The benefits of companion planting for Feijoa
Companion planting helps attract beneficial insects that prey on Feijoa pests.An Australian study found that feijoa companion plants boosted populations of key natural enemies by up to 50%. Allows more efficient use of garden space and provides mutual support for plants.Intercropping techniques like companion planting are ancient methods of crop cultivation that continue to provide benefits today.
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.
The benefits of companion planting for Feijoa
Companion planting helps attract beneficial insects that prey on Feijoa pests.An Australian study found that feijoa companion plants boosted populations of key natural enemies by up to 50%. Allows more efficient use of garden space and provides mutual support for plants.Intercropping techniques like companion planting are ancient methods of crop cultivation that continue to provide benefits today.
Choosing the Right Companion Plants for Feijoa
There are certain characteristics to consider when choosing the best companion plants for Feijoa. Compatible companions will provide the most benefits while avoiding competition.
Similar growth habits: Companion plants should have feijoa companion plants that grow to a similar size and shape. This ensures plants get adequate sun, water and nutrients with minimal shading or crowding.
Matching moisture needs: Feijoa prefers moist but well-drained soil. Choose companions that also thrive in moist but well-aerated conditions. Avoid plants like cacti and succulents with very different drought tolerance.
Complimentary pH preferences: Ideally, companion plants for Feijoa should prefer a similar soil pH range around 6.0 to 7.0. This avoids issues from incompatible nutrient absorption.Soil pH levels.
Attracting natural enemies: Many aromatic plants attract beneficial insects that prey on Feijoa pests.Marigolds,garlic and various herbs are particularly effective companion plants under this criteria.
Repelling key pests: Certain plants release chemicals that deter specific damaging insects from Feijoa.Onions and members of the Allium family repel many types of soft-bodied bugs and beetles.
Some of the best overall companion plants for Feijoa include:
- Marigolds
- Garlic
- Oregano
- Fennel
- Basil
Feijoa Companion Plants that Deter Pests and Diseases
Several common companion plants for feijoa release chemicals that deter or repel key pests while also hindering the spread of diseases among Feijoa plants.
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) – Marigolds emit thiophene chemicals that repel a wide variety of insects including those that damage Feijoa.Their flowers also attract hover flies and lacewings to feed on pest insects.Marigolds are even effective against nematodes in the soil.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) – Basil leaves contain linalool and eugenol toxic to many bugs and larvae that attack Feijoa.These includes plum curculio, red spider mite and Japanese beetles.Basil’s aromatic chemicals also inhibit the growth of fungi causing plants diseases.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – The essential oils in thyme leaves and stems kill or repel various Feijoa pests like aphids,whiteflies,mealybugs and caterpillars.These oils also have antifungal properties against powdery mildewand botrytis -two common fungal diseases affecting Feijoa.
Allium family – Companion plants like garlic,chives,leeks and onions release sulfur compounds that are offensive to many insects affecting Feijoa.The strong odor deters soft-bodied insects like leafhoppers,thrips,aphids,and mealybugs.Alliums also help prevent damping offand root rot fungal diseases.
In summary, many strong-smelling herbs and aromatic flowerssuch as marigolds, thyme and basilar effective feijoa companion plants for their pest-repelling and disease-inhibiting characteristics.Organic solutions should be prioritized over pesticides when protecting Feijoa plants from pests and diseases using companion planting strategies.
Avoid These 3 Plants as Feijoa Companions
While most plants make suitable feijoa companion plants, some common garden plants should be avoided. Citrus trees, cucurbits and potatoes have characteristics that make them inappropriate companions for Feijoa.
Citrus trees – Despite having similar pH preferences to Feijoa,citrus trees compete heavily for water and nutrients.Their deep root systems can severely stress Feijoa. Citrus trees and Feijoa may also share citrus nematodes and fungal diseases like melanose.
Cucurbits – Cucurbits like cucumbers, melons and pumpkins have higher water needs than Feijoa.They inhibit Feijoa growth through competition for moisture. Plus,cucurbits tend to attract squash bugs and cucumber beetles that may then move to Feijoa plants.
Potatoes – Potatoes prefer cooler,wetter soils compared to Feijoa. When planted near Feijoa,potatoes exhaust moisture and nutrients. Potato plants also release solaninealkaloids from leaves that inhibit the growth of nearby plants like Feijoa.
