What Can You Plant with Potatoes?

Potatoes are one of the most versatile and beloved vegetables around the world. They are tasty, easy to grow and can be the basis of many dishes. However, planting potatoes alone can be lonely and unproductive. The good news is that there are other crops that can be planted alongside potatoes to help them grow better and keep pests away. In this article, we'll explore some of the best things you can plant with your potatoes.

Companion Plants for Potatoes

Companion planting is the practice of planting different crops together that benefit each other in some way. When it comes to potatoes, there are several plants that can be used to make them thrive. One such plant is beans. Beans are great for planting near potatoes because they add nitrogen to the soil, which is essential for healthy potato growth. Additionally, the dense foliage of beans can help shade and cool the soil, which is beneficial for potatoes in hot weather.

Another good companion plant for potatoes is corn. Corn and potatoes have different nutrient requirements, so planting them together can help ensure that the soil is adequately balanced. The height of the corn can also provide shade to the potatoes, which can help them stay cooler in hot weather. Additionally, the roots of corn can help break up hard soil, allowing for better potato root growth.

Herbs are also great companion plants for potatoes. Examples of herbs that work well with potatoes include chives, coriander, and parsley. These herbs have been known to repel potato beetles, which are notorious potato pests. Furthermore, adding herbs to the potato bed can add a lovely fragrance to the garden, making it more attractive.

Some vegetables that are also compatible with potatoes include spinach, lettuce, and brassicas. These plants can help add greenery and source of fresh greens for your diet. They can also help in keeping the soil moist and protecting the soil from direct sunlight.

Plants to Avoid Planting with Potatoes

While there are several crops that work well with potatoes, there are some plants that should be avoided. One such plant is tomatoes. Tomatoes are in the same family as potatoes, and they are susceptible to the same pests and diseases. Planting them together can lead to the spread of diseases such as blight.

Other plants to avoid planting near potatoes include squash, pumpkins, and cucumbers. These plants are all susceptible to the Colorado potato beetle, which is a common pest in potato gardens. Planting them together can lead to an infestation of the beetle and damage your potato crop.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting different crops alongside potatoes is an excellent way to enhance garden productivity and taste. Beans, corn, herbs, spinach, and brassicas are all great companion plants to grow with potatoes. However, there are some plants to avoid planting due to their potential for disease or pest problems. By carefully choosing the plants to grow alongside your potatoes, you can maximize your yields and ensure a healthy crop.