Originally published March 18, 2017 · Updated by The Homestead Guru Editor on November 8, 2026.
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Companion planting can help you make thoughtful use of a garden bed. Start with each plant’s light, water, spacing and soil needs, then test combinations that serve a clear purpose.
Choose a purpose for each pairing
The University of Minnesota’s companion-planting guide reviews research on specific combinations. Some studies found benefits from basil or marigolds near tomatoes and nasturtiums with squash. Results depend on the crop, pest and growing conditions; they do not establish a universal list of plants that love or hate one another.
Tomatoes and cucumbers can share a garden when each gets adequate room and suitable care. Crowding, poor airflow or mismatched watering needs can create problems without the plants being inherent enemies.
Plan for flowers and pollination
Flowers can provide habitat and food for useful insects. Match that goal to the crop: different vegetables have different pollination needs. The University of Minnesota’s crop pollination guide explains the distinctions. Adding flowers does not guarantee a larger harvest.
Garden nasturtiums and mashua are different crops. Do not use an ornamental plant’s common name as proof that its roots are an edible Andean tuber.
Keep a garden journal
- Record plant varieties, spacing, sun and watering.
- Try one small comparison rather than changing every bed at once.
- Observe pests, plant health and harvests through the season.
- Use crop rotation and good growing conditions alongside any pairing experiment.
Explore companion-planting books
These books offer garden ideas to compare with current extension guidance.
