Taro Companion Plants That Will Thrive Together

Taro is a tropical or subtropical plant that has been cultivated for centuries for its edible corms, leaves, and flowers. It is a versatile crop that can be grown in a variety of soils and climates, and it is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. Taro is also a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

One of the best ways to ensure a successful taro crop is to plant it with companion plants. Companion planting is the practice of planting different types of plants together in order to benefit each other. Some companion plants can help to improve the soil, attract beneficial insects, or deter pests.

There are many different companion plants that can be grown with taro. Some of the best include:

• Sweet potato: Sweet potato is a close relative of taro, and the two plants can benefit each other in a number of ways. Sweet potato vines can help to shade the taro plants, which can help to prevent them from getting sunburned. Sweet potato roots also release a substance that can help to suppress the growth of nematodes, which are a common pest of taro.
• Swamp cabbage: Swamp cabbage is another tropical plant that is closely related to taro. It can be grown in water or in moist soil, and it can help to improve the drainage around taro plants. Swamp cabbage also releases a substance that can help to repel mosquitoes, which can be a problem for taro growers in some areas.
• Ginger: Ginger is a versatile herb that can be grown in a variety of climates. It can help to improve the soil around taro plants, and it can also help to repel pests. Ginger also has a strong aroma that can help to deter mosquitoes.
• Lemongrass: Lemongrass is another herb that can be grown with taro. It has a strong citrusy aroma that can help to deter pests, and it can also help to improve the soil. Lemongrass can also be used to make tea or lemonade, which can be a refreshing addition to any meal.
• Lilies: Lilies are beautiful flowers that can also be beneficial to taro plants. They can help to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help to control pests. Lilies can also help to improve the drainage around taro plants.
• Chilies: Chilies are not only hot and spicy, but they can also be beneficial to taro plants. They can help to repel pests, and they can also help to improve the soil. Chilies can also be used to make sauces, salsas, and other dishes that can be enjoyed with taro.

These are just a few of the many companion plants that can be grown with taro. When choosing companion plants, it is important to consider the climate, soil type, and pests that are common in your area. By planting taro with the right companion plants, you can help to ensure a healthy and productive crop.

Taro is a tropical plant that is grown for its edible corms. It is a relatively easy plant to grow, but it can benefit from companion planting. Companion planting is the practice of planting different plants together that benefit each other. Some good companion plants for taro include:

• Sweet potato: Sweet potato is another tropical plant that is grown for its edible roots. It is a good companion plant for taro because it helps to suppress weeds and attract beneficial insects.
• Swamp cabbage: Swamp cabbage is a leafy green vegetable that is tolerant of wet soil. It is a good companion plant for taro because it helps to improve soil drainage and suppress weeds.
• Ginger: Ginger is a flavorful root vegetable that is also a good companion plant for taro. It helps to repel pests and diseases, and it also helps to improve the flavor of taro leaves.
• Lemongrass: Lemongrass is an aromatic herb that is also a good companion plant for taro. It helps to repel pests and diseases, and it also helps to improve the flavor of taro corms.
• Lilies: Lilies are beautiful flowers that are also good companion plants for taro. They help to attract beneficial insects and they also help to improve the soil quality.

For more information about taro companion plants, please visit Gardenia Inspiration.

FAQ of taro companion plants

1. What are the best companion plants for taro?

The best companion plants for taro vary depending on whether you are growing your taro in soil or water. In soil, some good companion plants include sweet potato, swamp cabbage, ginger, lemongrass, and lilies. In water, some good companion plants include water spinach, watercress, and lotus. These plants can help to deter pests and diseases, attract beneficial insects, and improve the overall health of your taro plants.

2. How far apart should taro plants be planted?

Taro plants should be spaced 15 to 24 inches apart in rows that are 40 inches apart. This will give the plants enough room to grow and spread without competing for resources.

3. When is the best time to plant taro?

Taro can be planted any time of year in frost-free areas. However, it is best to plant them in the spring in cold areas. This will give the plants time to establish themselves before the weather gets too cold.

4. How do I start taro bulbs?

Taro bulbs can be started by planting them in a pot of moist soil. The pot should be placed in a warm location with indirect sunlight. The bulbs should start to sprout within a few weeks. Once the plants have a few sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into the garden.

5. What are some common pests and diseases that affect taro plants?

Some common pests that affect taro plants include aphids, spider mites, and snails. Some common diseases that affect taro plants include taro leaf blight, taro bacterial wilt, and taro mosaic virus. If you notice any pests or diseases on your taro plants, it is important to treat them immediately.

Image of taro companion plants

Here are 5 different images of taro companion plants from Pinterest:

1. Lemongrass is a good companion plant for taro because it deters pests and diseases. It also helps to improve the soil quality.
2. Tomatoes are another good companion plant for taro. They help to deter pests and diseases, and they also benefit from the shade of the taro leaves.
3. Beans are a good nitrogen-fixing plant that can be planted alongside taro. This helps to improve the soil quality for both plants.
4. Cucumbers are a good companion plant for taro because they both like similar growing conditions. They also help to shade the taro roots, which can help to prevent them from rotting.
5. Spinach is a good companion plant for taro because it helps to repel pests. It also grows quickly, so you can harvest it and replant it in the same space as the taro, which helps to prevent weeds from growing.