C
ompanion planting is an age-old gardening practice where different types of plants are grown in close proximity to support each other’s growth. Rather than planting a single crop in one area, you intentionally pair certain vegetables, herbs, or flowers together based on how they interact above and below the ground. This approach can help deter pests, attract beneficial insects, and even improve soil fertility over time. For example, beans can release nitrogen into the soil, nourishing nearby plants, while aromatic herbs like basil or oregano may repel harmful insects. Historically, many Indigenous communities throughout North and South America practiced companion planting with remarkable success—most famously, the “Three Sisters” of corn, beans, and squash.
Gardening in Alberta’s Zone 3 climate adds another layer of complexity to this practice, but it also highlights why companion planting is so helpful. Zone 3 is known for short growing seasons, which means gardeners face the challenge of late spring frosts and an early onset of cooler temperatures in the late summer. The risk of frost can persist even into June, forcing gardeners to be mindful about planting too soon. In addition, weather and precipitation levels can be unpredictable, and Alberta often experiences spells of dry weather, occasional hail, or sudden drops in temperature. These conditions mean that every inch of your garden space matters, and every strategy to optimize growth and protect plants can be a game-changer.
Companion planting can be especially beneficial in a cold climates because it encourages a more biodiverse garden bed, which helps balance pest populations. By mixing a variety of plant shapes, smells, and growth habits, you’re essentially making it harder for pests to home in on their favorite targets. This diversity also tends to draw in pollinators and other beneficial insects, which naturally help keep pests at bay. Moreover, taller or more robust plants can provide small “microclimates” for more delicate crops—think of a sunflower shielding vulnerable lettuces from excessive heat and wind, or a row of dense bush beans providing shelter to smaller herbs.
Beyond pest control and microclimate creation, companion planting also makes effective use of limited space. Zone 3 gardens have to pack a lot of production into a short timeframe, and planting complementary crops together can help maximize yields. For example, a fast-growing crop like radishes can be sown between rows of slower-growing tomatoes or peppers, allowing you to harvest the radishes before the larger plants need the space. This approach helps you efficiently utilize the brief warm weather, increasing the total harvest from your garden patch. In addition, interplanting different vegetables and herbs often leads to healthier soil, since each plant uses and replenishes various nutrients.
Getting started with companion planting in Alberta’s Zone 3 doesn’t have to be daunting. Begin by assessing your garden space, noting sunny vs. shady spots, and identifying existing windbreaks or sheltered corners. If you’re new to gardening in cold climates, consider investing in a reliable soil test kit to understand the pH and nutrient profile of your soil. Healthy soil is the foundation for successful gardening, and you can improve it by adding compost or well-rotted manure. Once you have a sense of your soil and microclimates, research which vegetable and herb varieties are best suited to short-season growing. Look for cold-hardy or fast-maturing varieties, and then explore classic companion pairings—like tomatoes with basil or carrots with onions—to create your initial layout.
Above all, remember that companion planting is part science, part art. You’ll learn a great deal from observing how different combinations perform in your specific environment, particularly when it comes to timing your planting around Alberta’s unpredictable weather. Start with a few proven pairings, keep notes in a garden journal, and be prepared to experiment over the seasons. Whether you have a sprawling rural plot or a small urban backyard, companion planting can help you navigate the challenges of Zone 3 while fostering a more vibrant, resilient, and productive garden.
Over the coming week, we’ll explore the techniques and strategies that will help you master the art of companion planting and get the most out of your short but rewarding growing season.
- Ham & Bean Soup - February 2, 2025
- Imbolc and Groundhog Day - February 2, 2025
- Reduce Dependence on Imported Vegetables - February 1, 2025
- Companion Planting Introduction
- Soil and Climate Challenges
- Vegetable Companion Planting Fundamentals
- Companion Planting Strategies with Herbs
- Creating a Polyculture Garden
- Natural Pest Control Through Companion Planting
- Crop Rotation and Long-Term Garden Planning
- Final Thoughts on Companion Planting