Grow Cucumbers with Friends: The Ultimate Guide to Companion Planting
Cucumbers are the stars of many gardens, producing huge yields, growing fast, and requiring a lot of nutrients and water. But did you know that choosing the right companion plants can make them even healthier and more productive?
Companion planting is a combination of science and shared gardening wisdom, passed down from one gardener to another. The basic idea is to strategically plan garden spaces so that plants that benefit each other grow close together, while those that may not get along are kept apart.
By selecting the right companions for your cucumbers, you can improve your garden’s ability to repel pests, attract beneficial insects, enhance soil health, and create an attractive garden design.
Here’s all you need to know to successfully companion plant with cucumbers:
What Cucumbers Need from Companions
Before diving into specific companion plants, let’s understand the general guidelines for beneficial companions for cucumbers:
- Both plants should thrive in the same type of soil with a similar pH level.
- They should have similar light requirements, either requiring full sun or benefiting from shade.
- It’s ideal for annual flowers or herbs to be planted together with annual vegetables for easier crop rotation.
Keep in mind that there are different types of cucumber plants, such as bush varieties and trellised vining varieties, which impact the choice of companions. Bush varieties require more ground space, while vining varieties may need support structures.
Consider the pollination requirements of cucumbers as well when selecting companion plants. Some cucumber varieties may need pollinators, while others are parthenocarpic.
The Best Companion Plants
Now, let’s explore the best companion plants for cucumbers:
1. Beans
Bush beans are excellent companions for cucumbers as they fix nitrogen in the soil. Avoid vining beans to prevent shading cucumber plants.
Try planting ‘Dragon Tongue’ bush beans alongside ‘Marketmore’ cucumbers for a complementary pairing.
2. Borage
Borage attracts pollinators, repels pests, and tastes like cucumbers. Plant borage alongside tomatoes and zucchini for a beneficial trio.
3. Calendula
Calendula’s vibrant blooms attract beneficial insects and repel pests like aphids. Use calendula as a trap crop to protect cucumbers from pests.
4. Carrots
Plant carrots near cucumbers to maximize garden space. Both vegetables thrive in deeply tilled soil and can be grown together successfully.
5. Corn
Corn can provide natural support for vining cucumbers. Consider planting ‘Cucumber’ corn alongside cucumber plants for a mutually beneficial relationship.
6. Dill
Dill attracts beneficial insects that prey on cucumber pests. Plant ‘Bouquet’ dill near cucumbers for increased pest control and pollination.
7. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums deter aphids and attract beneficial insects. Their vibrant blooms create a visually appealing garden when grown alongside cucumbers.
8. Radishes
Radishes repel cucumber beetles and mature quickly, making them excellent companions for cucumbers. Pair ‘Sora’ radishes with cucumbers for a productive garden.
9. Sunflowers
Sunflowers attract pollinators and provide support for climbing plants. Consider growing ‘Lemon Queen’ sunflowers alongside cucumbers for a thriving garden.
Keep Cucumber Plants Away From These
Avoid planting cucumbers near other cucurbits, like squash, to prevent disease spread. Also, keep cucumbers away from potatoes, which may compete for water and disturb their roots.
Lastly, avoid planting pungent herbs like sage near cucumbers, as they may affect the flavor of nearby vegetables.
Cool Friends for Cucumber Plants
Companion planting not only benefits your plants but also sharpens your gardening skills. By observing and experimenting with different plant pairings, you can enhance your gardening experience and promote a healthy garden ecosystem.
Do you have any experience with cucumber companion planting? Share your tips or questions in the comments below.
