What to Plant With Brussel Sprouts: Companion Gardening Tips
What to Plant With Brussel Sprouts?
When planting Brussels sprouts, it is recommended to companion plant them with basil, mint, garlic, marigolds, nasturtiums, mustard, beets, carrots, onions, and dill.
However, it is best to avoid planting strawberries, kohlrabi, and pole beans near Brussels sprouts.
Key Points:
- Recommended companion plants:
- basil
- mint
- garlic
- marigolds
- nasturtiums
- mustard
- beets
- carrots
- onions
-
dill
-
Avoid planting strawberries, kohlrabi, and pole beans near Brussels sprouts.
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that planting beneficial companion plants like thyme and sage alongside Brussels sprouts can help deter pests such as cabbage moths and aphids? These aromatic herbs release powerful scents that act as natural repellents.
2. While Brussels sprouts are known for their distinct flavor, planting them near onions can actually enhance their taste. Onions release a chemical compound called allium, which can intensify the savory notes in Brussels sprouts.
3. To maximize space in your garden, try interplanting Brussels sprouts with taller crops like corn or sunflowers. The shade provided by these plants can help protect Brussels sprouts from excessive sun exposure and prevent them from bolting.
4. Brussels sprouts are known as a cool-weather crop, but did you know that some varieties are more heat-tolerant than others? If you live in a warmer climate, consider planting heat-resistant cultivars like ‘Oliver’ or ‘Crispus’ to ensure a successful harvest.
5. When it comes to pollinators, Brussels sprouts rely on the help of bees for effective cross-pollination and the development of healthy sprouts. So, be sure to plant nectar-rich flowers nearby, such as lavender or borage, to attract these essential pollinators to your garden.
Suitable Companion Plants For Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a popular choice among gardeners due to their distinct flavor and nutritional benefits. To maximize their growth and protect them from pests, it is crucial to select suitable companion plants. Fortunately, there are several options available to ensure a successful companion gardening experience.
Basil is an excellent companion plant for Brussels sprouts as it not only enhances their flavor but also repels pests like aphids and whiteflies. Similarly, mint works well as it deters cabbage worms and flea beetles while benefiting from the shade provided by the Brussels sprout plants. Another valuable companion is garlic, which repels aphids, caterpillars, and spider mites, thereby protecting both the Brussels sprout plants and their neighboring companions.
In terms of flowers, marigolds and nasturtiums serve a dual purpose in a Brussels sprout garden. Marigolds repel nematodes, whiteflies, and aphids, while nasturtiums attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which prey on pests in the garden. Furthermore, mustard is a versatile plant that can be grown as a cover crop or interplanted between the Brussels sprout plants. It acts as a natural biofumigant, releasing chemicals that suppress harmful soil-borne pests such as nematodes.
Additionally, several vegetables and herbs can be compatible companion plants for Brussels sprouts. Beets enrich the soil with nutrients, carrots help improve soil structure, onions act as a natural insect repellent, and dill attracts beneficial insects such as wasps and predatory beetles that devour pests. By incorporating these plants into your Brussels sprout garden, you can promote healthy growth and discourage the presence of pests.
Brussels Sprouts’ Ideal Companions For A Thriving Garden
In a Brussels sprout garden, incorporating compatible companion plants can lead to a thriving and healthy ecosystem. These plants not only enhance the growth of Brussels sprouts but also provide a range of benefits, including pest control, soil improvement, and pollination assistance.
Basil, mint, and garlic, with their aromatic properties, act as natural pest deterrents. Their scents confuse and repel insects, reducing the likelihood of infestations. Marigolds and nasturtiums not only offer a burst of color but also attract beneficial insects that feed on pests that would otherwise harm the Brussels sprout plants.
Mustard, apart from its culinary uses, serves as an effective natural pest control method when planted alongside Brussels sprouts. It produces compounds called glucosinolates, which decompose into substances that repel pests. This is especially helpful for deterring nematodes, which can damage the roots of Brussels sprout plants.
The addition of beets, carrots, onions, and dill to the Brussels sprout garden offers numerous benefits. Beets enrich the soil with organic matter and essential nutrients, while carrots help break up compacted soil, improving drainage. Onions not only deter pests but also release compounds that reduce the likelihood of disease. Lastly, dill attracts parasitic wasps and predatory beetles that prey on pests, ensuring a healthy balance in the garden ecosystem.
