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Ultimate Companion Planting Chart for 2024 Based on Evidence, Recent Research and Actual Experience

By Calin Oancea and Dr. Helga George

5/30/202419 min read

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves growing different plants in close together to benefit each other in various ways.

It can enhance growth, deter pests, and improve soil health, creating a symbiotic relationship that leads to healthier and more productive gardens.

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multiple plants and flowers thriving tohether in a large bed
multiple plants and flowers thriving tohether in a large bed
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green design
dark green design
dark green design
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green design
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Green Box
Green Box

In this no-fluff and super actionable article we will explore the benefits of specific companion planting combinations, 3 different charts that show exactly which plants fit well together, and a bunch of important information you as a gardener need to know, backed by scientific studies and our practical observations.

Here are 6 most common companions:

  1. Lettuce with peas

  2. Carrots with rosemary

  3. Broccoli with celery

  4. Marigolds with peppers

  5. Blueberries with strawberries

What Exactly is Companion Planting?

Companion planting involves strategically planting different plants, fruits, flowers and vegetables together so that the plants benefit from each other to create a beneficial relationship.

Certain plants can enhance the growth of others through various mechanisms such as pest control, improved nutrient uptake, and better pollination.

For example, research published in the Journal of Chemical Ecology has shown that certain plants release chemicals through their roots or foliage that can repel pests or attract beneficial insects. (1) These natural chemicals, known as allelochemicals, can significantly reduce pest populations without the need for synthetic pesticides. (2)

Benefits of Planting Vegetables, Fruits and Flowers Together

One of the primary benefits of companion planting is natural pest control. For instance, marigolds are known to secrete a substance called thiophene, which has been proven to deter nematodes and other soil-borne pests. A study from the American Society for Horticultural Science confirmed that marigolds planted among vegetable crops reduced nematode damage by up to 90%.

Similarly, basil has been shown to repel whiteflies, mosquitoes, and spider mites, enhancing the growth and health of nearby plants no matter whether container plants or other herbal plants.

Companion planting also improves soil health and nutrient uptake. Leguminous plants are well-known for their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, making it available for other plants. This symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria benefits crops like corn and spinach, which have high nitrogen requirements.

Enhancing pollination and biodiversity is another key benefit. Planting flowers among vegetable crops attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Research published in the Journal of Applied Ecology found that gardens with diverse plantings had significantly higher pollinator activity, which directly correlated with increased fruit set and yield. (1) Additionally, these flowers can attract predatory insects that help control pest populations.

Companion Planting Chart for Plants and Veggies to Plant in 2024

Here is the great companion planting chart that features the most common plants and vegetables, their companions, and why they work in all types of gardening conditions based on recent studies, our first-hand gardening experience, and other highly trusted resources:

Garlic and onions protect beets from borers and cutworms with their strong aroma. Brassicas and bush beans help manage pests and improve soil quality, while lettuce provides ground cover to retain moisture.

a bunch of flowers, bushes and perennials as companions in our garden
a bunch of flowers, bushes and perennials as companions in our garden
green design
green design

The Science Behind Companion Planting

Companion planting is rooted in ecological science, no matter whether you plant annuals or herbs together. Certain plants produce chemicals that can either attract beneficial insects or repel harmful pests. Intercropping systems can reduce pest incidence by up to 50%, primarily due to these biochemical interactions.

Moreover, after planting and growing hundreds of plants together we experienced that plants like vegetables engage in symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, enriching the soil for nearby plants, like already said before, remember?

5 Companion Gardening Tips From Our Specialists

1. Know Your Plant's Needs

Understanding the specific requirements of each plant, including soil type, water needs, and sunlight preferences is based on our experience always the best, this also applies to caring for your garden plants or perennials and growing your own herbs from seeds.

2. Plant A Wide Array of Plants

Create a biodiverse garden to reduce pest infestation and improve pollination like it happened in our garden.

3. Rotation and Planning

Ideally, rotate your crops yearly to prevent soil depletion and reduce disease risk.

