Complete Companion Planting Guide
Master the art of pairing plants for natural pest control, improved yields, and healthier gardens
Companion planting is one of the oldest and most effective organic gardening techniques. By strategically planting certain vegetables, herbs, and flowers together, you can create a thriving ecosystem that naturally repels pests, attracts pollinators, and maximizes your garden's productivity.
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Companion planting is the practice of growing different plant species in close proximity to benefit one or both plants. These benefits can include:
- ✓Natural pest control: Some plants repel harmful insects or attract beneficial predators
- ✓Improved pollination: Flowering companions attract pollinators to your vegetables
- ✓Soil enhancement: Nitrogen-fixing plants like beans enrich soil for neighboring crops
- ✓Space optimization: Tall and short plants can share garden space efficiently
- ✓Weed suppression: Ground covers shade soil and prevent weed growth
Top 10 Companion Planting Combinations
Tomatoes & Basil
Basil repels aphids, whiteflies, and improves tomato flavor
Carrots & Onions
Onions deter carrot flies while carrots repel onion flies
Corn, Beans & Squash
The "Three Sisters" - symbiotic nutrient sharing and support
Roses & Garlic
Garlic prevents black spot and aphids on roses
Cucumbers & Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums trap aphids and beetles away from cucumbers
Lettuce & Chives
Chives deter aphids and improve lettuce growth
Cabbage & Marigolds
Marigolds repel cabbage moths and whiteflies
Peppers & Basil
Basil enhances pepper flavor and repels mosquitoes
Brassicas & Dill
Dill attracts beneficial wasps that prey on cabbage worms
Beans & Potatoes
Beans fix nitrogen for potatoes while potatoes repel bean beetles
Plants That Don't Get Along
Some plants compete for resources or release chemicals that inhibit each other's growth. Avoid these combinations:
Both are heavy feeders competing for nutrients
Alliums inhibit bean growth
Both attract similar pests and diseases
Strong herbs can stunt cucumber growth
Dill can cross-pollinate and reduce carrot quality
How to Practice Companion Planting
Choose Your Main Crop
Start by selecting your primary vegetable or herb that you want to grow.
Research Compatible Companions
Use our companion planting tool to find plants that grow well with your main crop.
Plan Your Garden Layout
Arrange plants considering sunlight, water needs, and companion relationships.
Plant at the Right Time
Follow planting schedules ensuring companions are planted at appropriate times.
Monitor and Adjust
Observe plant growth and pest activity, adjusting combinations as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is companion planting?
Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefit. Plants can help each other by repelling pests, attracting beneficial insects, improving soil nutrients, providing shade, or enhancing flavor.
What are the three sisters in companion planting?
The Three Sisters is a traditional Native American planting method combining corn, beans, and squash. Corn provides support for beans, beans add nitrogen to soil, and squash leaves shade the ground preventing weeds and retaining moisture.
Can companion planting really reduce pests?
Yes! Many plants naturally repel specific pests or attract beneficial insects. For example, marigolds repel aphids and whiteflies, while nasturtiums act as a trap crop for aphids, protecting nearby vegetables.
What plants should never be planted together?
Some antagonistic combinations include: tomatoes with brassicas or corn, beans with onions or garlic, and cucumbers with aromatic herbs. These plants can compete for nutrients, release growth-inhibiting compounds, or attract shared pests.
How do I start companion planting in my garden?
Start small with proven combinations like tomatoes with basil, carrots with onions, or corn with beans and squash. Use our companion planting tool to plan your garden layout and gradually expand as you gain experience.
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