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Companion Planting Guide

Create a thriving, pest-resistant garden without chemicals

Companion Planting Guide

Nature's Perfect Pairings: The Smart Gardener's Guide

Companion planting is the gardener's secret weapon for a thriving, pest-resistant garden without chemicals. This strategic practice of growing compatible plants together creates natural partnerships that boost growth, deter pests, and attract beneficial insects.

Find Plant Companions

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Select a Plant

Choose a plant from the list to see its companion planting information

How to Get Started with Companion Planting

  1. Start small: Convert one bed or a few containers to companion planting
  2. Observe and record: Keep notes on which combinations work best in your garden
  3. Plan for succession: As early crops finish, replace with compatible companions
  4. Embrace diversity: Aim for at least 3-5 different plant species per bed
  5. Patience with perennials: Some of the best companions (herbs, flowers) take time to establish

Raised Bed Strategies

  • Border method: Plant pest-repelling and beneficial-attracting plants around the perimeter
  • Alternating rows: Create rows of vegetables with companion plants in between
  • Grid planting: Arrange plants in a grid pattern rather than traditional rows
  • Polyculture blocks: Create diverse plant communities in blocks throughout the bed
  • Plant tall crops on the north side to prevent shading

Container Garden Tips

  • Use larger containers (minimum 12-18 inches) whenever possible
  • Plant taller crops in the center of containers
  • Position sun-loving companions on the south side
  • Use cascading plants like nasturtiums and sweet alyssum at edges
  • In containers, plants can be spaced 25-30% closer than in ground gardens

Remember: While companion planting offers numerous benefits, it works best as part of an integrated approach that includes proper spacing, watering, soil health, and good gardening practices. Avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides that kill beneficial insects, even organic ones. Be willing to tolerate some pest presence to maintain the balance of beneficial insects.