Pam’s progress with her companion planting
July 4, 2008
by Shobha Vanchiswar
Here is my second monthly installment on how Pam Wright’s experiment with companion planting is coming along.
(To read the first installment, click here: Let’s check in on Pam Wright and her companion planting, click here :Let’s check in on Pam Wright and her companion planting NewcastleNOW.org, June 6, 2008)
The bad news: weeds and cold weather
As you can see from the photos, there has been much growth. Unfortunately, this indicates that weeds have been her biggest problem. Pam was advised by the person who inspired her to try companion planting that close under planting would choke out the weeds, but that has not happened. She feels if she had perhaps under planted with more mature plants instead of seedlings, it might have worked. Some collards that were under planted with mature nasturtiums are more weed free.
The damp, cold spell a little while back has caused her marigolds to struggle. She lost some and others are stunted. Also due to the damp weather, all the cucumbers called it quits.
The good news: no watering necessary
Pam has now top dressed with compost. Over this she will be adding a layer of mulch. The tomatoes have been staked.
Because of the rain, she has not had to do any watering.
The cabbage, Swiss chard, squash and pumpkin are doing well amidst the foundation plantings in the front. Pam has added garlic chives to the cabbage and nasturtiums around her mail box. She hopes this will deter the deer.
I think, in the past month, many lessons have been experienced and learned. This is a great example of how wonderful a classroom a garden can be. Stay tuned for further progress.
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