Which vegetables grow well together?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Strategic companion planting creates synergistic relationships between plants that enhance health and yield, giving specific crops a beneficial partner. For example, tomato plants surrounded by basil have produced 30% more fruit while also naturally repelling whiteflies. These relationships are formed through biochemical reactions and pest confusion, providing improved ecosystems for your garden.
Tomato Alliances
- Basil improves growth and flavor when planted 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) away
- Marigolds deter root-knot nematodes in surrounding soil
- Avoid cabbage family plants which inhibit tomato development
Cucumber Partnerships
- Radishes repel cucumber beetles when interplanted in rows
- Nasturtiums attract aphids away from cucumber vines
- Corn provides vertical support for climbing varieties
Carrot Protectors
- Onions mask carrot scent from root flies
- Rosemary deters carrot rust flies with its aroma
- Chives improve carrot flavor and growth rate
Bean & Squash Teams
- Corn stalks support pole bean growth naturally
- Squash leaves suppress weeds around bean roots
- Marigolds planted throughout deter Mexican bean beetles
For optimal results, plan companion plant spacing carefully. For example, place basil 8 inches from the stems of the tomato plants to form a protective circle around them. Space the onions evenly among the carrot rows, spacing them 12 inches apart. In my garden, these spacings are scrupulously followed, leading to total immunity to insect depredations without the use of chemicals.
Avoid pairings that will limit growth and attract pests. Keep potatoes away from tomatoes, as they can spread blight. Keep beans away from plants in the onion family, as they inhibit nitrogen fixation. I group incompatible plants in the opposite zones of the garden to minimize negative interaction.
Begin this year with just one pairing for your companion planting: tomatoes and basil. My first attempt, twenty years ago, with this duo taught me the power of companion planting. That simple partnership produced the best tomato crop I had ever had, starting my lifetime passion for companion planting.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Vegetable Garden Planning Steps
