Companion Planting Guide: Best Plant Combinations for 2026

Companion planting is the practice of growing certain plants together for mutual benefit. This time-tested technique can improve yields, reduce pests, and create a more resilient garden ecosystem. Here’s your complete guide to companion planting for 2026.

How Companion Planting Works

Plants interact with each other and their environment in complex ways. Some combinations offer benefits like:

• Pest deterrence – Strong-scented plants can confuse or repel pests
• Pollinator attraction – Flowers draw beneficial insects to your vegetables
• Nutrient sharing – Legumes fix nitrogen that neighboring plants can use
• Physical support – Tall plants can shade or support shorter ones
• Space optimization – Plants with different root depths can share space

Classic Companion Planting Combinations

The Three Sisters

This Native American technique combines corn, beans, and squash. Corn provides support for beans, beans fix nitrogen for all three, and squash leaves shade the soil to retain moisture and deter weeds.

Tomatoes + Basil

Basil may repel tomato hornworms and aphids while potentially improving tomato flavor. At minimum, they share similar growing conditions and make a great culinary pairing.

Carrots + Onions

The strong scent of onions can confuse carrot flies, while carrots may help deter onion flies. They also don’t compete for the same soil nutrients.

Roses + Garlic

Garlic planted around roses may help deter aphids and other pests while adding to your edible garden harvest.

Best Companions for Popular Vegetables

Tomatoes

Good companions: Basil, carrots, parsley, marigolds, nasturtiums

Avoid: Brassicas (cabbage family), fennel, corn

Peppers

Good companions: Tomatoes, basil, carrots, onions, spinach

Avoid: Fennel, kohlrabi

Cucumbers

Good companions: Beans, peas, radishes, sunflowers, corn

Avoid: Potatoes, aromatic herbs

Lettuce

Good companions: Carrots, radishes, strawberries, chives

Avoid: Celery, parsley

Beans

Good companions: Corn, squash, carrots, cucumbers, cabbage

Avoid: Onions, garlic, fennel

Flowers That Benefit Vegetable Gardens

Marigolds

The classic companion flower. French marigolds release chemicals that deter nematodes and may repel whiteflies. Plant throughout your vegetable garden.

Nasturtiums

These edible flowers act as “trap crops,” attracting aphids away from your vegetables. They also deter squash bugs and cucumber beetles.

Sunflowers

Attract pollinators and beneficial insects. Their tall stalks can provide shade for heat-sensitive crops and support for climbing beans.

Calendula

Attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that prey on garden pests. Also has medicinal properties.

Companion Planting Tips

• Start with proven combinations before experimenting
• Consider plant heights and sun requirements when planning
• Rotate companion groups yearly to prevent soil depletion
• Keep records of what works in your specific garden
• Remember that results can vary based on local conditions

Conclusion

Companion planting is both art and science. While not all traditional pairings have been scientifically proven, many gardeners swear by these techniques. Experiment in your own garden and discover what works best for your growing conditions.

🌻 Companion Planting Essentials

Gardeners Basics, Pepper Seeds for Planting 8 Varieties Pack, Jalapeno, Habanero, Bell Pepper, Cayenne, Hungarian Hot Wax, Anaheim, Serrano, Cubanelle Heirloom Seeds for Planting in Garden Non GMO

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01/29/2026 04:02 am GMT

Organic Indoor Lettuce & Greens Garden Starter Kit – Certified USDA Organic Non GMO – Includes Spinach, Kale, Red Romaine, Loose Leaf Lettuce Seeds for Planting, Potting Soil, Peat Pots

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01/29/2026 01:02 am GMT