4. Use Living Mulch (Ground Cover Plants) for Empty Spaces

Use ground-cover plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds naturally.

5. Observe and Adjust

Regularly monitor plant health and pest activity, and adjust your plant combinations as needed.

a  garden full of companion plants planted next to each other
a  garden full of companion plants planted next to each other
  • Garlic

  • Onions

  • Brassicas

  • Bush Beans

  • Lettuce

Beets

Plant

Best Companions

Why It Works

Beetroot
Beetroot
Peas
Peas
Radicchio
Radicchio
Eggplant
Eggplant

Eggplant

Lettuce

Peas

Radicchio

  • Marigolds

  • Beans

  • Peppers

  • Basil

  • Tomatoes

Marigolds deter nematodes and other soil pests, protecting eggplant roots. Peppers share similar growing conditions, and basil repels pests while attracting pollinators.

Beets add minerals to the soil, improving the growth of radicchio. Endive helps deter pests. Carrots help aerate the soil, lettuce provides ground cover to retain moisture, and onions deter pests with their strong aroma.

Alyssum attracts beneficial insects, and mint improves health and flavor. Carrots aerate the soil, chives deter aphids, and lettuce provides ground cover.

  • Chives

  • Radishes

  • Onions

  • Oregano

  • Peas

  • Beets

  • Endive

  • Carrots

  • Lettuce

  • Onions

  • Alyssum

  • Mint

  • Carrot

  • Chives

  • Lettuce

  • Celery

  • Nasturtiums

  • Dill

  • Hyssop

  • Beans

  • Strawberries

  • Peas

  • Beans

  • Cilantro

  • Eggplant

  • Peppers

  • Basil

  • Cucumbers

  • Nasturtiums

  • Marigolds

  • Garlic

  • Sage

  • Dill

  • Hyssop

  • Marigolds

  • Calendula

  • Petunias

  • Tomatoes

  • Basil

  • Marigolds

  • Marigolds

  • Radishes

  • Beans

  • Peas

  • Nasturtiums

  • Chives

  • Leeks

  • Rosemary

  • Sage

  • Peas

Cabbage
Cabbage
Okra
Okra
Cauliflower
Cauliflower
Lettuce
Lettuce
Watermelon
Watermelon
Carrots
Carrots
Aspargus
Aspargus
Spinach
Spinach

Peppers share similar growing conditions, and basil repels pests while attracting pollinators. Cucumbers provide shade, and nasturtiums and marigolds protect against pests, enhancing okra growth.

Calendula, petunias, and tomatoes deter asparagus beetles, while basil repels pests and attracts pollinators. Marigolds deter nematodes.

Celery improves soil structure, and nasturtiums deter pests. Dill attracts beneficial insects, hyssop repels cabbage moths, and beans fix nitrogen in the soil.

Chives deter aphids, and radishes act as a trap crop for flea beetles. Onions mask the scent to deter pests, oregano provides general pest protection, and peas enrich the soil with nitrogen.

Garlic repels pests with its odor, and sage deters cabbage moths. Dill attracts beneficial insects, hyssop enhances cabbage health, and marigolds deter nematodes and other pests.

Chives improve growth and deter pests, and leeks repel flying insects. Rosemary and sage deter carrot flies, and peas enrich the soil with nitrogen.

Marigolds deter nematodes, and radishes repel cucumber beetles. Beans fix nitrogen, peas improve soil structure, and nasturtiums deter bad insects.

We saw that strawberries provide ground cover, and peas and beans fix nitrogen. Cilantro repels pests, and eggplant provides shade.

Okra

Radishes

Carrots

Cabbage

Cauliflower

Broccoli

Asparagus

Spinach

Sweet Potatoes

Swiss Chard

Peppers

Watermelon

Peppers
Peppers
Winter Squash
Winter Squash
Tomatoes
Tomatoes
Broccoli
Broccoli
Swiss Chard
Swiss Chard
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
Radishes
Radishes

We experienced that basil repels whiteflies and attracts pollinators, and oregano and marjoram have protective qualities. Onions and garlic repel pests with their strong aroma.

