If you’ve got perfect rows in your garden, you’re doing it wrong.
When I planted my very first garden, I was careful to place the carrots here, and the spinach there and I made sure to have one section to place all my herbs.
WRONG!
I’ve since learned that companion planting is the way to go.
Why Companion Planting Rocks
The science behind companion planting is that because there are different nutrient requirements of plants, placing ones together that require different nutrients from the soil will ensure a high yield in both.
It’s like a symbiotic relationship. Both plants support each other. It’s a win-win.
Also, planting herbs around your garden will help with pest control. So when you see somebody plant an herb garden separate from their main garden, you can teach them how to incorporate their herbs to create a more sustainable environment!
When it comes to mapping out your garden, try not to plan things out perfectly. Here are some examples of what I’ve done:
Parsley and carrots go well together. Parsley tends to grow HUGE, so I left some space around this guy so he can expand.
Mint is also a great companion to carrots.
My cabbage and broccoli TOOK OFF this year after being planted around dill.
How to map out your garden for companion planting
When it comes to companion planting, you just need to be sure that you don’t plant together things that inhibit each other’s growth! Check out this image for an easy peasy guide!
Image Source: www.afristar.org
Are there good companion plants for Zucchini and Summer Squash? What about Cucumbers?
Hi Logan-
Zucchinis are summer squashes. They and cucumbers are all cucurbits and can follow the guidelines on squash or cucurbits in general.
This article can help with companion planting: https://www.burpee.com/gardenadvicecenter/areas-of-interest/flower-gardening/companion-planting-guide/article10888.html
Thank you -Bobbi (DaNelle’s Assistant)
I use the companion planting in my garden. I have a map, I use every year so I don’t have to figure it out every spring. Then to rotate my crops I run my rows the opposite direction, switching back and forth every year.
I love the idea. It ‘s just that it was hard to work out what to plant where. The image you put up makes it easy to work out, I’m definitely trying it this year. Thank you for the info! : )
So maybe a dumb question but when u plant your stuff together do u do like a row of carrots next to a row of a companion or just throw seeds in the ground where ever as long as they are companion? Also, I have 4 raised beds but I put a lot of stuff straight into the ground, are there certain things I should put in my raised beds vs. the ground?
Hey Dawn,
Yes, I do that. I’ll do rows of carrots and throw parsley and mint around it:) For in the ground, I usually keep the vine veggies & fruits in there.