Table of Contents
Growing non-GMO zucchini and summer squash can be highly rewarding, but to ensure a healthy and productive harvest, choosing the right companion plants is essential. Companion planting helps improve growth, deter pests, and enhance flavor. In this article, we explore the best companion plants for these popular summer vegetables.
Benefits of Companion Planting for Zucchini and Summer Squash
Companion planting offers several benefits, including natural pest control, improved pollination, and better nutrient uptake. For non-GMO zucchini and summer squash, selecting the right companions can make a significant difference in crop quality and yield.
Top Companion Plants for Zucchini and Summer Squash
- Marigolds: Their strong scent helps repel beetles and nematodes that attack squash plants.
- Radishes: Help deter squash vine borers and other pests, and grow quickly alongside squash.
- Beans: Fix nitrogen in the soil, which benefits heavy-feeding squash plants.
- Borage: Attracts pollinators and improves overall plant health.
- Herbs (such as dill, basil, and thyme): Repel pests and attract beneficial insects that prey on squash pests.
Plants to Avoid Growing Near Zucchini and Summer Squash
- Potatoes: Can promote the spread of diseases like blight.
- Cabbage and other Brassicas: Compete for nutrients and may attract pests that also target squash.
- Fennel: Known to inhibit the growth of many garden plants, including squash.
Additional Tips for Successful Companion Planting
Ensure proper spacing between plants to allow air circulation and reduce disease risk. Regularly monitor plants for pests and signs of disease. Incorporate organic mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. By choosing the right companions and maintaining good garden practices, you can enjoy a bountiful and healthy zucchini and summer squash harvest.