The Best Ground Cherry Companion Plants

Ground cherries, also known as cape gooseberries, are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be grown in many different climates. They are relatively low-maintenance plants that can thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. However, like all plants, ground cherries can benefit from companion planting.

Companion planting is the practice of planting certain plants together in order to create a mutually beneficial relationship. Some plants can help to attract pollinators, while others can help to repel pests. By planting the right companion plants together, you can help to improve your ground cherry harvest and create a healthier, more productive garden.

Here are some of the best companion plants for ground cherries:

• Basil. Basil is a well-known insect repellent that can help to keep pests away from ground cherries. It also attracts pollinators, which are essential for fruit production.
• Marigolds. Marigolds are another great insect repellent that can help to protect ground cherries from pests such as aphids, beetles, and whiteflies. They also help to improve the soil quality around ground cherries.
• Parsley. Parsley is a good companion plant for ground cherries because it helps to deter nematodes, which are microscopic worms that can damage plant roots. It also helps to attract pollinators.
• Chives. Chives are a pungent herb that can help to repel pests such as mosquitoes, ants, and cabbage moths. They also help to improve the flavor of ground cherries.
• Potatoes. Potatoes and ground cherries are both members of the nightshade family, so they can benefit from being planted together. Potatoes help to suppress weeds, while ground cherries help to attract pollinators.
• Beans. Beans are nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they can help to improve the nitrogen content of the soil around ground cherries. This can lead to healthier plants and a better harvest.
• Carrots. Carrots and ground cherries are both root vegetables that can benefit from being planted together. They don't compete for the same nutrients, so they can thrive in the same space.
• Onions. Onions have a strong sulfuric smell that can help to repel pests such as aphids, beetles, and moths. They also help to improve the flavor of ground cherries.

When choosing companion plants for ground cherries, it is important to consider the plants' individual needs and preferences. For example, ground cherries need full sun, so you will want to choose companion plants that also thrive in full sun. You will also want to avoid planting ground cherries with plants that have similar pests or diseases, as this can increase the risk of infection.

With a little planning, you can easily create a companion planting scheme that will benefit your ground cherries and help you to enjoy a bountiful harvest.

Ground cherries are a delicious and easy-to-grow fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, cooked, or dried. They are also a good source of vitamins A and C. When planting ground cherries, it is important to consider their companion plants. Some good companion plants for ground cherries include:

• Basil: Basil helps to repel pests such as aphids and tomato hornworms.
• Marigolds: Marigolds attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps, which help to control pests.
• Parsley: Parsley helps to improve the flavor of ground cherries.
• Carrots: Carrots help to deter nematodes, which can damage ground cherry roots.
• Hot peppers: Hot peppers help to repel pests such as cucumber beetles and squash bugs.

For more information about ground cherry companion plants, please visit Gardenia Inspiration. This website provides a comprehensive list of companion plants, as well as information on how to plant and care for ground cherries.

FAQ of ground cherry companion plants

• What are the best companion plants for ground cherries?

Some of the best companion plants for ground cherries include:

* Basil: Basil repels common ground cherry pests, such as aphids and tomato hornworms.
* Carrots: Carrots help to deter root-eating pests, such as nematodes and carrot rust flies.
* Chives: Chives repel aphids, spider mites, and other pests.
* Marigolds: Marigolds attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps, which help to control pests.
* Onions: Onions repel thrips, root-knot nematodes, and other pests.

• What plants should I avoid planting near ground cherries?

It is best to avoid planting ground cherries near other members of the nightshade family, such as tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. These plants can compete for resources and attract similar pests.

• How far apart should I plant ground cherries?

Ground cherries should be planted about 2 feet apart. This gives them enough space to grow and produce fruit.

• When should I plant ground cherries?

Ground cherries can be planted in the spring or fall. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

• How do I care for ground cherries?

Ground cherries are relatively easy to care for. They need regular watering, especially during hot weather. They should also be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer.

Image of ground cherry companion plants

• Basil. Basil is a great companion plant for ground cherries because it helps to repel pests such as aphids and spider mites. It also attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which help to control pests.
• Marigolds. Marigolds are another great companion plant for ground cherries because they help to repel nematodes, which are microscopic worms that can damage plant roots. They also attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which help to pollinate the ground cherries.
• Carrots. Carrots are a good companion plant for ground cherries because they help to deter pests such as the carrot rust fly. They also help to improve the drainage of the soil, which is beneficial for ground cherries.
• Onions. Onions are a good companion plant for ground cherries because they help to repel pests such as the onion thrip. They also help to improve the flavor of the ground cherries.
• Potatoes. Potatoes are a good companion plant for ground cherries because they help to suppress weeds. They also help to improve the drainage of the soil, which is beneficial for ground cherries.