Ground cover and natural pest deterrents

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greenstacie Silver Spring, MD May 08, 2008

Hi folks,

I'm gently taking care of my first vegetable/herb garden...ever! I'm enjoying it very much, and I'm trying to keep it as organic as possible.

I've spaced my tomatoes and peppers appropriately apart from each other, and have a few marigolds in the vicinity for pest control, but I'm wondering if there are any other plants that you can plant near tomatoes and peppers for ground cover? What are the pros and cons to putting plants over the ground versus just letting dirt separate the plants?

Also, other than marigolds, what are some good natural pest deterrents, and what are some plants or flowers that may attract good bugs and nutrients to my garden? Currently I have in my garden: marigolds, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, green beans (bush), sugar snap peas, and various herbs (basil, lemon basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, lemongrass, marjoram, and tarragon).

Any tips are much appreciated!

Thanks,
Stacie

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eogrinz Montclair, NJ May 08, 2008

The soil may look naked now, but just wait a month and there will be no bare spots, the tomatoes and everything will fill in. I'm reading a great new book called "Great Garden Companions" by Sally Jean Cunningham that has terrific info about what to plant to encourage beneficial insects. My kids just started going ballistic, so I can't give you any info from it now. Check it out, though, I think the info is great (it's published by Rodale).

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greenstacie Silver Spring, MD May 13, 2008

Thanks for the tip!

Now I just need to go check on my garden after tons and tons of rain in my area. I imagine I lost at least a few things. I'm in a community garden with little drainage. :(

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