Parsley improves the growth and flavor of tomatoes, attracts beneficial insects to roses, onions deter pests, beans and peas fix nitrogen, and garlic repels pests with its strong aroma, promoting parsley health.

Beans fix nitrogen, and alyssum attracts beneficial insects. Corn provides shade, marigolds deter nematodes, and radishes repel pests.

Nasturtiums deter squash beetles, oregano provides general pest protection, beans fix nitrogen, marigolds deter nematodes, and buckwheat attracts beneficial insects, enhancing winter squash growth and health.

Basil repels whiteflies and attracts bees, and borage repels hornworms. Calendula deters garden pests, dill supports parasitic wasps, and garlic repels pests with its strong aroma.

Oregano has insecticidal properties, and planting with other brassicas allows for easier pest management. Celery improves soil structure, nasturtiums deter pests, and beans fix nitrogen.

Carrots help aerate the soil, and lettuce provides ground cover. When we planted these together we experienced that Onions deter pests, and beans and peas fix nitrogen.

Chervil improves growth and flavor, and nasturtiums act as a trap crop. Peas fix nitrogen, lettuce provides ground cover, and carrots help aerate the soil.

  • Basil

  • Oregano

  • Marjoram

  • Onions

  • Garlic

  • Beans

  • Alyssum

  • Corn

  • Marigolds

  • Radishes

  • Chervil

  • Nasturtiums

  • Peas

  • Lettuce

  • Carrots

  • Nasturtiums

  • Oregano

  • Beans

  • Marigolds

  • Buckwheat

  • Carrots

  • Lettuce

  • Onions

  • Beans

  • Peas

  • Basil

  • Borage

  • Calendula

  • Dill

  • Garlic

  • Oregano

  • Other

  • Brassicas

  • Celery

  • Nasturtiums

  • Beans

Winter Squash

Tomatoes

Parsley

  • Beans (pole)

  • Sunflowers

  • Cucumbers

  • Dill

  • Peas

  • Nasturtiums

  • Radishes

  • Dill

  • Oregano

  • Sunflowers

  • Beans

  • Calendula

  • Horseradish

  • Cilantro

  • Tansy

  • Buckwheat

  • Nasturtiums

  • Oregano

  • Radishes

  • Tomatoes

  • Roses

  • Onions

  • Beans

  • Peas

  • Garlic

Parsley
Parsley
Cucumbers
Cucumbers
Potatoes
Potatoes
Zucchini
Zucchini

Corn

Potatoes

Zucchini

Cucumbers

Pole beans add nitrogen to the soil, sunflowers provide structure and wind protection, cucumbers provide ground cover, dill deters pests, and peas enrich the soil with nitrogen, which promotes healthier corn growth.

When we grew cucumbers multiple times we found that nasturtiums deter aphids, beetles, and bugs, radishes repel cucumber beetles, oregano and dill deter pests, and sunflowers attract beneficial insects.

Beans improve the size of potato tubers through enhanced nitrogen fixation. Calendula, horseradish, and cilantro deter Colorado potato beetles, and tansy deters various pests.

Buckwheat attracts pest predators, nasturtiums deter aphids and beetles, oregano provides general pest protection, marigolds deter nematodes, and radishes repel pests, enhancing zucchini growth and health.

Flower Companion Cart for Marigolds, Lavender, Roses and Many More

Companion planting with flowers is a unique and aesthetically pleasing way to enhance garden health and productivity while maintaining and growing your favorite flowers from seed or transplanting them into your garden.

Unlike vegetable companion planting, which primarily focuses on mutual benefits between food crops, flower companion planting focuses more on pest control, pollination, and overall garden biodiversity.

We experienced that incorporating flowers into your garden not only improves the ecosystem but also adds vibrant colors and scents that can make gardening a more enjoyable and visually appealing hobby.

