You can plant a variety of companion plants with peppers to improve growth, deter pests, and make efficient use of garden space. Here are some of the best options:
Herbs
- Basil: Enhances pepper flavor and repels aphids, spider mites, and thrips
- Cilantro, Parsley, Rosemary, Thyme, Dill, Chamomile: Attract pollinators and beneficial insects, improve soil health, and help protect peppers from disease
- Garlic and Onions: Their pungent oils repel aphids and other pests
Vegetables and Greens
- Bush Beans and Pole Beans: Improve soil nitrogen and grow well near peppers
- Carrots: Loosen soil for better pepper root growth and attract beneficial insects
- Leafy Greens (Arugula, Mizuna, Mustard Greens, Lettuce, Spinach, Swiss Chard, Kale): Provide ground cover, shade soil, retain moisture, and suppress weeds without shading peppers
- Marigolds and Nasturtiums: Help keep pests away and attract pollinators
Other Fruiting Plants
- Tomatoes and Eggplants: Can be grown near peppers as they share similar growing conditions, but watch for shade and disease overlap
Additional Tips
- Avoid planting heavy nutrient feeders like cabbage too close unless soil is well-fertilized
- Use low-growing plants around peppers to avoid blocking sunlight.
- Companion plants can help maintain soil moisture and reduce weeds.
In summary, ideal companions for peppers include herbs like basil, cilantro, and thyme; vegetables such as carrots, beans, and leafy greens; and flowers like marigolds to deter pests and attract pollinators