What to Plant with Garlic

Garlic is a versatile bulb that adds flavor and nutrition to many dishes. However, it is also a great companion plant in the garden. Planting garlic with other vegetables and herbs can improve soil health, repel pests, and even enhance the flavor of neighboring plants. In this article, we will discuss what to plant with garlic to get the best results.

Companion Plants for Garlic

Companion planting is the practice of planting different crops together for mutual benefit. When it comes to garlic, there are several plants that make great companions:

1. Tomatoes - Garlic repels many tomato pests, such as whiteflies and spider mites. Tomatoes also benefit from the sulfuric compounds released by garlic, which can help prevent blight.

2. Peppers - Like tomatoes, peppers enjoy the pest-repelling properties of garlic. Additionally, garlic can improve soil health by increasing beneficial fungi that help plants absorb nutrients.

3. Broccoli - Broccoli is a member of the brassica family, which includes cabbage and kale. These plants all benefit from the sulfur compounds released by garlic, which can help deter pests and improve flavor.

4. Beans - Legumes like beans and peas have nitrogen-fixing capabilities, which means they can convert nitrogen from the air into a usable form for plants. Planting them with garlic can help boost soil fertility.

5. Chamomile - Chamomile is a fragrant herb that attracts beneficial insects and helps repel pests. Planting it alongside garlic can help improve soil health and create a diverse ecosystem in your garden.

How to Plant Garlic with Companion Plants

When planting garlic with companions, it is important to consider spacing and timing. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Give each plant enough space - Make sure to leave enough room between plants so that they can grow without competing for resources. In general, garlic should be planted 6-8 inches apart from other plants.

2. Plant at the right time - Different crops have different planting times, so make sure to do your research before planting. Garlic should be planted in the fall, while many other plants are planted in the spring. Be sure to plan accordingly.

3. Rotate your crops - To avoid soil-borne diseases and pests, it is important to rotate your crops every year. This means moving plants to different areas of your garden so that they do not grow in the same soil two years in a row.

In conclusion, garlic is a wonderful companion plant that can benefit many vegetables and herbs in your garden. By planting garlic with tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, beans, chamomile, and other compatible plants, you can improve soil health, repel pests, and enhance flavor. Just remember to give each plant enough space, plant at the right time, and rotate your crops to ensure a healthy and productive garden. Happy planting!