Easy Companion Planting Guide for Your Garden
What is Companion Planting?
Companion planting is when you grow certain plants together because they help each other. This can mean fewer bugs, better soil, and healthier plants.
Why Use Companion Planting?
- Fewer Bugs: Some plants keep pests away from others.
- Better Growth: Certain plants help others grow stronger.
- Saves Space: Grow more in less space by pairing the right plants.
- Healthier Soil: Some plants add nutrients that others need.
- Fewer Weeds: Some plants block weeds from growing.
Best Plant Combinations
Tomatoes & Basil π πΏ
- Why? Basil keeps bugs away and makes tomatoes taste better.
- Avoid: Donβt plant with cabbage or corn.
Carrots & Onions π₯π§
- Why? Onions keep carrot flies away.
- Avoid: Dill, which hurts carrot growth.
Corn, Beans & Squash π½π±π (The Three Sisters)
- Why?
- Corn gives beans support to climb.
- Beans add nitrogen to help soil.
- Squash spreads out and stops weeds.
Cucumbers & Radishes π₯πΏ
- Why? Radishes keep cucumber beetles away.
- Avoid: Sage, which slows cucumber growth.
Lettuce & Chives π₯¬πΏ
- Why? Chives keep bugs off lettuce.
- Avoid: Parsley, which fights for space.
Peppers & Marigolds πΆοΈπΌ
- Why? Marigolds keep bad bugs away.
- Avoid: Beans, which donβt help peppers.
Potatoes & Horseradish π₯πΏ
- Why? Horseradish keeps potato bugs away.
- Avoid: Tomatoes and cucumbers, which share diseases.
Broccoli & Dill π₯¦πΏ
- Why? Dill attracts good bugs that eat pests.
- Avoid: Strawberries, which take up space.
What Not to Plant Together π«
- Tomatoes & Corn: Attract the same pests.
- Carrots & Dill: Dill hurts carrot growth.
- Onions & Beans: Onions slow bean growth.
- Cabbage & Strawberries: Strawberries bring pests to cabbage.
- Potatoes & Tomatoes: Both get the same diseases.
How to Plan Your Garden π‘
Step 1: Pick Your Plants
Choose what vegetables you want to grow and check if they are good companions.
Step 2: Draw a Simple Map
Make a small sketch to see where each plant will go.
Step 3: Rotate Plants Every Year
Move plants around to keep the soil fresh and stop pests.
Step 4: Add Flowers & Herbs
Plants like marigolds and basil help protect vegetables from bugs.
Step 5: Watch & Adjust
See how your plants do and move things if needed next year.
π±
Companion planting makes your garden healthier and more productive. It keeps pests away, makes plants stronger, and helps you get better harvests. Try it in your garden and enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetables!