Companion Planting: The Art of Growing Plants Together

Gardening is an enjoyable hobby that has been around for centuries. It’s a great way to get outside, enjoy nature, and grow your own food. However, gardening can also be challenging, especially if you’re trying to grow multiple types of plants in one space. That’s where companion planting comes in. Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together in a way that benefits both plants. In this article, we’ll explore the art of companion planting and how it can help you achieve a thriving garden.

What is Companion Planting?

Companion planting is a method of planting different species of plants together. The goal is to create a mutually beneficial relationship between the plants. For example, some plants release natural chemicals that repel pests, while others attract beneficial insects that can help control pests. By planting these plants together, you can create a natural pest control system that doesn’t rely on harmful chemicals.

The Benefits of Companion Planting

There are many benefits to companion planting. Here are just a few:

Better Pest Control

One of the main benefits of companion planting is better pest control. By planting certain plants together, you can create a natural pest control system that doesn’t rely on harmful chemicals. For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes can help deter nematodes, which are tiny worms that can damage tomato roots.

Nutrient Sharing

Another benefit of companion planting is nutrient sharing. Some plants have deep roots that can reach nutrients deep in the soil, while others have shallow roots that can’t reach those same nutrients. By planting these plants together, you can create a system where the shallow-rooted plants can benefit from the nutrients brought up by the deep-rooted plants.

Improved Soil Quality

Companion planting can also help improve soil quality. Certain plants have the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which can be beneficial for other plants. For example, planting beans with corn can help provide the corn with the nitrogen it needs to grow.

The Best Companion Plants

Now that you know the benefits of companion planting, let’s take a look at some of the best companion plants:

Tomatoes and Basil

Tomatoes and basil are a classic companion planting combination. The basil helps repel pests like whiteflies and aphids, while also improving the flavor of the tomatoes.

Corn, Beans, and Squash

Corn, beans, and squash are often called the “Three Sisters” because they complement each other so well. The corn provides a structure for the beans to climb, while the beans add nitrogen to the soil. The squash helps shade the soil, preventing weeds from growing.

Marigolds and Vegetables

Marigolds are great companion plants for many different vegetables. They release natural chemicals that repel pests like nematodes and beetles.

How to Get ed with Companion Planting

Getting ed with companion planting is easy. Here are some steps to get ed:

Step 1: Plan Your Garden

Before you planting, it’s important to plan your garden. Decide which plants you want to grow and where you want to plant them.

Step 2: Choose Your Companions

Once you’ve planned your garden, it’s time to choose your companions. Look for plants that have complementary growing habits and nutrient requirements.

Step 3: Plant Your Garden

When it’s time to plant, make sure to plant your companions close together. This will help them grow and thrive together.

Step 4: Monitor Your Garden

After you’ve planted your garden, it’s important to monitor it regularly. Check for pests and signs of disease, and take action if necessary.

FAQs About Companion Planting

Q1: What are some good companion plants for tomatoes?

A1: Some good companion plants for tomatoes include basil, marigolds, and onions.

Q2: Can I plant any two plants next to each other and call it companion planting?

A2: No, not all plants make good companions. It’s important to choose plants that have complementary growing habits and nutrient requirements.

Q3: Do I need to use pesticides with companion planting?

A3: No, one of the benefits of companion planting is better pest control without the use of harmful chemicals.

Q4: How much space should I leave between companion plants?

A4: It depends on the specific plants you’re planting. As a general rule, try to plant companions close together so they can benefit from each other.

Q5: Can companion planting be used in containers?

A5: Yes, companion planting can be used in containers. Just make sure the plants you choose have similar growing habits and nutrient requirements.


Companion planting is a great way to improve your garden and reduce the amount of time and money you spend on pest control. By planting different species of plants together, you can create a natural ecosystem that benefits both plants. So why not give it a try in your own garden?