Planting Onions and Potatoes Together: A Winning Combo

The Benefits of Planting Onions and Potatoes Together

Are you looking for a new way to maximize your garden's potential? Have you ever considered planting onions and potatoes together? This might seem like an odd pairing at first, but it's actually a winning combination that can offer several benefits.

1. Space Savings

One of the primary advantages of planting onions and potatoes together is space-saving. Both plants are ideal for small gardens or tight spaces since they can grow in close proximity to one another without affecting each other's growth. You can plant onions and potatoes in the same row, with the onions planted around the base of the potato plants. This saves space and makes it easier to manage your garden.

2. Pest Control

Another benefit of planting onions and potatoes together is that they can help control pests. Onions are known to repel certain insects that can harm potato plants, such as potato beetles. By planting onions near your potatoes, you can deter these pests and protect your crop from damage.

3. Nutrient Sharing

Onions and potatoes also have complementary nutrient needs. Onions require more sulfur than potatoes, while potatoes need more potassium. When planted together, these plants can share nutrients and help each other thrive. This can result in larger, healthier crops.

How to Plant Onions and Potatoes Together

Now that you know the benefits of planting onions and potatoes together, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get ed.

1. Choose Your Varieties

The first step is to choose the onion and potato varieties you'd like to plant. There are many different types of onions and potatoes available, so choose ones that are suited to your climate and growing conditions.

2. Prepare Your Soil

Onions and potatoes grow best in loose, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Before planting, prepare your soil by adding compost or other organic matter to improve soil quality.

3. Plant Your Potatoes

Plant your potatoes first, as they take longer to mature than onions. Dig a trench about 6 inches deep and place your seed potatoes in the trench, spaced about 12 inches apart. Cover the potatoes with soil, leaving about 3 inches of space between the soil surface and the top of the trench.

4. Plant Your Onions

Once your potatoes are planted, it's time to plant your onions. Plant them around the base of your potato plants, about 4-6 inches away from the stems. Make sure the bulbs are buried about 1 inch deep in the soil.

5. Water and Fertilize

Water your plants regularly and fertilize them according to their specific needs. Onions require more sulfur than potatoes, so you may need to add a sulfur-containing fertilizer or amendment to your soil. Potatoes need more potassium, so you may want to add a potassium-rich fertilizer.

Tips for Growing Onions and Potatoes Together

Here are some additional tips to help you grow onions and potatoes together successfully.

1. Watch Out for Weeds

Weeds can quickly take over a garden and compete with your plants for nutrients and water. Keep your garden weed-free by pulling weeds regularly or using a mulch to suppress them.

2. Provide Adequate Sunlight

Onions and potatoes both need plenty of sunlight to grow and thrive. Make sure your garden receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.

3. Harvest Your Crops Properly

When it's time to harvest your onions and potatoes, be sure to do so carefully to avoid damaging the plants. Gently remove the soil around the base of the plants and carefully pull out the onions and potatoes by their stems.

4. Store Your Crops Correctly

Once you've harvested your crops, store them in a cool, dry place. Potatoes should be stored in a dark place to prevent sprouting, while onions can be hung in a well-ventilated area.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it okay to plant onions and potatoes together?

Yes, planting onions and potatoes together is a great way to save space, control pests, and share nutrients.

2. Can I plant other vegetables with onions and potatoes?

Yes, you can plant other vegetables with onions and potatoes as long as they have similar growing requirements.

3. How often should I water my onion and potato plants?

Water your plants regularly, about once a week, or when the top inch of soil feels dry.

4. What is the best time of year to plant onions and potatoes?

Plant your onions and potatoes in the early spring, after the last frost, for best results.

5. How do I know when my onions and potatoes are ready to harvest?

Onions are ready to harvest when the tops to yellow and fall over. Potatoes are ready to harvest when the leaves to turn yellow and die back.



Planting onions and potatoes together is a smart gardening strategy that can help you maximize your space, control pests, and share nutrients. By following these simple steps and tips, you can grow healthy, hearty crops that will provide you with fresh food all season long. Happy planting!