Imagine your garden as a lively little neighborhood where every plant has a purpose, and some even become best friends! Companion planting isn’t just an old gardener’s tale—it’s a tried-and-true method backed by research and real results. Think of it as nature’s way of keeping the peace (and pests!) out of your garden. Whether it’s basil keeping tomato hornworms at bay or nasturtiums luring away cabbage caterpillars, this technique helps your garden work smarter, not harder.
What is Companion Planting (and Why You’ll Love It)?
It’s the art of pairing plants that benefit one another, kind of like choosing the right roommate. The classic “Three Sisters” (corn, beans, squash) is one example: corn gives beans something to climb, beans boost nitrogen in the soil, and squash shades the ground to suppress weeds.
Top Benefits of Companion Planting:
✅ Naturally repels pests
✅ Attracts pollinators and beneficial bugs
✅ Improves plant health and soil fertility
✅ Reduces weeds
✅ Boosts yields (and beauty!)
Favorite Plant Pairings You’ll Want to Try:
- Tomatoes + Basil: Basil repels pests AND improves flavor. A classic duo!
- Garlic + Potatoes: Garlic wards off aphids and other nasties—plant it between rows for natural protection.
- Nasturtiums + Brassicas (kale, cabbage, broccoli): These pretty flowers lure away hungry caterpillars.
- Sunflowers + Cucumbers/Beans: Sunflowers make a great living trellis.
- Borage + Strawberries or Tomatoes: Borage attracts pollinators and even enhances flavor. Win-win!
Science has proven that planting the right combos not only controls pests but also improves pollination, plant health, and even crop flavor. Our updated chart highlights pairings that are backed by real research, not just gardening folklore.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just getting started, companion planting brings more life—and more harvest—to your garden.
🛒 And don`t forget to stock up at HSU Growing Supply!
Visit us at HSU Growing Supply and get everything you need for a flourishing season:
🌱 Seeds Galore – Choose from an amazing selection of vegetables, herbs, and flowers that thrive in Wisconsin. Start from seed and watch your garden grow from the ground up!
🥬 Asparagus Rhizomes – A perennial favorite! Plant now and enjoy a delicious harvest for years to come.
🌳 Bare Root Trees – Dreaming of an orchard? We’ve got fruit and nut trees ready to plant: apples, cherries, plums, pears, and more—eco-friendly and budget-friendly too!
🚨 But hurry! Quantities are limited. Once they’re gone, that’s it until next season.
Happy planting!
