Planting Companion Vegetables with Cabbage
Cabbage is a popular vegetable that belongs to the cruciferous family, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. Cabbage is easy to grow, and it's a great crop for the beginner gardener. However, to make the most out of your cabbage, it's essential to know what vegetables to plant with cabbage. Planting companion vegetables with cabbage can help improve its growth, flavor, and overall health. Here are some of the best vegetables to plant with cabbage:
Carrots
Carrots and cabbage are perfect companions because they have similar soil, water, and sun requirements. Carrots have long taproots that break up the soil, making it easier for the cabbage's roots to grow. Additionally, carrots repel the cabbage worm, which is a common pest that attacks cabbage. Carrots also have a strong smell that can help mask the scent of cabbage from pests. Plant carrots in a row beside your cabbage plants, and you'll have a great harvest of both vegetables.
Onions
Onions are another great companion vegetable for cabbage. Onions reduce the risk of cabbage worms and onion maggots. Additionally, onions contain compounds that help improve the health of cabbage. Onions also add flavor to cabbage dishes, making them a great combination. Plant onions around the perimeter of your cabbage bed, or interplant them between your cabbage plants.
Green Beans
Green beans and cabbage make a great combination because they have different rooting depths. Green beans have shallow roots, while cabbage has deep roots. This means that they don't compete for water and nutrients. Additionally, green beans add nitrogen to the soil, which is essential for the growth of cabbage. Plant green beans in a row beside your cabbage plants, and you'll have a great harvest of both vegetables.
Bush Peas
Bush peas and cabbage also make a great combination. Peas and beans also add nitrogen to the soil, which helps improve the growth of cabbage. Peas also help repel pests that are attracted to cabbage, such as cabbage moths. Additionally, peas have shallow roots, and they don't compete with cabbage for water and nutrients. Plant peas in a row beside your cabbage plants, and you'll have a great harvest of both vegetables.
Lettuce
Lettuce is another great companion vegetable for cabbage. Lettuce is a fast-growing plant, and it grows quickly in the shade of the cabbage. Additionally, lettuce has a shallow root system, which means that it doesn't compete with the cabbage for water and nutrients. Plant lettuce between your cabbage plants, and you'll have a great combination of vegetables in your garden.
In conclusion, planting companion vegetables with cabbage can help improve its growth, flavor, and overall health. Carrots, onions, green beans, bush peas, and lettuce are some of the best vegetables to plant with cabbage. By planting these vegetables together, you'll have a great harvest of nutritious and delicious vegetables in your garden.