Companion planting is the simple idea that certain plants grow better when paired together. By choosing the right “plant neighbors”, you can boost growth, reduce pests, and improve your harvest — all organically.
What Is Companion Planting?
Some plants release natural chemicals that help others grow, while some attract pollinators or repel pests. Pairing the right plants together creates a healthier, more balanced garden.
Classic Companion Planting Examples
🌱 Tomatoes + Basil: Basil helps repel pests like whiteflies and adds flavor when grown near tomatoes.
🌱 Carrots + Onions: Onions deter carrot flies, while carrots help loosen soil around onion roots.
🌱 Corn + Beans + Squash (“Three Sisters”): Corn provides a trellis for beans, beans add nitrogen to the soil, and squash shades the ground to prevent weeds.
Plants That Don’t Get Along
Not every plant makes a good neighbor. For example, keep onions away from beans and peas, as they can slow each other’s growth.
Benefits of Companion Planting
✅ Natural pest control
✅ Healthier soil
✅ Better yields in small spaces
✅ A more diverse, beautiful garden
Tip:
Start small — add a few pairings to your garden plan each season, and watch how your plants respond. The method I use now in my garden is that I try to plant at least an herb, flower and vegetable in each bed.
By learning the basics of companion planting, you’ll build a garden that practically works with you — not against you.
Leave a comment