Eggplant Companion Plants: Choosing the Right Plants for a Bountiful Harvest

Growing eggplants can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging. One way to make sure that you get the best possible yield from your eggplant plants is to plant them alongside other plants that will benefit them. These plants are called companion plants and they can help improve soil health, attract beneficial insects, and provide shade or support for your eggplants. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best eggplant companion plants that you can use to maximize your harvest.

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries to promote healthy and productive gardens. By planting certain plants together, gardeners can create a mutually beneficial relationship between the plants. Some plants produce substances that repel pests, while others attract beneficial insects that prey on harmful pests. Companion planting can also help improve soil health by increasing the diversity of plants in the garden and promoting nutrient cycling.

Choosing the right eggplant companion plants

When choosing companion plants for your eggplants, there are several factors to consider. First, you will want to choose plants that have similar growing requirements to your eggplants. This includes factors such as soil pH, water requirements, and sun exposure. You will also want to choose plants that have different growth habits than your eggplants. For example, if your eggplants are bushy, you may want to plant tall, vine-like plants alongside them to provide shade and support.

Section 1: Herbs

Herbs are a great choice for eggplant companion plants because they can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects. Some of the best herbs to plant alongside eggplants include:

Basil

Basil is a great companion plant for eggplants because it repels pests such as thrips and aphids. It also attracts beneficial insects such as bees, butterflies, and parasitic wasps. Plant basil around the base of your eggplants to keep pests at bay.

Oregano

Oregano is another great herb to plant alongside eggplants. It repels pests such as spider mites, aphids, and cabbage moths. Oregano also attracts beneficial insects such as hoverflies and ladybugs.

Section 2: Vegetables

Planting vegetables alongside eggplants can be a great way to maximize space in your garden and improve soil health. Some of the best vegetable companions for eggplants include:

Peppers

Peppers are a great choice for eggplant companion plants because they have similar growing requirements. They both prefer well-draining soil and full sun. Plant peppers alongside your eggplants to create a visually appealing garden bed.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are another great companion plant for eggplants. They both require similar growing conditions and can benefit from each other's presence. Tomatoes can help shade eggplants from the hot sun, while eggplants can provide support for tomatoes as they grow.

Section 3: Flowers

Flowers can be a great addition to any garden, but they can also serve as useful eggplant companion plants. Some of the best flowers to plant alongside eggplants include:

Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular companion plant for many vegetables, including eggplants. They repel harmful nematodes and attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps. Plant marigolds around the base of your eggplants to keep pests at bay.

Calendula

Calendula is another great flower to plant alongside eggplants. It attracts beneficial insects such as hoverflies and lacewings, which prey on harmful pests. Calendula also has medicinal properties and can be used to make a healing salve for minor cuts and scrapes.

Section 4: Legumes

Legumes are plants that fix nitrogen in the soil, making them a great choice for improving soil health in your garden. Some of the best legume companions for eggplants include:

Beans

Beans are a great companion plant for eggplants because they fix nitrogen in the soil. This can help improve the overall health of your garden and promote healthy plant growth. Plant beans alongside your eggplants to create a mutually beneficial relationship between the two plants.

Peas

Peas are another great legume to plant alongside eggplants. They fix nitrogen in the soil and can help improve soil health. Peas also attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.


Companion planting can be a great way to improve the health and productivity of your garden. By choosing the right eggplant companion plants, you can help repel pests, attract beneficial insects, and improve soil health. Consider planting herbs, vegetables, flowers, and legumes alongside your eggplants to create a diverse and thriving garden.

FAQs

1. What are some common pests that affect eggplants?

Some common pests that affect eggplants include flea beetles, spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies.

2. Can I plant eggplants with other nightshade vegetables?

Yes, you can plant eggplants with other nightshade vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes.

3. How often should I water my eggplant plants?

Eggplants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered deeply once a week, or more often if the soil is dry.

4. Can I grow eggplants in containers?

Yes, you can grow eggplants in containers as long as the container is at least 5 gallons in size and has good drainage.

5. What is the best time of year to plant eggplants?

Eggplants should be planted in the spring after the last frost date. They can also be planted in the fall in mild climates.