Planting Recommendations For Brussels Sprouts’ Companions
To successfully companion plant with Brussels sprouts, it is important to consider the optimal conditions for each plant. Start by selecting healthy seedlings or young plants for all the companions mentioned above. Ideally, companion plants should be planted after the Brussels sprouts have been planted and are well-established.
When planting basil, mint, and garlic, ensure they receive partial shade from the Brussels sprouts to prevent them from being overshadowed. Space the plants accordingly, leaving enough room for growth and airflow. Intermingle marigolds and nasturtiums among the Brussels sprout plants to maximize their pest-repellent properties and create a visually appealing garden.
Mustard can be planted as a cover crop between rows of Brussels sprouts. As it grows, chop it down and work it into the soil, allowing it to decompose and release its pest-repelling compounds. Beets, carrots, and onions can be planted in close proximity to the Brussels sprouts, taking care not to crowd or shade them. Dill can be sown in rows adjacent to the Brussels sprouts or in clusters throughout the garden to attract beneficial insects.
Avoid Planting These Crops Near Brussels Sprouts
Although companion planting can greatly benefit Brussels sprouts, some crops should be avoided as they may have negative effects on growth and development. Strawberries, for example, should not be planted near Brussels sprouts. Both crops have similar light and water requirements, and their root systems can compete for nutrients and space, resulting in stunted growth for both plants.
Kohlrabi is another plant to avoid near Brussels sprouts. Both plants belong to the same family, Brassicaceae, and can attract common pests and diseases such as cabbage worms and clubroot. In addition, kohlrabi may outgrow and shade the Brussels sprout plants, hindering their ability to receive adequate sunlight.
Pole beans should also be kept away from Brussels sprouts. While pole beans are known for their nitrogen-fixing abilities, they can overwhelm the growth of Brussels sprout plants due to their vigorous climbing nature. The beans’ sprawling vines can smother the Brussels sprouts, leading to reduced yields and compromised health.
companion planting can vastly improve the growth and health of Brussels sprouts. Basil, mint, garlic, marigolds, nasturtiums, mustard, beets, carrots, onions, and dill are all suitable companions that contribute to a thriving Brussels sprout garden. However, it is important to avoid planting strawberries, kohlrabi, and pole beans near Brussels sprouts to ensure optimal growth and avoid competition or overshadowing. By carefully selecting compatible companion plants, gardeners can create a harmonious and productive garden that benefits all its inhabitants.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should not be planted near Brussels sprouts?
In order to ensure healthy and thriving Brussels sprouts, it is advisable to avoid planting them near other heavy feeders like tomatoes and eggplants. These nightshades share a similar appetite for nutrients and would end up competing with the Brussels sprouts for essential resources. Therefore, it is best to keep these plants separate to maximize their growth potential and avoid any nutrient deficiencies that may arise from the competition.
What do brussel sprouts pair well with?
Brussels sprouts pair exceptionally well with a variety of dishes, allowing for endless possibilities. For a succulent combination, try pairing them with grilled salmon, the slightly charred fish contrasting with the earthiness of the sprouts. Alternatively, consider serving them alongside a juicy roasted pork tenderloin, as the richness of the meat complements the sprouts’ nutty flavor. Whether you opt for beef, chicken, or any other meat, brussels sprouts prove to be a versatile and delightful side dish.
What plants don’t like brussel sprouts?
When it comes to companion planting, Brussels sprouts should steer clear of strawberries and members of the nightshade family, like tomatoes. Strawberries can impede the growth of Brussels sprouts, while Brussels sprouts can have an adverse effect on the growth of nightshade plants. Thus, it’s best to keep these plants separated to ensure optimal growth for both.
Do brussel sprouts like direct sunlight?
Brussels sprouts, like many plants in the cabbage family, indeed thrive in direct sunlight. They require full sun exposure to grow healthy and produce abundant harvests. Additionally, to safeguard against soil-borne diseases and promote overall plant health, it is advised to rotate Brussels sprouts to different areas of the garden each season. By doing so, it helps prevent the buildup of disease-causing pathogens and ensures the optimal growth conditions for these delicious vegetables.