Growing cabbage can be a rewarding experience, especially when you bite into a homemade coleslaw or cabbage roll that you’ve grown from your own garden.
But as any cabbage connoisseur will tell you, these cruciferous veggies can be a bit finicky, often needing a little extra TLC to thrive.
That’s where companion planting comes in. By pairing cabbage with the right garden buddies, you can improve growth, reduce pests, and even enhance the flavor of your crop.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of cabbage and its 12 best companion plants!
1. Thyme
Thyme is the trusty sidekick that cabbage never knew it needed.
This fragrant herb is not only great in the kitchen but also works wonders as a companion plant.
Thyme can help to repel cabbage moths, a common pest that loves to munch on cabbage leaves.
Additionally, thyme’s strong aroma can mask the scent of your cabbage plants, further deterring pests from finding their way to your prized veggies.
So, go ahead and plant some thyme around your cabbage patch, and rest assured knowing that your leafy greens are protected from unwanted intruders.
2. Tomatoes
Tomatoes, the classic garden staple, can be a helpful ally to your cabbage.
These sun-loving plants can help to keep whiteflies at bay, as they’re not fans of the strong smell that tomato leaves emit.
Tomatoes also repel diamondback moths and other pests that can pose a threat to cabbage.
When planted near each other, tomatoes and cabbage can create a mutually beneficial environment that keeps both plants happy and healthy.
3. Marigolds
Marigolds, the vibrant show-offs of the garden, are more than just pretty faces.
These brightly colored flowers are known to repel a variety of pests, including cabbage worms, aphids, and nematodes.
The strong scent of marigolds can confuse pests, preventing them from finding your cabbage plants.
Additionally, marigolds can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that will happily feast on any lingering pests.
4. Dill
Dill, the feathery herb with a flavor that’s both sharp and delicate, can be a valuable friend to your cabbage plants.
Dill can attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and predatory wasps, which will help to keep cabbage pests under control.
Moreover, dill can help to repel aphids and other insects that can harm your cabbage.
Just remember not to plant dill too close to your cabbage, as it can stunt their growth if it’s planted in direct contact with the cabbage’s roots.
5. Onions
Onions, the pungent bulbs that make our eyes water, can be a fantastic companion to cabbage.
Onions deter pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles, thanks to their strong smell.
They can also help to suppress weeds, leaving more room for your cabbage plants to grow.
Plant onions around the perimeter of your cabbage patch to create a protective barrier against pests and weeds alike.
6. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums, the edible flowers that double as an attractive and useful garden addition, can benefit your cabbage in several ways.
These colorful flowers can help to deter pests like cabbage worms and whiteflies.
Nasturtiums also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which can help to keep pest populations under control.
Plus, their vibrant blooms can add a touch of beauty to your cabbage garden, creating a visually appealing and healthy environment for your plants to thrive.
7. Peas
Peas, the legume that’s as fun to eat as it is to grow, can be a great companion for cabbage plants.
These cool-weather veggies help to fix nitrogen in the soil, providing a natural fertilizer for your cabbage.
Peas also grow well in the same conditions as cabbage, with both plants enjoying cooler temperatures and similar watering needs.
Together, they form a dynamic duo in your garden that can improve soil quality and yield a delicious harvest for your kitchen.
8. Mint
Mint, the fragrant herb that can take over a garden if you let it, can be a helpful ally for cabbage when planted responsibly.
The strong aroma of mint can deter pests like cabbage moths and aphids, protecting your leafy greens from damage.
Mint also attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and predatory wasps, which help to control pest populations.
To prevent mint from taking over your garden, consider planting it in a pot or container near your cabbage patch.
9. Oregano
Oregano, the herb known for its culinary prowess and lovely fragrance, can be a great companion to cabbage.
This hardy herb can help to repel pests like cabbage moths and whiteflies, keeping your cabbage safe from harm.
Oregano also attracts beneficial insects that prey on pests, like ladybugs and lacewings.
Plant oregano throughout your cabbage garden to provide protection and to enjoy the wonderful aroma it adds to the space.
10. Sage
Sage, the robust and flavorful herb, can be another valuable companion to your cabbage plants.
Sage’s strong scent can deter pests like cabbage moths, keeping your cabbage safe from their hungry appetites.
The herb also repels other pests that might target your cabbage plants, like flea beetles and aphids.
Plant sage near your cabbage to create a protective barrier and to enjoy its lovely scent and culinary versatility.
11. Rosemary
Rosemary, the woody and aromatic herb, is an excellent companion plant for cabbage.
Its strong scent can help to deter pests like cabbage moths, protecting your cabbage plants from their hungry larvae.
Rosemary can also help to repel other insects that target cabbage, such as flea beetles and aphids.
Planting rosemary near your cabbage patch can provide protection while also adding a lovely aroma to your garden.
12. Chamomile
Chamomile, the delicate and calming herb, can be a surprising yet effective companion for cabbage.
Chamomile can help to improve the flavor of your cabbage, giving it a subtle and unique taste.
The herb also attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies, ladybugs, and lacewings, which can help to keep pest populations in check.
Add chamomile to your cabbage garden for a touch of beauty and a boost to the flavor of your harvest.
Final Thoughts
By selecting the right companion plants, you can create a healthy and thriving environment for your cabbage to grow.
These 12 companion plants not only offer protection from pests but also provide soil improvement, flavor enhancement, and aesthetic appeal.
So, give your cabbage garden a boost by introducing these beneficial plant partners, and watch your leafy greens flourish. Happy gardening!