Planting mistakes to avoid: Exploring incompatible

crop combinations
agriculture.com.ph/2023/06/01/planting-mistakes-to-avoid-exploring-incompatible-crop-combinations

James Tababa June 1, 2023

By JAMES TABABA

It’s important to consider the compatibility of different plants before planting them near
each other. Just like people, plants have their preferences and dislikes when it comes to
their neighbors. Plant incompatibility refers to the phenomenon where certain plants,
when grown together, can have detrimental effects on each other’s growth and
development. When incompatible plants are placed near each other, they can compete
for resources, release chemicals that inhibit each other’s growth, or create unfavorable
conditions for one or both of them, or even their surroundings. It’s important to note that
not all plants are incompatible with each other, and some even benefit from being planted
together. However, certain combinations can lead to stunted growth, decreased yields, or
increased susceptibility to diseases and pests.

Here are some factors that can contribute to plant incompatibility:

Allelopathy

One significant factor in plant incompatibility is allelopathy, which refers to the release of
chemicals by certain plants that inhibit the growth of other nearby plants. These chemical
compounds can affect germination, root development, or overall plant health. For
example, onions release allelopathic compounds that can inhibit the growth of nearby
bean plants. Planting onions and beans too close together may result in reduced bean
growth and development.  Another example is cabbage and lettuce. When planted
together, the allelopathic effects of cabbage can negatively impact the growth and yield of
lettuce plants.

Sunflower is a popularly grown plant grown for its vibrant and iconic flowers that brighten
any garden. However, it’s important to know that sunflowers possess allelopathic
properties that can have a detrimental impact on nearby crops. When planted close to
other plants, sunflowers release chemicals that can stunt the growth and development of
neighboring crops. So, it is generally not advisable to plant other crops in immediate
proximity to sunflowers, as their growth may be hindered.

Different growing requirements

Plants have varying growing requirements. Some plants may require specific soil pH
levels, sunlight exposure, or water conditions. Plants also have different growth habits,
including their height, spread, and density. Incompatible growth habits can result in
shading, overcrowding, or competition for space and light. For example, vine plants like

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cucumbers may overtake and shade smaller plants if not given adequate space. It’s
important to consider the growth habits of plants to ensure they have enough room to
grow and receive sufficient sunlight.

Pest and diseases

Certain plants are more prone to diseases or attract specific pests, which can have a
cascading effect on nearby crops. Plants from the same family often have similar growing
requirements, such as soil pH, sunlight, and water needs. Planting them together makes
it easier to provide the optimal conditions for their growth. However, they may be
susceptible to similar pests and diseases. Planting them together can create an ideal
environment for these issues, as pests and diseases can easily spread among closely
related plants. For instance, planting tomatoes near potatoes can increase the risk of
spreading diseases such as late blight. Cucumbers and melons belong to the same plant
family and are vulnerable to similar diseases, including powdery mildew and cucumber
beetles. Growing them together can lead to disease transmission and increased pest
infestation.

Creating a productive garden involves more than just putting plants in the ground.
Considering plant incompatibility is crucial for ensuring healthy and productive plant
growth. Signs of plant incompatibility include stunted growth, yellowing leaves, poor
yields, increased susceptibility to diseases and pests, and overall unhealthy appearance.
By understanding factors like allelopathy, different nutrient and growing requirements, and
disease and pest, gardeners can be mindful of avoiding incompatible plant pairings and,
instead, prioritize the selection of companion crops that establish mutually beneficial
relationships when grown together.

READ: Make a garden productive through companion planting, Part 1: Benefits

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