I was sent a copy of this book by the Author to read and review and I have to say this book it's very informative on the subject of Companion Planting which is a subject that most allotment holders get into once they, get past their first year and start thinking more about secessional sowing and how to max out the growing area they have.

This book is a great addition to the permaculture books that I have and again covers principals and gives guidance on how to apply rules and guidelines, to assist the reader in getting more out of their growing space.

The summary below is what I usually include in my reviews but this summary was provided and there is no point in reinventing the wheel so I've just included it and apologise for the fact it's written in American English rather than English English

Available on Amazon

Hardback £23.59

Paperback £8.09

Introduction

The introduction humorously highlights the frustrations and challenges often faced by beginner gardeners, contrasting the hardiness of weeds like dandelions with the fragility of cultivated plants. It introduces the concept of permaculture, specifically companion planting, as a transformative solution for creating sustainable, low-maintenance gardens regardless of available space. The author promises that with initial effort, a garden can become self-sustaining, addressing common issues such as soil quality, pest management, and space constraints. The introduction explains that companion planting not only reduces the time and resources typically required for gardening but also enhances the yield and health of the garden without relying on artificial inputs like fertilizers or pesticides. The text outlines the structure of the book, which includes a detailed guide to the benefits and practical implementations of companion planting, known as the "GROWER" method. This method covers everything from the basics of companion planting to specific strategies for optimizing garden layout, managing pests naturally, and choosing plant pairings. The author uses personal anecdotes to underscore the effectiveness of these techniques, encouraging readers to overcome gardening challenges and achieve their gardening goals with less effort.

Chapter 1

The chapter explores the intriguing world of plant communication and companion planting. Plants primarily communicate chemically and through underground mycorrhizal networks, altering behaviors and sharing resources in response to environmental cues. Recent studies reveal that plants also emit ultrasonic "clicking" sounds potentially audible to some insects and mammals. The purpose of these sounds—whether for communication, attraction of pollinators, or distraction of predators—is still uncertain, though their frequency varies with the plant's health.

Companion planting is presented as a sustainable alternative to traditional monocultural farming, which harms soil quality, biodiversity, and increases reliance on chemical interventions. This method involves planting diverse crops in proximity, promoting mutual benefits like improved soil health, natural pest control, weed management, and enhanced pollination. This approach not only optimizes space and increases yield but also aligns with permaculture principles, emphasizing sustainability and ecosystem balance.

The chapter also addresses concerns related to companion planting, such as initial time investment and space requirements. Despite potential challenges, the benefits of companion planting—demonstrated through historical practice and recent studies—suggest a compelling case for its effectiveness in creating a self-sustaining, productive garden environment. The narrative encourages embracing companion planting for a healthier, more efficient garden ecosystem.

Chapter 2

This chapter explains the scientific principles underlying companion planting, emphasizing the natural interactions and chemical communications between plants. It introduces the concept of allelopathy, where plants release chemicals to protect themselves from pests, diseases, and competition, thereby influencing soil health and nearby organisms. This process, driven by volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can have both beneficial and harmful effects on the environment.

The text elaborates on how companion planting serves as an effective pest management strategy and enhances soil health by fostering beneficial microbial interactions. These microbes help break down organic materials, making nutrients more accessible to plants. The chapter also discusses structural strategies for pest control, such as using physical barriers and attracting predatory insects, which naturally manage pest populations without harmful chemicals.

Additionally, the narrative addresses common myths about companion planting, clarifying that while it offers numerous benefits, it does not guarantee pest or disease elimination and is not universally successful in every garden scenario. The importance of soil health, the role of microbial activity in nutrient cycling, and the need for diverse soil biota to maintain a healthy garden ecosystem are also highlighted.

Overall, the chapter aims to demystify companion planting, presenting it as a science-based approach to gardening that leverages natural plant interactions to promote a healthier, more sustainable garden environment.

