Implementing Companion Planting in Your Vineyard or Garden
Successful companion planting requires careful consideration. Proper spacing prevents root competition, allowing grapevines and companions to access water and nutrients. Understanding growth habits helps provide ample room for root systems and canopies. This ensures adequate sunlight reaches both grapes and companion plants, as grapevines require full sun.
Matching water needs is important. Grapevines prefer well-drained soil, so select companions with similar water requirements to avoid overwatering or underwatering. Soil preparation should address both needs, incorporating organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility.
General maintenance, like monitoring grapevine and companion health, is essential. This allows adapting strategies, like adjusting watering schedules or adding nutrients if deficiencies arise. Implementing seasonal planting rotations for annual companion crops aligns with grapevine growth stages and harvest periods, maximizing year-round benefits. This integrated approach creates a balanced, productive garden environment for grapes.