Greenhouse producers honestly admit that they hate this method of obtaining a bountiful harvest, while experienced gardeners willingly use it and save their hard-earned money.
If you want to join their ranks, plant marigolds between rows of potatoes or tomatoes.
Their roots secrete thiophenes, substances that paralyze nematodes and Colorado beetles. Marigolds act as a living insecticide, protecting crops without chemicals.
Choose low-growing varieties, such as 'Mandarin' or 'Lemon Jam', so they don't shade the main crops.
The second technique is the "green screen". Plant corn or sunflowers along the beds.
Tall plants create a microclimate, reducing moisture evaporation and protecting from the wind. Tomatoes ripen 10 days earlier in such conditions.
To enhance the effect, plant basil next to peppers - its essential oils repel aphids.
The third secret is watering at night with ice water. Yes, it sounds crazy, but the cold shock strengthens the plant cells.
After 3 such waterings in July, peppers and eggplants become invulnerable to drought.
The water temperature should not be lower than +10°C, so as not to damage the roots. Water strictly under the root after sunset.
The method is based on the principle of hardening: plants produce stress proteins, increasing their resistance to extreme conditions.
An added bonus is that cold water slows down weed growth.
Author: Elena Shimanovskaya