Companion Planting: Maximizing Growth Through Strategic Pairings

Companion planting adapts traditional knowledge to Louisiana's unique growing conditions. Understanding how plants interact helps create resilient gardens that withstand our heat, humidity, and long growing seasons.

Benefits for Louisiana Gardens

• Natural pest management suitable for our climate, reducing the need for chemical interventions Improved soil health in challenging clay or sandy soils through diverse root systems
• Maximized space in raised beds and container gardens, essential for urban gardens
• Enhanced resilience during extreme weather events common to our region
• Better pollination through strategic flower placement
• Reduced water needs through complementary plant relationships

Louisiana-Tested Combinations

• Okra & Peppers – Okra's height provides afternoon shade for peppers while maintaining good airflow
• Sweet Potatoes & Bush Beans – Sweet potatoes prevent soil erosion while beans add nitrogen; both thrive in our long summers
• Tomatoes & Basil – Traditional pairing that thrives in our heat; basil deters many tomato pests
• Eggplant & Marigolds – Marigolds deter nematodes common in Louisiana soils and attract beneficial insects
• Cucumbers & Nasturtiums – Nasturtiums attract pollinators and deter pests while providing edible flowers
• Mirlitons & Herbs – Our local squash variety benefits from aromatic herbs that confuse pest insects

Avoid pairing crops with similar disease susceptibility - especially nightshades. Space for air circulation to prevent fungal issues; vertical gardening can maximize airflow in our humidity.

Happy planting!

Mandy Hatman MA/MALS

As a newly minted Master Gardener, Mandy specializes in sustainable practices, native species, and reluctantly attending group events. ​