The Best Mustard Companion Plants: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Companion Planting is Important?

Companion planting involves grouping different types of plants together to enhance their growth, protect them from pests and diseases, and improve soil health. By planting the right combination of plants together, you can create a thriving ecosystem that benefits all involved.

One popular plant for companion planting is mustard. Mustard is a cool-season crop that is easy to grow and produces flavorful leaves, seeds, and flowers. It is also known for its ability to suppress soil-borne diseases and pests. However, for maximum benefit, it is important to know which plants to pair with mustard. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best mustard companion plants and how to grow them successfully.

Section 1: Brassicas as Mustard Companion Plants

Brassicas are members of the mustard family and make excellent companions for mustard. They include cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and kale among others. These plants share similar nutrient requirements with mustard and also have a common enemy – the cabbage moth. Placing mustard near these plants can help to repel the cabbage moth and prevent damage to the crops.

Cabbage

Cabbage is a favorite among gardeners and is an excellent companion for mustard. When planted together, the two crops work together to boost each other's growth. The roots of the mustard plant produce compounds that support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the soil. These bacteria help to break down organic matter, making nutrients more accessible to the cabbage.

Broccoli

Broccoli is another brassica that grows well with mustard. Mustard plants release chemicals that help to repel pests, such as flea beetles and aphids. These pests can be a significant problem for broccoli crops, so planting mustard nearby can help to keep them at bay.

Section 2: Legumes as Mustard Companion Plants

Legumes are plants that have nodules on their roots, which contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that is available to plants. When planted near mustard, legumes can help to increase nitrogen levels in the soil, which can promote healthy growth in both crops.

Peas

Peas are a popular choice for companion planting with mustard. They are nitrogen-fixing plants that can improve soil health and increase yields in mustard plants. Peas also grow quickly, making them an excellent cover crop for mustard during the early stages of growth.

Beans

Beans are another legume that pairs well with mustard. Like peas, they are nitrogen-fixing plants that can help to increase soil fertility. Beans are also known for their ability to suppress weeds, which can be helpful for mustard crops.

Section 3: Herbs as Mustard Companion Plants

Herbs are another category of plants that make excellent companions for mustard. They can help to repel pests, attract beneficial insects, and improve soil health.

Dill

Dill is a herb that works well with mustard. It attracts beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on aphids and other pests. Dill also has natural fungicidal properties that can help to protect mustard from soil-borne diseases.

Mint

Mint is another herb that pairs well with mustard. It repels pests, such as ants and cabbage moths, and can help to improve soil health. However, it is important to plant mint in a container or in a designated area of the garden, as it can quickly take over if left unchecked.

Section 4: Other Mustard Companion Plants

In addition to brassicas, legumes, and herbs, there are several other plants that make good companions for mustard.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a great companion plant for mustard. They attract beneficial insects, such as hoverflies and aphid midges, which prey on pests that can damage mustard crops. Nasturtiums also have natural antibiotic properties that can help to protect mustard from soil-borne diseases.

Lettuce

Lettuce is another plant that pairs well with mustard. It has shallow roots that do not compete with the deeper roots of mustard. Lettuce also benefits from the nitrogen-fixing bacteria produced by legumes, making it a good crop to interplant with peas or beans.



In choosing the right companion plants is crucial for growing healthy, productive mustard crops. By planting mustard with the right combination of plants, you can improve soil health, repel pests, and increase yields. Brassicas, legumes, herbs, and other plants all have unique properties that make them excellent companions for mustard. By experimenting with different combinations, you can create a thriving ecosystem that benefits all involved.

FAQs

1. Can I grow mustard with tomatoes?

Tomatoes are not recommended as a companion plant for mustard. Tomatoes prefer alkaline soil, while mustard thrives in acidic soil. Additionally, tomatoes and mustard have different nutrient requirements, which can lead to competition for resources.

2. Can I plant mustard with cucumbers?

Cucumbers are not recommended as a companion plant for mustard. Cucumbers and mustard have different nutrient requirements and can compete for resources. Additionally, cucumbers are susceptible to powdery mildew, which can spread to mustard crops.

3. How do I prevent pests from damaging my mustard crops?

One effective way to prevent pests from damaging mustard crops is to plant companion plants that repel or attract beneficial insects. For example, planting dill or nasturtiums near mustard can help to repel pests and attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

4. Can I grow mustard in containers?

Yes, mustard can be grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep with drainage holes. Fill the container with well-draining soil and plant the mustard seeds according to package instructions.

5. When is the best time to plant mustard?

Mustard is a cool-season crop that grows best in early spring or fall when temperatures are cooler. Plant mustard seeds 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost in your area.