Companion Plants for Watermelon and Cantaloupe

The Importance of Companion Planting

Before we dive into the specific companion plants for watermelon and cantaloupe, it's important to understand why companion planting can be so beneficial. Companion planting involves planting different crops in close proximity to one another in order to create mutually beneficial relationships. This can lead to improved soil health, increased pest resistance, and higher yields.

When it comes to watermelon and cantaloupe, companion planting can help these fruiting plants thrive. Watermelon and cantaloupe require warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight, but they can also be susceptible to pests and diseases. Companion planting can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects that can pollinate the flowers and improve overall plant health.

Companion Plants for Watermelon and Cantaloupe

Here are some great companion plants to consider for your watermelon and cantaloupe patch:

1. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a great companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe because they attract aphids and other pests away from your melons. They also have shallow roots that won't compete with your melon plants for nutrients. Plus, their bright orange and yellow flowers make for a beautiful addition to your garden.

How to Plant Nasturtiums

Plant nasturtium seeds directly in the ground after the last spring frost. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Space them about 12 inches apart.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another great companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe because they repel nematodes, which can damage the roots of your melon plants. They also attract bees and other beneficial insects that can help pollinate your melon flowers.

How to Plant Marigolds

Plant marigold seeds or seedlings in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Space them about 8-12 inches apart.

3. Radishes

Radishes are a fast-growing crop that can be planted as a cover crop between rows of watermelon and cantaloupe. They help to break up compacted soil and improve drainage, which can benefit your melon plants. They also attract beneficial insects and can help to repel cucumber beetles.

How to Plant Radishes

Plant radish seeds directly in the ground in early spring or fall. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Space them about 2-4 inches apart.

4. Mint

Mint is a great companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe because it repels ants and other pests that can damage your melon plants. It also has shallow roots that won't compete with your melon plants for nutrients.

How to Plant Mint

Plant mint seeds or seedlings in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Be sure to plant it in a container or in an area where you don't mind it spreading, as mint can be quite invasive.

5. Beans

Beans are a great companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe because they fix nitrogen in the soil, which can benefit your melon plants. They also have shallow roots that won't compete with your melon plants for nutrients.

How to Plant Beans

Plant bean seeds directly in the ground after the last spring frost. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Space them about 6-8 inches apart.

6. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are a great companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe because they attract bees and other pollinators to your garden. They also provide shade for your melon plants during hot summer days.

How to Plant Sunflowers

Plant sunflower seeds directly in the ground after the last spring frost. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Space them about 6-12 inches apart.

7. Borage

Borage is a great companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe because it attracts bees and other beneficial insects to your garden. It also has shallow roots that won't compete with your melon plants for nutrients.

How to Plant Borage

Plant borage seeds or seedlings in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Space them about 12-18 inches apart.

8. Cilantro

Cilantro is a great companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe because it repels aphids and other pests that can damage your melon plants. It's also easy to grow and adds a delicious flavor to many dishes.

How to Plant Cilantro

Plant cilantro seeds or seedlings in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Space them about 6-8 inches apart.

9. Dill

Dill is a great companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe because it attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to your garden. It's also a delicious herb that can be used in many dishes.

How to Plant Dill

Plant dill seeds or seedlings in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Space them about 12-18 inches apart.

10. Zinnias

Zinnias are a great companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe because they attract butterflies and other pollinators to your garden. They also add a pop of color to your garden.

How to Plant Zinnias

Plant zinnia seeds directly in the ground after the last spring frost. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Space them about 6-12 inches apart.



Companion planting is a great way to improve the health and yield of your watermelon and cantaloupe plants. By choosing the right companion plants, you can repel pests, attract beneficial insects, and even improve soil health. Consider planting some of these companion plants in your garden this year!

FAQs

1. Do watermelon and cantaloupe need to be planted together?

No, watermelon and cantaloupe do not need to be planted together. However, they can benefit from companion planting with other crops.

2. Can I plant any type of bean as a companion plant for watermelon and cantaloupe?

Yes, many types of beans can be used as companion plants for watermelon and cantaloupe. Bush beans and pole beans are both good options.

3. Can I plant all of these companion plants at once?

Yes, you can plant all of these companion plants at once if you have enough space in your garden. Just be sure to give each plant enough room to grow.

4. Can companion planting completely eliminate the need for pesticides?

No, companion planting cannot completely eliminate the need for pesticides. However, it can help to reduce pest populations and improve overall plant health.

5. Can I use these same companion plants with other types of melons?

Yes, many of these companion plants can also be used with other types of melons, such as honeydew or muskmelon.