Bad Neighbors – 9 Planting Pairs That You Should Never Grow Side By Side!
Gardening can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and knowledge. While some plants thrive together and benefit from each other’s presence, others can become bad neighbors, stunting growth, attracting pests, or even spreading disease.
Understanding which plants should never be grown side by side is crucial for a healthy, vibrant garden. Here are nine planting pairs you should avoid to ensure your garden flourishes.
1. Tomatoes and Potatoes
Why They Don’t Get Along:
Tomatoes and potatoes are both members of the nightshade family, which makes them susceptible to similar diseases. Planting them together increases the risk of blight, a fungal disease that can devastate both crops.
Alternatives:
- Tomatoes: Basil, marigolds, and onions.
- Potatoes: Beans, corn, and cabbage.
2. Carrots and Dill
Why They Don’t Get Along:
Dill can inhibit the growth of carrots. When dill matures, it produces chemicals that can stunt carrot development. Additionally, dill attracts carrot flies, which can harm carrot crops.
Alternatives:
- Carrots: Peas, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- Dill: Cabbage, onions, and cucumbers.
3. Cucumbers and Aromatic Herbs
Why They Don’t Get Along:
Cucumbers are sensitive to strong scents, and aromatic herbs like sage and rosemary can impact their flavor and growth. Additionally, these herbs can compete for nutrients and space.
Alternatives:
- Cucumbers: Beans, corn, and sunflowers.
- Aromatic Herbs: Cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes.
4. Beans and Onions
Why They Don’t Get Along:
Onions release a compound that can inhibit the growth of beans. Beans, on the other hand, can fix nitrogen in the soil, which can be detrimental to onions that prefer lower nitrogen levels.
Alternatives:
- Beans: Corn, carrots, and cucumbers.
- Onions: Lettuce, tomatoes, and marigolds.
5. Fennel and Most Vegetables
Why They Don’t Get Along:
Fennel has allelopathic properties, meaning it releases chemicals that can inhibit the growth of many vegetables, including tomatoes, beans, and brassicas.
Alternatives:
- Fennel: Plant it alone or near dill, which it does not adversely affect.
- Vegetables: Basil, parsley, and chives.
6. Corn and Tomatoes
Why They Don’t Get Along:
Corn and tomatoes attract similar pests, particularly the corn earworm and the tomato fruitworm. Planting them together can lead to increased pest infestations.
Alternatives:
- Corn: Beans, peas, and squash.
- Tomatoes: Carrots, onions, and basil.
7. Radishes and Hyssop
Why They Don’t Get Along:
Hyssop can stunt the growth of radishes and should be avoided as a companion plant. Additionally, hyssop can attract pests that may harm radishes.
Alternatives:
- Radishes: Carrots, peas, and lettuce.
- Hyssop: Grapes, cabbages, and broccoli.
8. Broccoli and Strawberries
Why They Don’t Get Along:
Broccoli and strawberries compete for nutrients in the soil. Strawberries can also attract pests like slugs and snails, which can damage broccoli.
Alternatives:
- Broccoli: Onions, potatoes, and dill.
- Strawberries: Spinach, beans, and lettuce.
9. Peas and Garlic
Why They Don’t Get Along:
Garlic releases sulfur compounds that can inhibit the growth of peas. This can lead to reduced yields and unhealthy plants.
Alternatives:
- Peas: Carrots, cucumbers, and radishes.
- Garlic: Tomatoes, peppers, and spinach.
Understanding the relationships between plants is essential for successful gardening. By avoiding these problematic planting pairs, you can create a harmonious garden where plants support and enhance each other’s growth.
Remember, companion planting is about creating a balanced ecosystem where plants thrive together. Happy gardening!
By keeping these nine planting pairs apart, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier and more productive garden. Share your experiences with companion planting in the comments below, and let us know if you have any additional tips or insights!
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