What is companion planting in ornamentals?

Companion planting in ornamentals refers to the practice of planting different species together to create mutually beneficial relationships between them. This approach recognizes that certain plants can positively influence the growth, health, or production of others when planted in proximity. For example, certain flowers can attract beneficial insects, which help in pollination or pest control, while some plants may provide shade or support for others or even enhance nutrient availability in the soil.

By incorporating diverse plant species, gardeners can take advantage of these relationships to improve plant resilience, enhance aesthetic appeal, and promote biodiversity within a garden setting. This method often leads to a more vibrant and healthy garden ecosystem compared to planting the same species together, which may not yield the same benefits.

Planting only native species or isolating plants for maximum growth does not align with the principles of companion planting, as these strategies do not focus on the interrelationships and benefits that arise from planting diverse species in close proximity.