What Not to Plant with Beets

Introduction

Beets are a healthy and flavorful vegetable to grow in your garden. They are easy to grow and can be harvested early for baby beets or left to mature for larger beets. However, not all plants make good companions for beets. Some plants can attract pests or compete for nutrients with beets. In this article, we will explore what not to plant with beets.

Plants to Avoid Planting with Beets

Nightshades

Nightshade plants like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants are not good companions for beets. This is because they attract the same pests, such as the Colorado potato beetle and flea beetles. These pests can quickly spread from nightshades to beets, causing significant damage to your crop. Additionally, nightshades and beets have different nutrient requirements, and planting them together can result in competition for those nutrients.

Fennel

Fennel is another plant that should not be planted with beets. Fennel has been known to stunt the growth of beets and other plants in the same area. This is because fennel contains a natural herbicide called anethole, which can inhibit the growth of nearby plants. Additionally, fennel attracts pests like aphids, which can also be harmful to beets.

Pole Beans

While beans can be excellent companions for some plants, they are not a good choice for beets. Pole beans can grow too tall and cast too much shade over the beets, which can compromise their growth. Additionally, pole beans are heavy feeders and can compete with beets for nutrients.

Plants That Are Good Companions for Beets

Lettuce

Lettuce is an excellent companion plant for beets. Lettuce grows quickly and will provide some shade for the beets. Additionally, lettuce has shallow roots and will not compete for nutrients with the beets. Growing lettuce alongside beets can also provide you with a mixed salad crop, making the most of your garden space.

Radishes

Radishes are another great companion for beets. Radishes are known to repel pests like the cucumber beetle and flea beetles. This can help protect your beet crop from damage. Additionally, radishes have shallow roots and can be harvested before they start to compete with the beets for nutrients.

Garlic

Garlic is an excellent companion for beets. Garlic is known to repel pests like aphids, which can harm beets. Additionally, garlic can bring a range of nutrients to the soil, which can benefit the beets. Growing garlic alongside beets can also help repel pests from other plants in your garden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, beets are a great vegetable to grow in your garden, but some plants should be avoided as companions. Nightshades, fennel, and pole beans should not be planted with beets due to their pest-attracting or nutrient competition properties. On the other hand, lettuce, radishes, and garlic make great companions for beets due to their pest-repelling and shallow-root properties. By planting the right companions for beets, you can help ensure a healthy and successful crop.