Chapter 3

This chapter focuses on the strategic planning and design of a garden with an emphasis on companion planting to maximize space and plant synergy. It begins by underscoring the importance of prioritizing function over beauty in garden layout, advising that plants should be placed based on their environmental needs rather than aesthetic desires. The chapter then delves into setting clear gardening goals, which could range from reducing grocery bills by growing fruits and vegetables to creating a flower garden for aesthetic enjoyment.

A sizable portion of the chapter is dedicated to explaining the concept of a "guild," a grouping of plants within a garden that supports each other's growth and well-being. The roles within a guild—such as attracting pollinators, repelling pests, and covering ground—are detailed to help gardeners understand how to effectively assemble their plant communities. Practical considerations for garden planning are discussed, including soil quality tests, sunlight requirements, and pest control strategies.

The chapter also covers the preparation and ongoing management of soil, emphasizing the importance of soil health as the foundation for a successful garden. Methods for testing and adjusting soil pH, determining soil type, and improving soil structure are provided to equip gardeners with the tools they need for a thriving garden.

Finally, the text discusses layout designs that optimize space usage, like dividing garden space into blocks or using vertical gardening techniques, especially useful for those with limited space. The chapter concludes by highlighting the importance of planning, research, and creative problem-solving in establishing a productive and sustainable garden.

Chapter 4

This chapter focuses on the benefits and methodologies of using simple companion planting techniques to maximize garden yields without increasing labor. The concept is based on creating vegetable guilds, specifically pairings of just two crops, making it ideal for beginners and those with limited space. This approach moves away from the complexity of polycultures, aiming to simplify gardening through effective dual plant synergies.

The chapter highlights several classic pairings, such as basil and tomatoes, which are not only culinary complements but also share mutual benefits when grown together. Basil helps enhance tomato growth and protects against pests, while tomatoes provide shade for basil, helping retain soil moisture. Other pairings discussed include carrots and onions, which help each other by repelling respective pests and improving soil structure, and marigolds with peppers, which enhance pest control and attract beneficial insects.

Key to these pairings is the ease of care and maintenance. The chapter provides specific instructions for planting, watering, and harvesting, ensuring that even novice gardeners can follow along and achieve successful results. It also discusses the importance of soil preparation, positioning for adequate sunlight, and proper spacing to avoid competition for nutrients.

In summary, the chapter offers a straightforward, accessible introduction to companion planting that emphasizes practicality and effectiveness, making it possible to double the yield without doubling the effort in gardening.

Chapter 5

The chapter emphasizes the dual purposes of herbs in the garden: enhancing culinary dishes and providing medicinal benefits. A significant point discussed is the ancestral use of plants in medicine, with many contemporary pharmaceuticals being derived from these traditional uses, though now often synthesized for stability and mass production.

The text highlights specific herb pairings, such as rosemary and sage, and their benefits for both the garden and kitchen. These pairings not only help in pest management and disease prevention but also enhance each other's growth and the garden's overall health. Rosemary, known for its aromatic qualities and drought resistance, is particularly noted for its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

Care and maintenance tips are detailed for each herb pairing, emphasizing the importance of proper sunlight, watering, and soil conditions. For example, rosemary and sage thrive in full sun and less frequent watering, benefiting from being planted together due to their similar needs but non-competing nutrient uptake.

The chapter also covers the harvesting rules for herbs, stressing not to overharvest and to encourage regrowth by focusing on new growth and pruning before winter. It concludes with a broader discussion on the benefits of companion planting, such as improving soil health, managing pests naturally, and maximizing garden space efficiently.

Chapter 6

This chapter focuses on companion planting strategies for fruits and their beneficial plant partners, emphasizing practical techniques for small garden spaces. It highlights how growing your fruits can be both a cost-effective and gratifying experience, providing fresh produce directly from the garden.

The chapter outlines several key pairings, such as strawberries and borage, where borage supports strawberry growth by deterring pests, attracting pollinators, and potentially enhancing fruit flavor through soil mineral improvement. It discusses the care, benefits, and harvesting methods for both plants, noting that borage is an annual that needs replanting each year, while strawberries are perennials that spread to cover and protect the soil.

