How to intercrop the carrot

How to intercrop the carrot

The carrot (Daucus carota L., 1753) is a herbaceous plant of the Apiaceae family.
It is one of the most cultivated vegetables and is a plant that also grows spontaneously in Europe, Asia and North Africa. There are many different cultivars that are cultivated in all temperate areas of the globe.
In its spontaneous state it is considered a weed, however this consideration is subordinated to the specialization of agricultural cultivation systems which have relegated many plants to the role of invasive which, instead, could be associated and cultivated with greater success.
The carrot benefits from a series of advantages when grown together with other plants; among these we remember: Onions, Radishes, Peas, Chicory, Tomatoes, Leeks, Garlic, Lettuce, Peas, Basil, or with Sage and Rosemary. However, it should not be grown near dill which contributes to the same needs as carrots and therefore becomes antagonistic.
The intercropping of carrots with other plants is carried out due to various agronomic and phytopathological factors; companion plants can help repel pests, improve soil and provide nutrients. Here are some frequent associations:
1. Onion and garlic: They can keep away some carrot pests, such as flying carrots.
2. Celery: Celery can improve the growth of carrots and keep carrot flies away.
3. Leeks: They can keep some pests away and improve the taste of carrots.
4. Peas: They can improve soil by providing nitrogen and help keep pests away.
5. Tomatoes: They can repel some pests and help retain soil moisture.
6. Basil: It can improve the taste of carrots and repel some pests.
7. Sage: Can help repel mosquitoes and some carrot pests.
However, keep in mind that the plants to be combined must always have very similar pedoclimatic compatibility.