Wildstead Way

Companion planting is a simple way to boost your garden’s health and productivity by growing certain plants near each other. When done right, it can help improve growth, reduce pests, and make the most of your garden space without extra work.

Understanding which plant combinations truly support each other can make a big difference in your gardening success. This article will guide you through 12 companion planting combos that have been proven to work well together, helping you create a thriving, balanced garden.

Tomatoes and Basil

You’ll find basil is a popular companion for tomatoes. Planting them together can help improve flavor and may reduce pests like certain insects.

Basil also attracts beneficial bugs that protect your tomatoes. Just keep them close but not overcrowded to allow good airflow.

For tips on this pairing, check out this guide on companion planting with basil and tomatoes.

Cucumbers and Nasturtiums

You can plant cucumbers and nasturtiums together to save space and add color to your garden. Nasturtiums attract beneficial insects and can act as a trap crop for aphids, drawing them away from your cucumbers. However, be aware that aphids may still be attracted to nasturtiums themselves, so keep an eye on both plants to manage pests effectively. For more details, check this cucumber companion planting guide.

Carrots and Chives

When you plant carrots alongside chives, you create a natural defense against pests. Chives help repel carrot flies, which can damage your carrots.

This combo also encourages healthy growth because chives improve soil conditions. You’ll find your carrots tasting better and growing stronger when paired with chives.

It’s a simple, low-maintenance pairing that works well in most garden spaces. For more on carrot companions, check this carrot companion plants guide.

Cabbage and Chamomile

You can boost the growth of your cabbage by planting chamomile nearby. Chamomile helps improve cabbage’s flavor and attracts beneficial insects.

It also repels pests like cabbage moths, which can damage your plants. Adding chamomile to your garden is a simple way to support healthier cabbage without chemicals.

Try this combo in your next planting to see the difference chamomile makes for your cabbages. For more tips, check out cabbage companion plants and chamomile options.

Dill and Basil

You’ll find that dill and basil grow well together in your garden. They help improve each other’s growth and flavor when planted side by side.

Dill can also help keep aphids away from your basil, reducing pests naturally. This pairing is easy and beneficial for fresh herbs in your garden or pots.

For more details, see companion planting tips for dill and basil.

Marigolds and Tomatoes

You can plant marigolds near your tomatoes to help protect them from some pests. Marigolds are known to repel harmful nematodes that attack tomato roots.

Surrounding your tomato plants with marigolds may reduce the need for chemical sprays. Many gardeners find this combo improves plant health and growth naturally. For more details, check out Marigold And Tomato Companion Planting.

Napa Cabbage and Cilantro

Planting Napa cabbage alongside cilantro can help improve pest control in your garden. Cilantro attracts beneficial insects that may protect your cabbage from harmful bugs.

Both plants prefer cooler temperatures, making them good neighbors during the same growing season. You can also add onions for extra protection around your cabbage. Learn more about this combo here.

Onions and Chamomile

When you plant chamomile near your onions, you create a helpful partnership. Chamomile repels pests like aphids that can harm your onions.

It also enhances the flavor of your onions, making them tastier. This combo is easy to grow and works well in many garden setups. For more details, see companion planting tips with chamomile and onions.

Sunflowers and Beans

You might think sunflowers and beans grow well together, but they usually don’t. Sunflowers release a chemical that beans dislike, which can stunt their growth.

If you want to plant them near each other, wait until your sunflowers are well established before sowing beans. This helps avoid competition and lets both plants thrive. For more details, check this discussion about beans and sunflowers.

Parsley and Tomatoes

When you plant parsley near your tomatoes, it can help improve their health. Parsley’s strong scent may deter some pests that bother tomato plants.

You’ll also find that tomatoes and parsley grow well together because they have similar water and sunlight needs. This pairing is a classic you can easily try in your garden.

Adding parsley can even enhance your tomato plants’ flavor and overall growth. For more tips, check out this companion planting for parsley.

Radishes and Cucumbers

You can plant radishes and cucumbers together because they have similar watering needs. This makes caring for both plants simpler.

Radishes also help protect cucumbers by distracting cucumber beetles that might otherwise damage your cucumber vines.

Make sure both get plenty of sunlight to thrive side by side in your garden. Growing radishes near cucumbers is a great way to maximize space and support healthy growth.

For more tips, see the best companion plants for radishes.

Lavender and Vegetables

You can plant lavender alongside many vegetables to help keep pests away. Lavender’s strong scent deters cabbage worms that often attack broccoli, cabbage, kale, and cauliflower.

Lavender prefers lean, well-drained soil, so keep it separate or in pots near your vegetable beds. This helps it thrive without competing for nutrients.

Consider pairing lavender with brassicas or other garden staples like garlic and rosemary for a healthier, more pest-resistant garden. For more details, check out lavender companion plants tips.