In this chart are the 10 most common flowers and their companion plants:

Garlic and chives repel aphids while marigolds deter nematodes; together they enhance rose health by reducing pest stress.

  • Garlic

  • Chives

  • Marigolds

  • Sage

  • Lavender

Roses

Flower

Best Companions

Benefits and Notes

Rose
Rose
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums
Marigolds
Marigolds
Sunflower
Sunflower

Sunflowers

Zinnias

Nasturtiums

Marigolds

  • Cucumbers

  • Corn

  • Peppers

  • Melons

  • Lettuce

We experienced that sunflowers provide shade and attract pollinators, benefiting cucumbers and melons; they also act as windbreaks for taller crops.

After testing these companions ourselves we saw that marigolds deter nematodes and attract beneficial insects, which enhances the growth and health of tomatoes, beans, and onions.

Nasturtiums attract aphids away from radishes and cucumbers; they also repel beetles and improve the overall pest control for squash.

  • Tomatoes

  • Peppers

  • Squash

  • Cucumbers

  • Basil

  • Tomatoes

  • Peppers

  • Beans

  • Onions

  • Potatoes

  • Radishes

  • Cucumbers

  • Squash

  • Cabbage

  • Beans

  • Broccoli

  • Roses

  • Cabbage

  • Cauliflower

  • Broccoli

  • Thyme

  • Sage

  • Lettuce

  • Brassicas

  • Strawberries

  • Carrots

  • Peppers

  • Cucumbers

  • Basil

  • Peppers

  • Tomatoes

  • Broccoli

  • Beans

  • Onions

  • Strawberries

  • Tomatoes

  • Squash

  • Cabbage

  • Peas

  • Beans

  • Tomatoes

  • Beans

  • Peppers

  • Onions

  • Cucumbers

  • Broccoli

Borage
Borage
Echinacea
Echinacea
Lavender
Lavender
Zinnias
Zinnias
Calendula
Calendula
Sweet Alyssum
Sweet Alyssum

We saw that echinacea attracts pollinators and provides medicinal benefits. After growing it we experienced that it works well with basil and peppers to create a healthy, vibrant garden.

Lavender repels moths, flies, and fleas; when planted with roses and brassicas, it creates a fragrant, pest-resistant garden area in our experience.

Zinnias attract pollinators and beneficial insects, which improves the health and yield of tomatoes and peppers while enhancing garden biodiversity.

Borage attracts pollinators and deters pests. After growing it our expert Liviu found that it also improves soil quality, benefiting strawberries and tomatoes with its pest control and nutrient enhancement.

After our experiments, we found that calendula improves garden biodiversity, which enhances the growth and health of tomatoes, beans, and cucumbers.

Sweet alyssum attracts beneficial insects and improves soil moisture retention, aiding the growth of lettuce and brassicas while protecting strawberries.

Echinacea

Calendula

Borage

Lavender

Sweet Alyssum

Fruit Companion Planting Chart for The Most Common Fruits Like Cherries, Strawberries and Apples

Along the way, we saw that companion planting with fruits requires slightly different considerations compared to vegetables and flowers due to the perennial nature of many fruit plants and their specific needs for pollination and pest management.

This practice focuses on improving fruit yield, enhancing flavor, and protecting long-term plant health. Successful fruit companion planting can lead to healthier plants, larger harvests, and a more sustainable garden ecosystem.

Here is the fruit companion planting chart that features the 10 most common fruits and their companions:

After combining strawberries with multiple plants we found that borage deters pests and attracts pollinators. Thyme repels worms and enhances the growth of strawberries and spinach.

  • Borage

  • Thyme

  • Lettuce

  • Beans

  • Sage

Strawberries

Fruit

Best Companions

Why It Works

Strawberries
Strawberries
Grapes
Grapes
Apples
Apples
Strawberries
Strawberries

Blueberries

Raspberries

Grapes

Apples

  • Azaleas

  • Ferns

  • Hydrangeas

  • Strawberries

  • Rhododendron

Azaleas and rhododendrons share similar soil preferences. Borage attracts pollinators, which increases blueberry yields alongside strawberries and hydrangeas.

