What Can I Plant with Collard Greens? 6 Best Companion Plants

Collard greens are a staple in many gardens across the United States. They are a nutritious and delicious leafy green that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But what can I plant with collard greens to ensure their success?

Companion planting is an excellent way to maximize your garden’s potential, and planting the right crops alongside collard greens can help improve their growth and yield.

Companion planting involves planting two or more crops together to benefit each other in some way. Some plants can help repel pests, while others can improve soil quality or provide shade.

When it comes to collard greens, there are several plants that make excellent companions. Some of the best companion plants for collard greens include thyme, rosemary, oregano, and marjoram. These herbs can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies.

Key Takeaways

• Companion planting can help improve the growth and yield of collard greens.
• Thyme, rosemary, oregano, and marjoram make excellent companion plants for collard greens.
• Companion planting can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects to your garden.

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Understanding Collard Greens

Collard Greens, also known by their botanical name Brassica oleracea, are a member of the Brassicaceae family, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. They are a cool-season crop that is popular in the Southern United States due to their ability to thrive in hot and humid conditions.

Collard greens are a leafy green vegetable that are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They have a slightly bitter taste and a chewy texture, which makes them a great addition to soups, stews, and stir-fries.

Collard greens are easy to grow and care for, making them a popular choice for home gardeners. They prefer fertile, well-drained soil and a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. Collard greens require regular watering and can benefit from fertilization with a balanced fertilizer.

When planting collard greens, it’s important to consider companion planting. Good companion plants for collard greens include mugwort, thyme, rosemary, oregano, marjoram, mint, catnip, southernwood, chamomile, garlic, potatoes, onions, hyssop, and dill.

In contrast, it’s best to avoid planting cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes, strawberries, leeks, kohlrabi, or melons next to your collard greens, as they can attract pests and diseases that can harm your collard greens.

Ideal Conditions for Growing Collard Greens

Collard greens are a cool-season vegetable that can be grown in a variety of conditions. However, to ensure the best possible yield, it is important to provide the ideal growing conditions. Below are the factors that should be considered when growing collard greens:

1. Temperature and Hardiness Zones

Collard greens are a hardy vegetable that can withstand cold temperatures. They grow best in temperatures between 60°F and 65°F. They can also tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F. Collard greens are typically grown in USDA hardiness zones 6-10.

2. Soil

Collard greens prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. If the soil is too acidic, add lime to raise the pH. If the soil is too alkaline, add sulfur to lower the pH.

3. Sunlight

Collard greens require full sun to grow properly. They should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, they can also tolerate partial shade.

4. Watering

Collard greens require consistent watering to grow properly. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Watering once or twice a week is usually sufficient. During times of drought, they may require more frequent watering.

5. Companion Plants

Collard greens can be planted with a variety of companion plants. Good companion plants for collard greens include mugwort, thyme, rosemary, oregano, marjoram, mint, catnip, southernwood, chamomile, garlic, potatoes, onions, hyssop, and dill.

Avoid planting cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflowers, tomatoes, strawberries, leeks, kohlrabi, or melons next to your collard greens.

By providing the ideal growing conditions, collard greens can be a productive and easy-to-grow addition to any garden.

Choosing the Right Varieties

When it comes to planting collard greens, choosing the right varieties is crucial to ensure a bountiful harvest. There are many different types of collard greens available, and each has its own unique characteristics that make it suitable for specific growing conditions and purposes.

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting collard greens varieties is their size. Some collard greens varieties, such as the Georgia Southern and Vates varieties, are known for their large leaves, making them an excellent choice for those looking to grow collard greens for cooking or preserving.

Other varieties, such as the Champion and Morris Heading types, are known for their bolt-resistant properties, which make them ideal for growers in warmer climates. These varieties are also relatively quick to mature, making them a great choice for those looking to get a quick harvest.

Hybrid varieties, such as the Flash and Northern types, are also available and offer a unique blend of characteristics from different parent plants. These varieties are often bred to be disease-resistant and can be a great choice for those looking to grow collard greens in challenging growing conditions.

Finally, heirloom varieties, such as the ‘Vates’ and ‘Morris Heading’ types, are also available and offer a unique taste and texture that is often prized by gardeners and cooks alike.

