As spring takes hold, keen gardeners are heading outdoors to prepare their vegetable patches for the warmer months ahead. However, according to ecological horticulture expert Jamie Walton, many novice gardeners are making a common mistake that could hinder their vegetable yield.

“The biggest mistake I made when I first started growing vegetables was undervaluing the importance of flowers,” Jamie said in a recent TikTok video. “I see so many people doing the same thing, but once I started planting flowers alongside my vegetables, I noticed so many benefits.”

Jamie advocates for companion planting, a technique where flowers and vegetables are grown together to create a more balanced ecosystem. Certain flowers attract pollinators and predatory insects, which help control pests and boost crop production.

By planting flowers alongside vegetables, gardeners can encourage beneficial insects such as ladybirds, which naturally control aphids and other harmful pests. Additionally, flowers attract bees and butterflies, improving pollination and ultimately leading to bigger and healthier harvests.

“You don’t have to do much, just planting a few flowers near your vegetables can make a huge difference,” Jamie said.

Here are some flowers he recommends.

Nasturtiums
These vibrant flowers are more than just decorative, they serve as a natural pest deterrent. Jamie recommends planting nasturtiums near brassicas and beans, as they attract cabbage white butterflies and blackflies away from edible crops.

Marigolds
A favourite among gardeners, marigolds help repel whiteflies, particularly when planted near tomatoes and cucumbers. According to Gardeners’ World, marigolds should be planted after the risk of frost has passed to ensure healthy growth.

Tansy
Tansy is another flower that can benefit a vegetable garden by attracting predatory insects like ladybirds. However, Jamie warns that it should be handled with care, as it is toxic to pets and can cause skin irritation.

Jamie shared his favourite flower choices for companion planting, including calendula, borage, and violas, which not only support vegetable growth but also add colour and charm to any garden.

“A few of my favourites are nasturtiums, calendula, marigolds, borage, and violas. And, of course, they also help lift your mood by adding so much beauty to any space!” he said.

For gardeners looking to maximise their vegetable yields this year, embracing flowers as an essential part of the planting process may be the key to a more abundant and thriving garden.