In our growing lab we saw that chives and garlic repel pests. Nasturtiums act as a trap crop, while clover improves soil nitrogen, which will benefit apple trees.

Hyssop and lavender repel pests; oregano and clover improve soil health and attract beneficial insects, enhancing grapevine growth.

  • Garlic

  • Marigolds

  • Chervil

  • Tansy

  • Nasturtiums

  • Chives

  • Daffodils

  • Garlic

  • Nasturtiums

  • Clover

  • Hyssop

  • Lavender

  • Oregano

  • Beans

  • Marigolds

  • Hyssop

  • Nasturtiums

  • Rue

  • Tansy

  • Chervil

  • Garlic

  • Strawberries

  • Peas

  • Beans

  • Cilantro

  • Eggplant

  • Marigolds

  • Chives

  • Garlic

  • Nasturtiums

  • Clover

  • Hyssop

  • Nasturtiums

  • Marigolds

  • Beans

  • Clover

  • Chives

  • Garlic

  • Marigolds

  • Garlic

  • Basil

  • Chives

  • Nasturtiums

  • Clover

Pears
Pears
Cherries
Cherries
Blackberries
Blackberries
Raspberries
Raspberries
Peaches
Peaches
Citrus
Citrus

Marigolds and chives deter pests, garlic and nasturtiums improve cherry tree health and attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, and lacewings which serve as pest control agents.

Hyssop and rue repel pests; nasturtiums act as a trap crop, while tansy and garlic enhance blackberry plant health.

After growing raspberry multiple times we saw that garlic and marigolds deter pests. Chervil improves growth, while rue and tansy repel beetles, benefiting raspberry plants.

We saw that nasturtiums deter pests, marigolds attract beneficial insects, while beans and clover improve soil fertility for pear trees.

Marigolds and garlic repel nematodes and pests, basil and chives improve the growth and health of peach trees which makes them amazing companions.

We saw that strawberries provide ground cover, and peas and beans fix nitrogen. Cilantro repels pests, and eggplant provides shade.

Cherries

Peaches

Pears

Blackberries

Citrus

Attracting Beneficial Insects With the Right Companion Planting and Combating Pests

Many companion plants help attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, parasitic wasps, etc. that act as natural predators for common garden pests. Some examples of the perfect companion plants for attracting beneficial insects are:

  • Planting herbs like dill, fennel, coriander/cilantro, and parsley can attract tiny parasitic wasps that kill aphids, caterpillars, and other pests.

  • Marigolds and nasturtiums are excellent for attracting predatory insects. Their strong scents and colors lure them in.

  • Umbelliferous flowers like dill, fennel, yarrow, angelica attract lacewings whose larvae feed on aphids, mites, thrips and more.

  • Planting a variety of flowering plants like zinnias, cosmos, sunflowers provides nectar for adult beneficial insects.

The chart below shows the number of plants that attract beneficial insects:

Spacing for Companion Planting

After planting hundreds of plants together and growing them we clearly saw that proper spacing between companion plants is crucial for allowing them to grow optimally without outcompeting each other for resources. The spacing depends on the specific plant combinations and their habits.

Here is a graph that shows different groups of plants (vegetables, fruits, flowers, herbs, ...) and their usual spacing requirements based on typical examples in that group:

Ideal Companion Planting Spacing in Different Plant Groups

Root Crops

Carrots: Space 18 inches between rows if planted with legumes

Beets: Space 24 inches between rows

Radishes: Space 18 inches from cucumbers/peas

Fruiting Crops

Tomatoes: Space plants 24-36 inches apart, leave 12-18 inch radius around each plant for underplanting

