Potatoes are like the bread and butter of the garden, right? But they’re not loners. They got friends. And when you pair ‘em right, they do better. So, let’s dive into the 11 best pals for your spuds.
1. Beans – Nitrogen Fixers Extraordinaire
Beans are like that friend who always brings snacks to the party. They fix nitrogen in the soil, which potatoes love. Plus, their roots don’t mess with potato tubers. So, they’re a win-win.
2. Marigolds – The Pest Police
Marigolds are the garden’s bodyguards. They repel pests like aphids and nematodes. Plant them near your potatoes, and they’ll keep the bad guys away. Plus, they add a pop of color.
3. Nasturtiums – The Trap Crops
Nasturtiums are like decoys. They attract pests like aphids and flea beetles, keeping them off your potatoes. And they’re edible, so you get a snack too.
4. Horseradish – The Spicy Shield
Horseradish has a strong scent that pests hate. It repels Colorado potato beetles and other critters. Plant it at the corners of your potato patch for natural protection.
5. Garlic – The Smelly Defender
Garlic’s strong odor confuses pests and keeps them away. It also has antifungal properties that help potatoes stay healthy. Plant it near your spuds for a double defense.
6. Chives – The Flavor Enhancers
Chives not only taste great but also deter pests like aphids and beetles. Their flowers attract beneficial insects, helping your potatoes thrive. Plus, they’re easy to grow.
7. Beans – The Soil Enrichers
Beans, again. They’re just that good. They enrich the soil with nitrogen, which potatoes need. And their roots don’t compete with potato tubers.
8. Sweet Alyssum – The Beneficial Insect Magnet
Sweet alyssum attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies. These insects prey on pests that harm potatoes. Plant it around your potato patch for natural pest control.
9. Peas – The Nitrogen Boosters
Peas, like beans, fix nitrogen in the soil. They also have shallow roots, so they won’t compete with potatoes. Plus, they’re a cool-season crop, so they won’t shade your spuds.
10. Lettuce – The Ground Cover
Lettuce grows quickly and provides ground cover. It helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Plant it between your potato rows for a tidy garden.
11. Corn – The Vertical Support
Corn grows tall and provides shade for potatoes. It also helps suppress weeds around the base of the potato plants. Just make sure the corn doesn’t overshadow your spuds.
Plants to Avoid with Potatoes
Not all plants are good companions for potatoes. Avoid planting them with other nightshades like tomatoes and eggplants, as they share similar pests and diseases. Also, steer clear of cucumbers, which can compete for water and nutrients.
Final Thoughts
Pairing potatoes with the right companions can boost your garden’s health and yield. Beans, marigolds, and nasturtiums are just a few examples of plants that work well with potatoes. Remember, healthy soil and proper care are key to a successful potato harvest. Happy gardening!