Planting and Transplanting Techniques

Collard greens can be planted directly from seeds or transplanted from seedlings. When planting from seeds, they should be sown outdoors about two weeks before the last spring frost date or indoors four to six weeks earlier.

The seedlings can then be transplanted right around the last frost date. Collard greens can also be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.

When planting collard greens, it is important to choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The soil should be fertile and slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Collard greens prefer loamy soil but also do well in sandy soil that is rich in organic matter.

Spacing is important when planting collard greens. Seeds should be sown about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and 2 to 4 inches apart. Once the seedlings sprout, they should be thinned out to about 18 to 24 inches apart. If transplanting, seedlings should be spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart.

When transplanting collard green seedlings, it is important to prepare the soil beforehand. Work the soil in the bed area where you want the collards to go to loosen it once outdoor temperatures reach a low of 45 degrees Fahrenheit with the soil is holding above 50 degrees.

Add a few inches of compost or well-rotted manure to the bed and mix it in with the soil to fertilize it.

Transplanting should be done in the early spring or late summer. The seedlings should be planted at the same depth as they were in their containers and watered immediately after planting. Collard greens should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilized every four to six weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Soil and Fertilizer Requirements

Collard greens prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, it is recommended to amend the soil with compost, which can improve soil structure and fertility. Adding compost can also increase the soil’s ability to hold moisture, which is important for collard greens to thrive.

Collard greens require a steady supply of calcium to prevent diseases such as blossom end rot. If the soil is lacking in calcium, it is recommended to add gypsum or lime to the soil before planting. It is important to note that adding too much lime can raise the soil’s pH, which can negatively affect plant growth.

Mulching around collard greens can help conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches, such as straw or shredded leaves, can also add nutrients to the soil as they decompose.

Collard greens require a steady supply of nitrogen, which is important for leafy growth. It is recommended to fertilize collard greens with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 fertilizer, at planting and every four to six weeks thereafter. Over-fertilizing collard greens can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flavor.

In addition to fertilizing, it is important to monitor the soil’s nutrient levels throughout the growing season. A soil test can help determine if additional nutrients are needed.

If the soil is lacking in a specific nutrient, such as phosphorus or potassium, it is recommended to use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated to address that deficiency.

Watering and Irrigation Methods

Collard greens require consistent moisture to grow and thrive. Proper watering and irrigation methods are essential to ensure that the plants receive the right amount of water without drowning or drying out.

Watering Frequency

Watering frequency depends on various factors such as weather conditions, soil type, and plant age. In general, collard greens need to be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather. During hot and dry weather, the plants may require more frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out.

Irrigation Methods

There are several irrigation methods that can be used to water collard greens. The most common methods are:

1. Drip Irrigation: This method involves using a hose with tiny holes or emitters to deliver water directly to the base of the plant. Drip irrigation is efficient and helps to conserve water by reducing evaporation and runoff.
   
2. Sprinkler Irrigation: This method involves using a sprinkler system to deliver water over a large area. Sprinkler irrigation is ideal for larger gardens or farms and is best used during cooler parts of the day to reduce water loss through evaporation.
   
3. Hand Watering: This method involves using a watering can or hose to deliver water directly to the base of the plant. Hand watering is ideal for small gardens or container-grown collard greens.
   

Watering Tips

To ensure that collard greens receive the right amount of water, it is important to follow these watering tips:

1. Water in the morning: Watering in the morning allows the plants to absorb moisture before the heat of the day sets in. This helps to reduce water loss through evaporation.
   
2. Water deeply: Collard greens have deep roots, so it is important to water deeply to ensure that the water reaches the roots.
   
3. Avoid overhead watering: Overhead watering can cause the leaves to become wet, which can lead to fungal diseases. Watering at the base of the plant is best.
   
4. Mulch: Adding a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant can help to retain moisture in the soil and reduce water loss through evaporation.
   

By following these watering and irrigation methods, gardeners can ensure that their collard greens receive the right amount of water to grow and thrive.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Collard greens are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, which can greatly affect their growth and yield. It is important to take preventative measures to avoid these issues, as well as to identify and address any problems as soon as they arise.

Pests

Common pests that can affect collard greens include flea beetles, cabbageworms, and cabbage loopers. Flea beetles are small insects that can cause small holes in the leaves of collard greens. Cabbageworms and cabbage loopers are both types of caterpillars that can cause significant damage to the leaves of collard greens.

