Gardening isn't just about what we grow, but how we grow it. One of the easiest and most rewarding ways to take your garden to the next level is by practising companion planting. It’s all about pairing up plants that work well together, helping each other thrive, and creating a harmonious environment for everything to grow stronger, healthier, and happier.
So, why do we do it? Let’s dig in!
What is Companion Planting?
Simply put, companion planting is the practice of growing certain plants next to each other because they benefit from being together. These benefits can come in many forms, from deterring pests to boosting growth or even improving the flavour of your crops. It’s all about creating natural partnerships in your garden that help both plants (and you!) flourish.
Think of it as a bit of plant matchmaking. Some plants can act as natural pest deterrents, while others might improve soil quality, or even provide shade to keep tender plants from wilting in the sun. It's a wonderful way to make the most of your garden space without relying on chemical pesticides or artificial fertilisers.
Why Should We Practice Companion Planting?
There are plenty of reasons to give companion planting a go, and here are just a few:
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Pest Control
Some plants can help keep pests at bay, either by emitting smells that insects don’t like or by attracting beneficial bugs that hunt down harmful ones. For example, basil planted near tomatoes can keep pesky mosquitoes and aphids away. -
Improved Plant Health
Certain plants can actually improve the growth and overall health of others by adding nutrients to the soil or offering natural support. For instance, legumes like peas and beans “fix” nitrogen in the soil, helping to enrich the earth for other plants that need a little extra boost. -
Better Yields
Companion planting can increase your yields, as some plant pairings encourage each other to grow more vigorously. Marigolds are a great example - when planted alongside veggies, they not only look pretty but also help attract pollinators and deter unwanted critters.
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Enhanced Soil Health
By planting complementary species together, you can naturally improve the health of your soil. Deep-rooted plants like carrots or turnips can help break up compacted soil, allowing shallow-rooted plants to grow better. -
Supporting Biodiversity
When we plant a range of species that work well together, we’re promoting biodiversity. A diverse garden isn’t just more resilient to pests and diseases; it also supports a broader range of wildlife, creating a more sustainable, eco-friendly garden that’s in harmony with nature. -
Waste Less Water
Some plants help others conserve water by creating shade or reducing evaporation. This is especially important in drier climates or during hot summer months.
Companion Planting Pairings
Now that we know why companion planting is such a win for our gardens and the environment, let’s take a look at some plant pairings you can try in your own patch of green.
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Tomatoes & Basil
A classic pairing, basil and tomatoes do wonders when planted together. Not only does basil help to ward off mosquitoes and aphids, therefore improving the growth of the plant, but it also enhances the flavour of your tomatoes. -
Carrots & Onions
Carrots and onions are the perfect example of a partnership that keeps pests at bay. The smell of onions can deter the carrot fly, while the carrots’ roots help break up the soil, allowing both plants to grow with ease. -
Beans, Corn and Squash
This one’s a well-known “Three Sisters” combination used by Indigenous farmers for centuries, and one of our favourites at The Gardeners Co. Beans grow up the tall corn stalks, saving space and creating a natural support structure. In turn, beans fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching it for the corn and other plants in the area. The squash spread out low to the ground, helping to provide shade and retain moisture in the soil.
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Lettuce & Radishes
Lettuce and radishes are a great team for the cooler months. The radishes help break up the soil, making it easier for the lettuce to grow, while the lettuce provides ground cover, helping to keep the soil moist for both. This combination is also perfect for smaller spaces, as they don’t take up much room. -
Marigolds & Nearly Everything!
Marigolds are often called the “guardians” of the garden, and for good reason. They emit a strong scent that deters aphids, nematodes, and even rabbits. They’re great when planted alongside just about anything - —especially tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants - —to keep unwanted pests at bay. -
Cucumbers & Dill
Cucumbers and dill make a lovely duo. Dill attracts beneficial insects like ladybirds and hoverflies, which are excellent natural predators of pests that love to munch on your cucumber plants. Dill also helps improve the flavour of cucumbers, making this pair a delightful combination for both your garden and your plate. -
Nasturtiums & Squashes
Nasturtiums act as a sacrificial plant, enticing the aphids in so that your precious squash, courgette and pumpkins plants are left well alone. They look absolutely gorgeous, an excellent distraction, but if you have some plants left untouched, you can also eat every part of a nasturtium plant from the leaves and flowers to the seeds. Nasturtiums are Shan's absolute favourite companion plant. Not only are they fantastic for keeping caterpillars and aphids off your prizes crops, but they look gorgeous and every part of the plant is edible too!
The Bottom Line
Companion planting is all about making your garden work smarter, not harder. By pairing plants that support one another, you can reduce the need for pesticides, increase biodiversity, and create a healthier, more resilient garden. Whether you’re looking to boost your harvest, protect your plants, or simply enjoy the beauty of a more diverse garden, companion planting is a fun and eco-friendly way to grow together with nature.
So, next time you’re planning your garden, think about which plants might make the best companions. Trust us, your plants - and the planet- will thank you!