When planting squash, several companion plants can enhance growth, deter pests, and improve soil health. Here are the best options to plant with squash:

• Beans and Peas : These legumes fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching it for squash plants. Pole beans are preferred as they grow vertically and don’t compete for space with sprawling squash

• Corn : Part of the traditional "Three Sisters" planting with beans and squash, corn provides natural support for beans and shade for squash, benefiting all three crops

• Marigolds : These flowers repel pests such as squash bugs and attract beneficial insects and pollinators, helping protect squash plants

• Nasturtiums : They act as trap crops, attracting aphids and whiteflies away from squash and repelling squash bugs and cucumber beetles. Plant them a few feet away to avoid pest transfer

• Radishes : Help deter squash vine borers, a common pest for summer squash varieties like zucchini

• Dill : Attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that prey on squash pests

• Sunflowers : Provide shade in hot climates and can serve as a natural trellis for climbing plants

• Leeks and Onions : Their strong scent repels aphids and carrot flies, creating a protective barrier around squash

• Lettuce and Spinach : These leafy greens take up little space and can grow in the shade provided by squash leaves, making efficient use of garden space

• Tomatoes : Grow well alongside squash as both thrive in similar conditions; squash’s sprawling nature helps suppress weeds and retain moisture for tomatoes

• Borage : Repels pests and adds calcium to the soil, eventually acting as natural mulch for squash plants

Overall, companion planting with these vegetables, herbs, and flowers can lead to healthier squash plants, better pest control, and improved yields