Morning glories are a popular choice for gardeners due to their trumpet-shaped flowers that unfurl with morning light. These vining plants, often grown as annuals, offer a beautiful display of color. Companion planting involves growing different plant species together to foster a beneficial environment. This practice enhances plant health and productivity.
Why Companion Plant with Morning Glories
Companion planting with morning glories offers several advantages. Certain companion plants deter pests and attract beneficial pollinators. Some companions also improve soil health, enriching the soil.
Taller, sturdier plants can provide structural support for morning glory vines. Beyond practical benefits, companion planting enhances garden aesthetics, creating a diverse and vibrant display.
Beneficial Companion Plants for Morning Glories
Various plants serve as beneficial companions to morning glories. For structural support, sturdy plants like sunflowers or corn provide a natural trellis for morning glory vines.
For pest control, certain plants deter morning glory pests. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) release compounds that deter nematodes. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) act as a trap crop, luring aphids away.
Legumes like bush or pole beans improve soil health. They have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, converting atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form. This enriches the soil and supports vigorous morning glory growth.
Plants that complement morning glories or attract beneficial insects enhance garden aesthetics. Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus) and zinnias (Zinnia elegans) are colorful annuals that attract pollinators. Their varied heights and vibrant colors create an appealing contrast with vining morning glories.
Plants to Avoid Near Morning Glories
Some plants should be kept away from morning glories. Certain species aggressively compete for water, nutrients, and sunlight, hindering growth. This includes plants with extensive root systems or high nutrient demands.
Other plants may release allelochemicals, natural growth inhibitors. This may stunt growth. Additionally, planting species susceptible to the same pests or diseases can spread disease. For instance, if a companion plant is prone to spider mites, they could easily spread.
Morning glories are vigorous growers and can quickly overwhelm smaller plants. Their dense vining habit can smother delicate companions by blocking sunlight and air circulation. Therefore, avoid weak or slow-growing plants.
Tips for Combining Morning Glories and Companions
When combining morning glories with companion plants, consider proper spacing to prevent overcrowding. Adequate distance ensures each plant receives sufficient resources. Morning glories should have enough room to spread.
Ensure all plants receive appropriate sunlight. Morning glories thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight. Choose companion plants with similar light requirements. Mixing plants with differing light needs can cause struggle or scorching.
Watering is important. Morning glories prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil. Select companions that appreciate similar watering schedules to simplify maintenance.
Soil preparation benefits all plants. Amending the soil with organic matter improves drainage and nutrients. A rich, well-draining soil promotes robust growth.
General maintenance, like pruning, helps manage the morning glory’s vining habit. This prevents it from overwhelming or smothering companions. Regularly guiding vines onto supports or trimming growth ensures all plants thrive.