Bees are drawn to tube-shaped flowers such as snapdragon, baptisia, and bee balm, according to certified master gardener Mary Jane Duford. "Attracting bumblebees to the area is helpful for pepper plant pollination because the large bees can also land on pepper flowers and jostle them to release pollen," she explains.
These vivid flowers really keep nematodes out of the soil. Alpha-terthienyl, a substance released by marigold roots, is poisonous to nematodes, especially root-knot nematodes. "Planting marigolds as a cover crop at least two months before the main crop can significantly reduce nematode populations in the soil," Duford explains.
Planting common alliums like garlic, onions, scallions, or chives have several benefits. First, each of these plants helps repel pests like aphids. Chives, in particular, repel aphids and help to enhance the flavor of pepper plants.
Legumes called cowpeas are produced in pods by climbing or trailing vines. Planting cowpeas beside your peppers has many advantages. "Cowpeas capture nitrogen that the pepper crops can use.
Though some may consider white clover to be a weed, who says weeds aren't beneficial? Think about placing white clover next your pepper plants. "White clover adds nitrogen and improves soil structure," explains Duford. "Opt for shorter 'Dutch White' or 'New Zealand White' to avoid competition for light."
Because of their deep roots, carrots can aid in aerating and loosening the soil around pepper plants. Ladybugs and lacewings, among other useful insects, can be drawn to carrots.
Soil is best kept dark and damp by planting spinach. "Spinach grows low and provides ground cover, retaining moisture and keeping the soil cool for moisture retention," Duford states.
Similar to spinach, oregano grows low to the ground, giving the soil cover. Its aromatic scent not only covers the ground but deters pests and draws beneficial insects.