Companion Plants to Roses in a Flower Bed
Although roses have a reputation for needing careful tending, the rose varieties that rise in popularity to become favorites in the garden are typically sturdy varieties that are relatively easy to grow. Select rose varieties that are hardy in your locale, and follow the fertilization and watering recommendations. Avoid using poisonous chemicals by practicing companion planting in your flower bed. Companion plants provide benefits naturally and safely. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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Companion planting has been part of agriculture for centuries. When a plant was discovered to have properties that benefited other nearby plants, early farmers put this knowledge to use. Scented plants have been used to repel undesirable insects or to attract beneficial pollinating insects. Farmers use nitrogen-fixing legumes to improve soil fertility without adding chemical fertilizers.
Design
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Incorporate companion planting in your rose bed as a design element. A rose bed that is populated only with rose bushes can look stark and barren. Plant low-growing, spreading flowers or herbs among your roses to soften and complete the appearance of your rose bed. Wave petunias provide colorful blooms, and one plant can spread to cover 3 to 4 square feet. Choose plants that need full sun and that have soil type, watering and feeding requirements similar to those of your roses.
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Attract Predators
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Aphids are insect pests that damage roses and flowers as well as vegetables and fruits. Hummingbirds dine on aphids, so inter-plant your roses with flowers that attract hummingbirds, such as bee balm or salvia. Geraniums are double-duty companion plants. Geranium blossoms attract hummingbirds, while the plant's scent repels Japanese beetles.
Repel Insects
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In her book, "Roses Love Garlic," Louise Riotte notes that garlic and other members of the allium family are time-honored companion plants for roses. Garlic in particular repels several insect pests above ground, and it repels nematodes and other underground, soil-dwelling pests. The allium family also includes chives, onions, leeks and shallots. Planting any of these will promote a pest-free rose garden. Several other flowers and herbs also have aphid-repellent properties. Anise, coriander, nasturtiums, petunias, pennyroyal, spearmint, southernwood and tansy repel insects as they provide a variety of colors and textures to your rose bed.
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