Additionally, the text covers apple trees paired with comfrey, another member of the borage family, which offers similar benefits in terms of pest control and soil health. Comfrey also acts as a trap crop for apple pests and provides ground cover to prevent soil erosion.

Another notable pairing discussed is blueberries with rhododendrons, which share a preference for acidic soil. This section explains the specifics of maintaining soil pH levels for optimal growth and details the benefits of each plant, emphasizing blueberries' health benefits and rhododendrons' aesthetic appeal.

The chapter concludes by advocating for the integration of companion planting in gardening practices, highlighting the ecological and personal benefits of such methods. It encourages gardeners to experiment with these combinations to maximize their garden's yield and health, leveraging companion planting as a strategy to enhance both beauty and productivity in the garden space.

Chapter 7

This chapter focuses on the integration of flowers in the garden, not only for their beauty but also for their functional roles in enhancing garden health and productivity. The chapter covers several key pairings of flowers with vegetables and highlights the benefits of such arrangements.

One prominent example is the pairing of marigolds with various crops. Marigolds are easy to grow, edible, and serve multiple purposes such as pest and nematode management, attracting pollinators, and acting as a trap crop. However, marigolds are not compatible with plants like beans and cabbage due to similar pest attractions, and they fare poorly with blueberries due to different soil pH requirements.

Sunflowers and cucumbers are another notable pair discussed in the chapter. Sunflowers function as natural trellises for cucumbers, help in soil detoxification, attract pollinators, and improve overall crop yield. The author humorously notes that whole sunflowers can be grilled and taste like a mix between corn on the cob and artichoke.

Nasturtiums paired with roses serve dual purposes of beauty and functionality. They attract beneficial insects and can function as trap crops for pests, while both plants add aesthetic value to the garden.

Finally, the chapter discusses the benefits of other flower-vegetable pairings such as petunias with beans, and zinnias with cauliflower, emphasizing their roles in pest control, pollination, and even soil health. Each section of the chapter details the specific care and maintenance for the plants involved, ensuring optimal growth and yield.

Chapter 8

This chapter delves into overcoming the challenge of limited gardening space, a common obstacle for many aspiring gardeners. It emphasizes that while the ideal scenario would involve ample space to grow a variety of crops to one's content, reality often requires making the most of smaller or unconventional spaces. The text introduces several strategies for maximizing limited areas by adopting methods like companion planting and permaculture principles.

For those with small yards, the book suggests replacing grass with gardening areas. Simple methods like mulching can transform a grassy patch into fertile land ready for planting. In scenarios where soil is scarce or non-existent, such as concrete patios or balconies, raised beds and container gardening are recommended. These methods allow gardening on hard surfaces by using containers that can be filled with soil and plants.

Urban dwellers with minimal outdoor space are encouraged to explore vertical gardening using structures like PVC pipes or gutters to grow upward rather than outward. This technique is particularly useful for apartments with small balconies or limited floor space, enabling the cultivation of vining plants and the use of hanging baskets.

The text also addresses the extreme scenario of having no outdoor space at all, suggesting indoor gardening as a viable alternative. Here, the focus is on smaller, shade-tolerant plants and the use of growth lights to compensate for the lack of natural sunlight.

Finally, the chapter advocates for practicality and minimalism in gardening choices, especially in constrained spaces. It encourages growing only the crops that one will consume and suggests quick-growing varieties to maximize yield within limited time and space. This approach not only ensures efficient use of space but also aligns with sustainable living practices.

Chapter 9

This chapter of the text outlines various natural pest management strategies through companion planting, an environmentally friendly approach that uses the natural properties of certain plants to protect gardens. Key methods discussed include using aromatic herbs and flowers to either mask the scent of crops or attract beneficial insects that prey on harmful pests. For example, the chapter details how cilantro, dill, and fennel attract ladybugs that help control spider mite populations, while plants like garlic, chives, and marigolds are effective against aphids by repelling them and sheltering predatory insects.

