For the contemporary cannabis cultivator, maximizing cannabis plant health and yield involves more than just expert seasoning and watering practices—it encompasses the strategic use of companion plants. Companion planting, a practice dating back to indigenous people, involves growing different plant species next to each other, resulting in mutual benefits. When cannabis forms part of such an arrangement, it can benefit from pest control, additional nutrients, and increased overall plant health. The following best ten cannabis companion plants harmoniously work alongside cannabis, delivering a robust growing environment.
Best Cannabis Companion Plants
1. Marigolds
Marigolds have earned their keep in several gardens as a popular companion plant. They emit a strong fragrance deterring harmful insects, such as aphids and mosquitoes, while promoting soil health by killing nematodes (microscopic worms). Their vibrant, colored blooms also add an aesthetic touch to your cannabis garden.
2. Basil
Basil acts as a robust repellent, warding off pests like mosquitoes and thrips while simultaneously attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees. The strong aroma of basil helps to mask the cannabis odor, assisting with discretion for outdoor growers.
3. Alfalfa
This hardy legume is proficient in enhancing soil fertility by fixing nitrogen from the air into the soil. Not only is it a beneficial green manure crop due to its deep-rooting system, but Alfalfa plants also bring forth ‘alfalfa meal’—a natural fertilizer boosting cannabis plant growth and flowering.
4. Yarrow
Yarrow is a powerhouse of a companion plant for enhancing the local insect ecosystem. It invites beneficial species like ladybugs, predatory wasps, and other predatory insects that prey on harmful pests. Furthermore, its deep roots bring up nutrients that serve the surrounding plants.
5. Dill
Dill uniquely attracts wasps and other beneficial insects that prey on spider mites and aphids, keeping your cannabis plants free from these harmful pests. With its tall, wispy nature, it imparts an aesthetic appeal while bolstering your cannabis plants’ health.
6. White Clover
White clover effectively enriches the soil by absorbing nitrogen and making it readily available for cannabis plants. Acting as a living mulch, it prevents soil evaporation and deters weed growth, making it a practical choice for outdoor or larger indoor cannabis grows.
7. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums, with their vibrant, stunning flowers, add a splurge of color to the cannabis garden. They are valued for their potential to fend off multiple pests that can damage cannabis, including aphids, whiteflies, and beetles.
8. Beans
Beans work magic in the soil, making them an instrumental companion to cannabis. They have the ability to “fix” nitrogen, removing it from the air and depositing it into the soil, thus serving as a natural and cost-effective fertilizer to boost the overall vitality of the cannabis plant.
9. Peppermint
Apart from bestowing a cool, minty fragrance, peppermint also wards off a range of common pests. Its strong scent confuses pests, safeguarding cannabis plants from harmful attacks. The added bonus is that it can be harvested and used in plenty of refreshing recipes!
10. Chives
Chives, besides being a culinary delight, offer benefits to cannabis by deterring pests. Specifically, they repel aphids and spider mites, two common culprits in cannabis health downfall. Also, their brightly colored flowers can invite bees and other pollinators, stimulating biodiversity in your garden.
Conclusion
Companion planting is an age-old, yet powerful, strategy that cannabis cultivators can use to enhance their cannabis yield holistically. By choosing the right companions, you can naturally deter pests, enrich your soil, and even disguise your cannabis crops. Take a moment to consider your needs, preferences, and local conditions as you decide which of these companions align best with your cannabis plants. This tactic not only reduces the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers but also brings you one step closer to a healthy, ecologically balanced cannabis garden.