Companion planting. Which plants grow better together?

A successful garden is not just about choosing the right plants. It is also about understanding how different species interact with one another. Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves growing selected plants close together to make better use of space, encourage biodiversity and support healthy plant development. Some combinations can attract beneficial insects, provide natural shade, improve soil conditions or help reduce pressure from certain garden pests.

Our Companion Planting tool makes it easier to discover which plants are commonly recommended as neighbours and which combinations may be less suitable. Whether you are planning a vegetable patch, a raised garden bed or a collection of container plants, you can find practical suggestions to help organise your growing space.

How does the companion planting tool work?

Using the tool is simple. First, select a plant from a database of 30 popular vegetables, herbs, flowers and garden crops. You can choose from tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, peppers, potatoes, lettuce, basil, rosemary, strawberries, marigolds and many other species.

Next, select your garden type:

• Vegetable garden: for traditional vegetable growing.

• Raised garden bed: for organised planting in elevated beds.

• Container garden: for growing plants in pots and containers.

• Mixed garden: for combining vegetables, herbs and flowers.

Once you make your selections, the tool generates a companion planting guide tailored to your chosen plant and growing environment.

Which plants grow better together?

Some plants can complement each other when grown nearby. For example, tomatoes and basil are a popular combination in vegetable gardens, while carrots and onions are traditionally planted together. Beans can also be grown alongside corn and squash as part of the well-known Three Sisters planting system.

These combinations can help gardeners use available space efficiently, introduce more plant diversity and attract beneficial insects. Flowering herbs such as dill and thyme can provide valuable food sources for pollinators and other beneficial insects.

Which plants should you avoid planting together?

Not every combination is equally suitable. Some plants compete for sunlight, water, nutrients or growing space. Others may share pests and diseases, making certain planting arrangements less desirable.

The Companion Planting tool highlights potentially less suitable combinations so you can consider these factors when planning your garden. However, compatibility depends on growing conditions, plant varieties and available space, so recommendations should be treated as practical guidance rather than strict rules.

How can companion planting improve your garden?

Thoughtful plant combinations can make gardening more efficient and diverse. By combining vegetables, herbs and flowers, you can create a more balanced growing environment, attract pollinators and make better use of available space.

Explore different plant combinations, experiment with traditional companion planting techniques and plan a garden where every plant has room to thrive.