Summer squash, such as zucchini, crookneck, and pattypan, are known for their high yields and versatility in the kitchen. However, these plants often attract pests that can harm their leaves and stems. One effective way to protect summer squash and improve their growth is by using companion planting. This gardening technique helps reduce pests, attract pollinators, and improve soil health.
We spoke with gardening experts Shawna Coronado, author of No-Waste Organic Gardening, and Heather Kibble, sales manager at Sakata Seed America, to learn which plants make the best companions for summer squash.
Why Use Companion Plants with Summer Squash?
Companion planting creates a mini-ecosystem in your garden. It helps keep away unwanted insects, attracts helpful pollinators like bees and butterflies, and returns important nutrients to the soil. For example, beans and peas add nitrogen to the soil, which benefits squash. Aromatic herbs and flowers can also help repel pests.
11 Best Companion Plants for Summer Squash
1. Beans
Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) grow well with summer squash because they both like full sun and warm weather. Beans add nitrogen to the soil, which helps squash grow. Bush beans are recommended because they don’t need a trellis.
2. Leeks
Leeks (Allium ampeloprasum) have a strong scent that confuses and deters pests like carrot flies and aphids. They grow upright, so they don’t compete for space with sprawling squash plants.
3. Lettuce
Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) takes up little space and can be planted around young squash in the spring. Choose “cut and come again” varieties for continuous harvests and efficient use of garden space.
4. Peas
Peas (Pisum sativum) climb vertically, while squash spreads horizontally. Like beans, peas fix nitrogen in the soil, boosting soil health for squash.
5. Radishes
Radishes (Raphanus sativus) grow underground and help break up soil for squash roots. They can also attract pests away from squash, acting as a “trap crop.”
6. Spinach
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a quick-growing leafy green that fits well around squash. It matures early and enjoys the shade from growing squash plants.
7. Tomatoes
Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) and squash thrive in similar conditions. The large leaves of squash act as a living mulch, keeping the soil moist and stopping weeds from growing around tomatoes.
8. Oregano
Oregano (Origanum) is an aromatic herb that attracts pollinators when it blooms. This helps squash plants produce more fruit.
9. Basil
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) not only tastes great with summer squash, but also repels pests like mosquitoes and flies. Its scent can even improve the flavor of squash.
10. Borage
Borage (Borago officinalis) attracts pollinators like bees and deters pests such as tomato hornworms. Its leaves can be used as mulch to enrich the soil after the season ends.
11. Marigolds
Marigolds (Tagetes) are known for attracting pollinators and deterring pests. They can also draw pests away from your squash if the pests prefer marigolds.
Plants to Avoid with Summer Squash
Not all plants are good neighbors for summer squash. Some compete for nutrients or attract the same pests and diseases.
Potatoes: Potatoes compete for the same nutrients and can stunt squash growth. They also attract similar pests and diseases.
Pumpkins: Pumpkins are another type of squash and can cross-pollinate with summer squash, affecting fruit quality and taste. They also attract the same pests.
Conclusion
Companion planting is a simple and natural way to protect your summer squash, improve pollination, and boost your harvest. By choosing the right companion plants, you can make your garden healthier and more productive.