In summary,avoid citrus trees,cucurbits and potatoes as companion plants for Feijoa due to:
- Competition for water and nutrients
- Shared pests and diseases
- Physical and chemical inhibition
It’s best to maintain at least 1-2 meter buffer zones between Feijoa plants and potential incompatible companions like citrus, cucurbits and potatoes.If attempting intercropping, stagger plantings to avoid overcrowding and resource stress for Feijoa.
Tips for Successful Feijoa Companion Planting
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when companion planting with feijoa companion plants to optimize benefits and minimize issues:
Start small – Initially plant only 1-3 companion species among your Feijoa plants. This allows you to observe their effects carefully before expanding.
Stagger plantings – Space out companion plantings over successive years to avoid overcrowding Feijoa.Monitor growth habits to ensure plants don’t compete for light,water and nutrients.
Adjust as needed – Continue observing the impact of companion plants on Feijoa’s growth,pest levels and productivity. Make adjustments as necessary over time based on results.
Maintain air circulation – Ensure adequate airflow between Feijoa and companion plants to reduce humidity levels. This hinders the spread of fungal diseases both plants may be susceptible to.
Keep soil fertile – Add compost or organic fertilizers regularly to supplement nutrients accessed by deep-rooted companion plants. Feijoa needs fertile soil conditions to maximizewater and nutrient uptake for optimal productivity.
Replace companions – Replace underperforming or incompatible companion plants with better suited alternatives that provide clear benefits for Feijoa based on growth and pest criteria.
Insummary, when using companion planting techniques for Feijoa, take a methodical approach by making smallchanges, monitoring closely and adjusting as needed over several seasonsfor the greatest impact on pest management and productivity. Following theserecommendations will allow you to develop an optimal mix of feijoa companion plants tailored specifically for your growing conditions.
More Helpful Guide
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Frequently Asked Question
Can you juice feijoas?
Yes, you can juice feijoas. Combine with sweeter fruits like pineapple or orange. Strain pulp if desired.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
Can you juice feijoas?
Yes, you can juice feijoas. Combine with sweeter fruits like pineapple or orange. Strain pulp if desired.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
Are feijoa trees cold hardy?
Feijoa trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 to 15°F when mature, so they can handle cooler climates.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
What does a feijoa taste like?
The flesh of the feijoa is whitish translucent, juicy, and gritty soft. The flavor is sweet and tart with hints of guava and pineapple. The seeds in the center are edible.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
What does a feijoa taste like?
The flesh of the feijoa is whitish translucent, juicy, and gritty soft. The flavor is sweet and tart with hints of guava and pineapple. The seeds in the center are edible.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
How do you preserve feijoas by freezing or drying?
Freeze feijoa pulp in airtight containers for 6-12 months. Dehydrate slices in a food dehydrator or low oven until chewy.
What climate is best for growing feijoas?
Feijoas grow best in zones 8-11 with moderate humidity and evenly distributed rainfall. They need at least 200 chill hours in winter.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
What recipes can you make with feijoas?
Feijoas can be used in smoothies, juices, jams, jellies, chutneys, pies, cakes, ice cream and other desserts.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
What’s the shelf life of fresh feijoas?
Fresh feijoas will last about 5-7 days at room temperature. Refrigerate in plastic bag to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
How do you prepare feijoa for cooking and baking?
To cook feijoa, simply halve and scoop out flesh. Puree cooked fruit for sauces, chutneys or bake into tarts, muffins or cakes.
How do you store fresh feijoas?
Store fresh feijoas loosely wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator crisper drawer. They will keep for 1-2 weeks.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
What is a feijoa?
The feijoa is a small oval shaped fruit native to South America. It has a sweet, aromatic flavor reminiscent of pineapple, guava, and strawberry.
How do you tell if a feijoa is ripe?
Ripe feijoas give slightly when pressed gently. They will be aromatic and show some yellowing. Avoid any overly soft or bruised fruit.
When is feijoa fruit ready to harvest?
Feijoa fruit are ready for harvest when they feel slightly soft and drop to the ground when lightly shaken. Harvest time is late summer into fall.
What’s the shelf life of fresh feijoas?
Fresh feijoas will last about 5-7 days at room temperature. Refrigerate in plastic bag to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
Are feijoa trees cold hardy?
Feijoa trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 to 15°F when mature, so they can handle cooler climates.
What does a feijoa taste like?
The flesh of the feijoa is whitish translucent, juicy, and gritty soft. The flavor is sweet and tart with hints of guava and pineapple. The seeds in the center are edible.
