Companion planting is an ancient gardening technique where certain plants are grown together to
improve growth, deter pests, and enhance flavors. By carefully selecting which plants share a bed,
gardeners can create a healthy, balanced ecosystem that reduces the need for chemicals and maximizes yields.

What is Companion Planting?

Companion planting works because some plants support each other naturally. Some plants release
chemicals that repel pests, while others attract beneficial insects or provide shade and nutrients.
When done correctly, companion planting can lead to:

• Stronger, healthier plants
• Fewer pests and diseases
• Better flavors and higher yields
• More efficient use of garden space

Common Companion Planting Combinations

• Tomatoes + Basil: Basil repels tomato hornworms and enhances tomato flavor.
• Carrots + Onions: Onions deter carrot flies.
• Cucumbers + Radishes: Radishes act as a trap crop, keeping cucumber beetles away.
• Corn + Beans + Squash (Three Sisters): Corn supports beans; beans fix nitrogen; squash shades soil.
• Marigolds + Almost Anything: Marigolds repel nematodes and many insect pests.
• Lettuce + Chives: Chives deter aphids on lettuce.
• Spinach + Strawberries: Spinach grows well in the shade of strawberries.

Plants to Avoid Together

• Tomatoes + Potatoes: Share diseases like blight.
• Carrots + Dill: Dill can stunt carrot growth.
• Cabbage + Strawberries: Compete for nutrients.
• Beans + Onions/Garlic: Onions and garlic can stunt bean growth.

When to Plant Companions

Timing is crucial for companion planting. Here is a general guide based on seasons:

• Spring (After Last Frost): Tomatoes, basil, cucumbers, beans, carrots, lettuce, spinach
• Summer: Squash, corn, radishes, marigolds
• Fall (Before First Frost): Spinach, lettuce, radishes
• Perennials: Herbs like chives, rosemary, thyme can be planted almost any time in mild climates

Tip: Start seeds indoors for slow-growing plants like tomatoes and peppers 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant when soil is warm.

Benefits of Companion Planting

1. Pest Control: Natural repellents reduce the need for pesticides.
2. Improved Growth: Nitrogen-fixing plants like beans feed neighboring crops.
3. Soil Health: Deep-rooted plants loosen soil, improving nutrient uptake.
4. Biodiversity: Mixed plantings attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
5. Space Efficiency: Vertical and ground-cover plants make the most of limited garden space.

Getting Started

• Plan your garden layout on paper.
• Group plants by mutual benefits.
• Rotate crops each season to prevent soil depletion and disease buildup.
• Observe and adjust as needed; every garden is unique.

Companion planting is a natural, sustainable way to increase garden productivity while protecting the environment.
With careful planning and timing, you can create a thriving, resilient garden full of flavor, color, and life.