Peppers: Space 18-24 inches apart

Cucumbers: Space 6-12 inches from radishes/nasturtiums

Legumes

Beans: Space rows 24 inches apart if planted with corn

Peas: Space 18 inches from carrots/radishes

Herbs

Basil: Plant 12 inches from tomatoes/peppers

Dill: Space plants 18-24 inches apart

Marigolds: Plant every 1-2 feet along vegetable rows

Flowers

Nasturtiums: Space 6-12 inches from cucumbers

Zinnias/Cosmos/Sunflowers: Space 18-24 inches apart

Marigolds: Plant every 1-2 feet along vegetable rows

Fruits

Strawberries: Space rows 12-15 inches apart for underplanting spinach

Blueberries: Space 4-5 feet apart if underplanting oregano

The spacing allows for air circulation, prevents competition for nutrients/water, and enables easier harvest. Overcrowding can negate the companion planting benefits.

a bunch of flowers in a garden planter
a bunch of flowers in a garden planter
a person digging a hole for companion planting
a person digging a hole for companion planting
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What Plants You Should Not Plant Together

  1. Tomatoes and Brassicas: Inhibit each other's growth and attract pests.

  2. Onions and Legumes: Onions inhibit the growth of legumes.

  3. Carrots and Dill: Dill suppresses carrot growth.

  4. Fennel and Most Garden Plants: Fennel releases chemicals that inhibit growth.

  5. Potatoes and Tomatoes: Increased risk of disease and pest infestation.

  6. Beans and Garlic: Garlic inhibits bean growth.

  7. Cucumbers and Aromatic Herbs: Aromatic herbs stunt cucumber growth.

  8. Corn and Tomatoes: Both are heavy feeders, competing for the same nutrients.

  9. Asparagus and Garlic: Both inhibit each other's growth.

  10. Radishes and Hyssop: Hyssop suppresses radish growth.

  11. Strawberries and Brassicas: Brassicas suppress strawberry growth.

  12. Lettuce and Broccoli: Although they fit amazingly together broccoli releases compounds that inhibit lettuce.

  13. Sunflowers and Potatoes: Sunflowers inhibit potato growth.

  14. Garlic and Beans: Garlic can stunt bean growth.

  15. Cabbage and Grapes: Cabbage suppresses grape growth.

multiple plants and herbs planted together in a large pod
multiple plants and herbs planted together in a large pod
a bunch of plants together
a bunch of plants together
Corn planted together with other plants
Corn planted together with other plants
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How to Know When Plants Fit Amazingly Together

Determining the best plant combinations for companion planting involves understanding the interactions between different plants and observing their mutual benefits. In our experience this is absolutely crucial for companion planting so that you can choose plants on your own. Here are some detailed steps and considerations to help you determine when plants are ideally suited to grow together:

1. Understanding Your Plant Needs

To successfully pair plants, start by understanding the basic requirements of each plant, including:

Sunlight

Ensure that plants with similar sunlight needs are placed together. For instance, sun-loving plants for example shrubs for sun should be grouped in areas with full sun, while shade-tolerant plants should be in less sunny spots.

Watering

Pair plants with similar water requirements to avoid over or under-watering. If you want to read exactly how you can water your plants like a pro check our full guide on watering garden plants.

Soil

Match plants with similar soil preferences in terms of soil pH, texture, and fertility.

2. Observing Plant Interactions

Observe how plants interact with each other in terms of physical space, root systems, and growth habits:

Physical Support

Some plants can provide natural support for others. For instance, corn can act as a trellis for climbing beans.

Root Systems

Plants with shallow roots can be paired with deep-rooted plants to maximize soil space and nutrients.

Canopy Coverage

Tall plants can provide shade for shorter, shade-tolerant plants. For example, sunflowers can offer shade to lettuce in hot climates.

3. Pest and Disease Management

Effective companion planting can help manage pests and diseases, ideally choosing at least one or two plants that repel pests in every area:

Natural Repellents

Some plants emit chemicals that repel pests. For example, garlic and onions release sulfur compounds that deter aphids and other pests.

Trap Crops

Certain plants can lure pests away from your main crops. Nasturtiums attract aphids, protecting nearby vegetables.

Beneficial Insects

Flowers like marigolds and borage attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and bees, that help control pest populations and improve pollination.