How do you prepare feijoa for cooking and baking?
To cook feijoa, simply halve and scoop out flesh. Puree cooked fruit for sauces, chutneys or bake into tarts, muffins or cakes.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
When is feijoa fruit ready to harvest?
Feijoa fruit are ready for harvest when they feel slightly soft and drop to the ground when lightly shaken. Harvest time is late summer into fall.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
How do you preserve feijoas by freezing or drying?
Freeze feijoa pulp in airtight containers for 6-12 months. Dehydrate slices in a food dehydrator or low oven until chewy.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
How do you prepare feijoa for cooking and baking?
To cook feijoa, simply halve and scoop out flesh. Puree cooked fruit for sauces, chutneys or bake into tarts, muffins or cakes.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
What climate is best for growing feijoas?
Feijoas grow best in zones 8-11 with moderate humidity and evenly distributed rainfall. They need at least 200 chill hours in winter.
What is the proper way to harvest feijoa fruit?
Pick feijoas by hand, twist and pull to separate from fruit stem cleanly. Take care not to bruise the delicate fruit.
What’s the shelf life of fresh feijoas?
Fresh feijoas will last about 5-7 days at room temperature. Refrigerate in plastic bag to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
What is a feijoa?
The feijoa is a small oval shaped fruit native to South America. It has a sweet, aromatic flavor reminiscent of pineapple, guava, and strawberry.
Are feijoa trees cold hardy?
Feijoa trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 to 15°F when mature, so they can handle cooler climates.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
What does a feijoa taste like?
The flesh of the feijoa is whitish translucent, juicy, and gritty soft. The flavor is sweet and tart with hints of guava and pineapple. The seeds in the center are edible.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
What is a feijoa?
The feijoa is a small oval shaped fruit native to South America. It has a sweet, aromatic flavor reminiscent of pineapple, guava, and strawberry.
How do you plant and grow a feijoa tree?
Plant feijoa trees in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Space them 15-20 feet apart. Fertilize in spring and water regularly for the first 2 years until established.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
What recipes can you make with feijoas?
Feijoas can be used in smoothies, juices, jams, jellies, chutneys, pies, cakes, ice cream and other desserts.
What’s the best way to eat a fresh feijoa?
Cut a feijoa in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Optionally add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. Enjoy the sweet, aromatic taste.
How do you tell if a feijoa is ripe?
Ripe feijoas give slightly when pressed gently. They will be aromatic and show some yellowing. Avoid any overly soft or bruised fruit.
How do you store fresh feijoas?
Store fresh feijoas loosely wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator crisper drawer. They will keep for 1-2 weeks.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
What’s the shelf life of fresh feijoas?
Fresh feijoas will last about 5-7 days at room temperature. Refrigerate in plastic bag to extend shelf life up to 2 weeks.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
How do you prepare feijoa for cooking and baking?
To cook feijoa, simply halve and scoop out flesh. Puree cooked fruit for sauces, chutneys or bake into tarts, muffins or cakes.
What climate is best for growing feijoas?
Feijoas grow best in zones 8-11 with moderate humidity and evenly distributed rainfall. They need at least 200 chill hours in winter.
What’s the best way to eat a fresh feijoa?
Cut a feijoa in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Optionally add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. Enjoy the sweet, aromatic taste.
Are feijoa trees cold hardy?
Feijoa trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 to 15°F when mature, so they can handle cooler climates.
How long does it take for a feijoa tree to bear fruit?
It takes roughly 3-5 years for feijoa trees to start bearing fruit significantly. The fruiting season is fall.
What nutrients and benefits are in feijoa fruit?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals like potassium. They may help boost immunity and digestion.
When is feijoa fruit ready to harvest?
Feijoa fruit are ready for harvest when they feel slightly soft and drop to the ground when lightly shaken. Harvest time is late summer into fall.
Where do feijoa trees originate from?
Feijoa trees originated in regions of South America including southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina. They thrive in areas with cool winters and hot summers.
How do you tell if a feijoa is ripe?
Ripe feijoas give slightly when pressed gently. They will be aromatic and show some yellowing. Avoid any overly soft or bruised fruit.
Can feijoa trees be grown as container plants?
Yes, feijoa trees can be grown in containers. Use a large pot, provide good drainage and bring indoors if cold. Limit size with pruning.
Can you eat feijoa fruit raw?
Yes, feijoas can be eaten raw right off the tree. They are delicious fresh.