Furthermore, the text emphasizes the importance of identifying common garden pests like spider mites, aphids, thrips, whiteflies, leaf miners, snails, and slugs, providing specific plant suggestions to counter each pest. Strategies vary from creating unfavorable environments for pests to using trap crops that serve as sacrificial plants to distract pests from more valuable crops.

The chapter advocates for a holistic approach combining several types of companion plants—those with strong scents, those that attract predators, and trap crops—to optimize pest control. However, it acknowledges that while effective, companion planting is not a foolproof solution; pests will still be present, but their numbers should not be overwhelming. This method not only helps in managing pests but also promotes biodiversity and reduces the need for chemical pesticides.

Chapter 10

This chapter provides an in-depth look at how various climates affect companion planting. It outlines five climate zones—tropical, temperate, continental, dry, and polar—each characterized by distinct environmental conditions influencing what crops can grow and how they should be paired.

In tropical climates, where it is consistently hot and humid, all crops thrive year-round without winter interruptions. Key crops such as coconuts, bananas, and mangoes excel here, with suggested companion plants like bananas with sweet potatoes and mango trees with nasturtiums.

Temperate climates, with warm summers and mild winters, allow a diverse range of crops to overwinter, leading to extended harvest periods. This zone is conducive to growing almost any plant, benefiting from neither extreme cold nor extreme heat.

Continental climates feature warm summers but harsh, snowy winters, limiting winter crop production unless grown in greenhouses. It is advisable to start plants early indoors to extend the growing season.

Dry climates, receiving minimal rainfall and resembling deserts, present the toughest growing conditions. Strategies like using raised beds, shade netting, and frequent irrigation are essential. Plants like peppers and basil, which are drought-tolerant once established, are recommended companions.

Polar climates are the most challenging due to the persistent cold and ice, making outdoor planting impossible without artificial environments like greenhouses and growth lamps. Hardy crops like spinach and peas might survive under such controlled conditions.

Each section emphasizes the importance of understanding one's local climate to optimize plant pairings and schedules, ensuring a successful harvest by selecting appropriate companion plants for each climate zone.

Chapter 11

This chapter provides practical guidance on overcoming common gardening challenges. It emphasizes the importance of preventative measures, such as improving soil quality through amendments based on soil tests and adapting to local climates by selecting region-specific seeds or seedlings. Planning is crucial, and the chapter suggests planning plant guilds by considering which plants are compatible, their needs, and space requirements.

To prevent and address common problems such as pests, diseases, and poor yields, the chapter advises regular garden monitoring and maintaining a garden journal. It discusses how companion planting can reduce pest infestations and diseases, and the necessity of interventions like using netting or natural pest controls when needed. The text also highlights issues related to soil management, emphasizing the need for frequent soil enrichment and the dangers of overwatering and overcrowding. Each section provides solutions to these problems, including adjusting watering practices and thinning out plants to manage space effectively.

Overall, the chapter serves as a guide for both novice and experienced gardeners to effectively manage their gardens by understanding and preventing potential problems, and by continually learning from experience.

Conclusion

Companion planting is endorsed as an integral permaculture practice to establish an eco-friendly and biodiverse garden, aligning with natural processes. The text underscores the futility of opposing natural systems, advocating for human stewardship over nature, which coexists with numerous other species. Despite skepticism regarding its efficacy, various studies affirm the benefits of companion planting. It follows the inherent resilience and thriving of natural landscapes like forests and fields, which flourish without human intervention. The narrative criticizes the use of harmful chemicals in gardening, which not only targets pests but also detrimentally affects other life forms. The author argues for growing one's own organic, non-GMO produce to positively impact the environment.

Emphasizing the learning and experimentation inherent in gardening, the author views each challenge as a chance for growth and improvement. The process of designing a garden, or "guild," tailored to personal and environmental factors is highlighted as requiring considerable effort but rewarding. The author aims to ease readers into practical gardening experiences, encouraging even those with minimal space to engage in gardening. The book's goal is to inspire action through hands-on practice, fostering a self-sustaining garden ecosystem that minimizes maintenance while maximizing natural benefits.