At Rare Dragon Fruit we use companion plants on a dragon fruit farm supports a more balanced and sustainable ecosystem.

Here’s why companion planting is beneficial:

1. Pest Control: Certain companion plants naturally repel pests, which reduces the need for chemical pesticides. For instance, plants like marigolds are known for repelling nematodes, while basil can help deter insects like thrips. This aligns well with your farm’s commitment to minimal pesticide use.

2. Soil Health: Companion plants can improve soil quality by adding nutrients or enhancing soil structure. Legumes, for example, fix nitrogen in the soil, which can benefit dragon fruit plants that need a nutrient-rich environment. Other plants can help break up compacted soil or add organic matter when they decompose.

3. Pollinator Attraction: Flowers from companion plants attract pollinators like bees, which are crucial for dragon fruit pollination. This helps increase fruit yield and ensures good fruit quality.

4. Moisture Retention and Ground Cover: Low-growing plants act as living mulch, reducing evaporation and helping retain moisture in the soil. They also protect the soil from erosion and weed growth, which can compete with dragon fruit for resources.

5. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Balance: Companion plants encourage biodiversity, which helps maintain a healthy ecosystem with fewer pest outbreaks. A polyculture setup makes the farm more resilient to diseases and weather changes, supporting a stable growing environment.

By integrating companion plants, your dragon fruit farm can enjoy these benefits while supporting your commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

Here is a list of our favorite companion plants to use with dragon fruit.