Here are the best companion plants for watermelons.
Much of companion planting is based on observation and folklore.
On the flip side, some gardeners also believe there areplants you shouldnt plant together.
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Watermelons are in the cucurbit family, whichincludes squashand cucumbers.
These plants have separate male and female flowers and cannot self-pollinate.
To pollinate and produce a watermelon, a bee must visit multiple timesto transfer 500 or more pollen grains!
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Poor pollination also leads to misshapen fruit or cracks in the center of melons.
They also should not be so tall that they shade out your watermelons.
Theyre loved by pollinators and a potential trap crop because theyre a favorite ofaphids, a common watermelon pest.
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Beneficial hover flies are then attracted to feed on aphid larvae.
Sweet Alyssum
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This low-growing, sweetly scented annual is a pollinator magnet.
Green lacewings are also attracted to this plant, and their larvae feed on adult aphids.
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Borage
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This annual herb is easy to grow from seed.
Planting borage near crops can help to increase pollinator activity.
Of course, you’re free to also harvest this herb for cooking.
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Consider plantinga lavenderborder near your garden plot.
In addition, it can also provide shade during hot summer days.
The strong odor can also repel pests.Plant garlicaround borders or between watermelon rows.
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Sustainable Agriculture Research And Education Projects.
Native Bee Pollination Of Watermelon.
Xerces Society For Invertebrate Conservation.
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