To prevent infestations, it is important to keep the area around collard greens clean and free of debris, as well as to rotate crops regularly. Companion planting with herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and mint can also help to deter pests.

If an infestation does occur, there are several organic pest control methods that can be used. These include using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or diatomaceous earth. It is important to follow the instructions carefully when using these methods to avoid damaging the collard greens.

Diseases

Collard greens can be affected by a variety of diseases, including fungal diseases such as downy mildew and clubroot. Downy mildew is a common disease that can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, while clubroot can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.

To prevent these diseases, it is important to keep the area around collard greens clean and free of debris, as well as to rotate crops regularly. It is also important to avoid overwatering, as this can create conditions that are favorable for the growth of fungal diseases.

If a disease does occur, there are several organic methods that can be used to control it. These include using copper fungicides, sulfur dust, or compost tea. It is important to follow the instructions carefully when using these methods to avoid damaging the collard greens.

What Can I Plant with Collard Greens

Collard greens are a popular and nutritious vegetable that can be grown in a variety of climates. Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves planting different crops together to improve their growth and health.

When it comes to companion planting with collard greens, there are several plants that can help enhance their growth and repel pests.

Companion Plants for Collard Greens

Here are some of the best companion plants for collard greens:

1. Onions and Garlic: These plants are great for repelling pests that can damage collard greens, such as aphids and cabbage worms.
2. Broccoli and Cauliflower: These plants are in the same family as collard greens, and they share similar nutrient needs. They can also help attract beneficial insects to the garden.
3. Potatoes: Potatoes can help improve the soil quality around collard greens and provide them with essential nutrients.
4. Dill and Chamomile: These plants can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects to the garden.
5. Rosemary and Thyme: These herbs can help improve the flavor of collard greens and provide them with essential nutrients.
6. Mint: Mint can help repel pests and attract pollinators to the garden.

Plants to Avoid Planting with Collard Greens

Here are some plants to avoid planting with collard greens:

1. Strawberries and Tomatoes: These plants are susceptible to the same pests as collard greens, which can lead to an infestation in the garden.
2. Smooth and Kohlrabi: These plants are in the same family as collard greens and can attract the same pests.
3. Melons: Melons have a high water content, which can cause the soil around collard greens to become too moist and lead to root rot.

Harvesting and Storing Collard Greens

Collard greens are ready for harvest 75 to 85 days from transplants, and 85 to 95 days from seed. The leaves are ready for picking as soon as they reach usable size, which is typically less than 10 inches long and dark green. Older leaves will be tough and stringy, so it is best to harvest them when they are young.

To harvest collard greens, use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the outer leaves from the bottom of the plant, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. It is important not to cut the growing tip of the plant, as this will prevent further growth.

Collard greens can be stored for up to a week in the refrigerator. To store them, wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel or cloth and place them in a plastic bag. Alternatively, you can blanch and freeze collard greens for long-term storage.

To freeze collard greens, first wash and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Then, blanch the leaves in boiling water for two to three minutes and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Drain the leaves and pack them into freezer-safe bags or containers. Collard greens can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.

It is important to note that collard greens are typically harvested in early fall before the first frost. After the first frost, the leaves will become bitter and tough. To maximize yield, it is recommended to harvest collard greens before the first frost.

Nutritional Benefits of Collard Greens

Collard greens are a highly nutritious leafy vegetable that can be grown in cooler weather. They are a member of the cabbage family and are often used in Southern cuisine. Collard greens are a great source of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any diet.

One of the key nutrients found in collard greens is manganese. Manganese is important for bone health and helps the body metabolize carbohydrates and fats. Just one cup of boiled collard greens contains about 0.5 milligrams of manganese, which is about 25% of the daily recommended intake.

Collard greens are also a good source of vitamin A, which is important for eye health, and vitamin C, which is important for immune system function. In fact, one cup of boiled collard greens contains about 50% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C.

In addition to vitamins and minerals, collard greens also contain antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from free radicals. These antioxidants may help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Collard greens can be eaten cooked or raw. When cooking collard greens, it is common to boil them in broth or water. This helps to soften the leaves and remove any bitterness.

To prepare collard greens, remove the tough stem from the center of each leaf and discard. Then, chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces and boil for about 10-15 minutes until tender.

Frequently Asked Questions