Some plants simply work better when they grow side by side. Companion planting is about growing different plants together so they can support each other.
Tall plants can provide shade for smaller ones. Deep-rooted plants bring up nutrients for shallow-rooted companions. Some plants even deter pests or attract beneficial insects. It’s all about creating a balanced ecosystem.
This is also why food forests can be so productive: you’re not just using ground space — you’re using layers (ground covers, herbs, shrubs, small trees, and the tree canopy). And when the soil is covered and shaded by ground-cover plants, less water evaporates, weeds are outcompeted, and the whole system becomes more protected.
Classic combinations
- Carrots and onions: Onions can help deter carrot flies
- Beans and corn: Beans fix nitrogen for corn, while corn provides support for the beans to climb
Not all combinations work, so do a bit of research. But when it clicks, companion planting can increase yields, reduce pests, and make your garden more resilient.
