What Vegetables to Plant Next to Each Other

When planning your vegetable garden, it's important to consider not only what vegetables you want to grow, but also where to plant them. Some vegetables can help each other grow better, while others can have negative effects when planted together. So, what vegetables should you plant next to each other? Read on to find out.

Companion Planting

Companion planting involves planting certain vegetables next to each other based on the belief that they will benefit each other in some way. For example, some plants may repel pests or attract beneficial insects, while others may help improve soil health or provide shade for each other. Here are some examples of companion planting:

Tomatoes and Basil

Tomatoes and basil are great companions in the garden. Basil can help repel pests that can damage tomato plants, like tomato hornworms and whiteflies. Plus, the two plants have similar water and light requirements, so they can be planted together without one taking nutrients away from the other.

Lettuce and Radishes

Lettuce and radishes are also good companions because they have similar growing requirements and can be harvested at the same time. Radishes can help break up soil and make it easier for lettuce roots to grow. Plus, the peppery flavor of radishes can help repel pests like cucumber beetles that can damage lettuce.

Beans and Corn

Beans and corn are often planted together because they provide mutual benefits. Beans can help fix nitrogen in the soil, which corn needs to grow. Plus, the vines of the beans can climb up the stalks of the corn, providing support for the beans and shade for the corn.

Plants to Avoid Planting Together

In addition to companion planting, it's also important to consider what vegetables should not be planted next to each other. Some plants can have negative effects on each other, such as attracting pests or competing for nutrients. Here are some examples of plants to avoid planting together:

Tomatoes and Corn

Tomatoes and corn should not be planted together because they both attract the same pests, like the tomato fruitworm and the corn earworm. Plus, both plants have high nutrient requirements, so planting them together can lead to competition for nutrients in the soil.

Onions and Peas/Beans

Onions should be planted away from peas and beans because they can stunt their growth. Onions release a chemical that can inhibit the growth of other plants, so it's best to keep them separated.

Cabbage and Strawberries

Cabbage and strawberries should not be planted together because they both attract a pest called the cabbage maggot. Planting them together can increase the risk of damage to both plants.

In conclusion, when planning your vegetable garden, it's important to consider what vegetables to plant next to each other. Companion planting can help certain vegetables grow better together, while avoiding planting certain vegetables together can help avoid negative effects. Keep in mind the examples of companion planting and plants to avoid planting together to help your garden thrive.