4. Nutrient Sharing and Soil Health

You should also consider how plants can complement each other nutritionally:

Nitrogen Fixers

Leguminous plants like beans and peas fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting nitrogen-demanding plants like corn.

Nutrient Accumulators

Some plants, like comfrey, accumulate nutrients from deep in the soil and make them available to other plants through decomposing leaves.

5. Companion Planting Studies and Historical Data

Refer to scientific studies and historical data that provide evidence of successful plant pairings:

Scientific Research: Numerous studies have validated traditional companion planting practices. For example, research by the University of California Cooperative Extension has documented the benefits of planting basil near tomatoes for enhanced growth and pest control.

Historical Practices: Traditional agricultural knowledge, such as the Native American “Three Sisters” method of planting corn, beans, and squash together, demonstrates effective companion planting techniques that have been used for centuries.

Practical Tips for Assessing Plant Compatibility

Here are practical tips directly from our specialists to help you assess plant compatibility in your garden for better companion planting:

Trial and Observation

Start with small experiments and observe the results. Ideally, take notes on plant health, growth rates, and pest presence.

Gardening Journals

If you can keep a gardening journal to record the success and challenges of different plant combinations each season, this would also be another great method to help you understand your companion planting better.

Consult Reliable Sources

Use gardening books, extension services, and reputable online resources to learn about effective companion plantings.

Feedback from Local Gardeners

Connect with local gardening groups or forums to share experiences and gather insights specific to your region. You can also direct-message us on our social profiles and we will provide you with tips directly tailored to your situation.

FAQs

What makes a companion plant?

A companion plant is one that offers tangible benefits to its neighboring plants, such as pest deterrence, nutrient enrichment, or structural support.

These plants interact synergistically, creating a more resilient and productive garden ecosystem.

What vegetables should not be planted next to each other?

Certain vegetables should be strategically placed apart due to incompatible growth patterns, susceptibility to pests and diseases, or nutrient competition. For instance, avoid planting members of the nightshade family, like tomatoes and potatoes, together to minimize the risk of spreading diseases like blight.

What is the difference between companion and intercropping?

Companion planting focuses on pairing plants that provide mutual benefits, such as pest control or nutrient enhancement, whereas intercropping involves growing different crops together in the same space to optimize land use and increase yield.

While both methods harness plant interactions, companion planting emphasizes the specific advantages of each pairing.

What not to grow with peppers?

Peppers should not be cultivated near plants like fennel, asparagus, or beans, which may stunt their growth or attract pests and diseases detrimental to peppers. Maintaining adequate spacing and avoiding incompatible neighbors can help optimize pepper growth and yield.

What are companions in plants?

Companions in plants refer to species that harmonize when grown together, exhibiting mutually beneficial relationships that promote overall garden health. These plants may repel pests, attract pollinators, improve soil structure, or provide shade and support for neighboring crops, fostering a balanced and thriving garden ecosystem.

What is the purpose of a companion?

Companions serve to enhance the vitality and productivity of neighboring plants by offering various advantages, including pest management, soil fertility enhancement, and ecosystem diversification.

By strategically selecting companion plants, you as a gardener can create resilient ecosystems that require fewer inputs and support sustainable cultivation practices with amazing yields.

Can a plant be a companion?

Yes, absolutely! A plant can act as a companion if it contributes positively to the well-being of nearby plants.

Whether through pest repellence, nutrient fixation, or habitat provision, certain plant species play crucial roles in fostering garden harmony and resilience. Examples include aromatic herbs like basil, which deter pests, and nitrogen-fixing legumes like beans, which enrich the soil with essential nutrients.

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Calin Oancea
Calin Oancea
Green Box
Green Box

Article By:

Calin has been in the garden industry for 5 years and knows a lot about gardening and plants. He is the founder of this website and is responsible for most of the content.

Reviewed By:

Helga has been fascinated with plants since childhood and is an avid gardening specialist who grows various plants. She has reviews and fact-checks multiple articles on this website.