Companion planting is a term that alludes to so many different ideas; whether planting specifically for the purpose of controlling (or confusing pests), bringing in good bugs, or the likelihood of one or more plants benefiting from the other’s presence. But I also enjoy the haphazard benefits that can arise from a loosely planted garden. 

These self-seeded amaranth leaves have covered the soil in a thick carpet around my emerging zucchini seedlings, preventing real weeds, as well as providing an edible micro-crop.  

This bunch, with their pretty reddish/purple undersides, were sprinkled on top of those lovely new potatoes at Friday’s lunch – absolute heaven!