What does companion planting mean?

Companion planting refers to the practice of growing different plants together in a way that benefits one or both of them. This can include enhancing growth, deterring pests, attracting beneficial insects, or improving soil health. For example, planting marigolds alongside vegetables can repel harmful insects, while beans can enrich the soil with nitrogen when planted with corn. This technique is often used in sustainable gardening and permaculture to create a more resilient ecosystem.