Snap Pea Companion Plants: The Ultimate Guide

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Snap peas are a popular garden vegetable that many people love to grow at home. They are delicious, easy to grow, and packed with nutrients. But did you know that snap peas can also benefit from having companion plants growing alongside them? In this article, we'll explore the best snap pea companion plants, why they work so well together, and how to grow them successfully.

The Benefits of Growing Snap Pea Companion Plants

Companion planting is an ancient gardening technique that involves planting different crops together to enhance growth, improve soil quality, and deter pests. When it comes to snap peas, there are several reasons why you might want to consider planting companion crops alongside them:

Improved Soil Quality

Snap peas are nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they have the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by other plants. By growing snap peas alongside other crops, you can improve the overall health of your soil and provide important nutrients for your garden.

Pest Control

Certain plants, such as marigolds and nasturtiums, are known to repel pests like aphids and spider mites. Planting these companion crops alongside your snap peas can help keep your garden healthy and pest-free.

Better Yield

Companion planting can also help increase crop yield by providing necessary shade, support, and nutrients to your snap peas. This can result in healthier plants and larger harvests.

The Best Snap Pea Companion Plants

Now that we understand the benefits of companion planting, let's take a closer look at some of the best snap pea companion plants you can grow in your garden.

1. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a colorful and easy-to-grow flower that can help deter pests like aphids and whiteflies. They also provide important shade for your snap peas during hot summer months.

How to Plant Nasturtiums with Snap Peas

Plant nasturtiums alongside your snap peas in early spring, after all danger of frost has passed. Space them about 6-12 inches apart and water regularly.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another great option for deterring pests in your garden. They have a strong scent that repels many common pests, including nematodes and whiteflies.

How to Plant Marigolds with Snap Peas

Plant marigolds between your snap pea rows or around the perimeter of your garden. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

3. Radishes

Radishes are a fast-growing root vegetable that can help break up compacted soil and improve soil quality for your snap peas.

How to Plant Radishes with Snap Peas

Plant radishes alongside your snap peas in early spring, before the snap peas to climb. This will give the radishes time to mature and break up the soil before the snap peas need the space.

4. Carrots

Carrots are a good companion plant for snap peas because they have a similar growth habit and do not compete for resources. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

How to Plant Carrots with Snap Peas

Plant carrots alongside your snap peas in early spring, before the snap peas to climb. Space them about 3-4 inches apart and water regularly.

5. Beans

Beans are another nitrogen-fixing plant that can benefit from growing alongside snap peas. They also provide important shade and support for your snap pea plants.

How to Plant Beans with Snap Peas

Plant beans alongside your snap peas in early spring, after all danger of frost has passed. Space them about 6-12 inches apart and water regularly.

Tips for Growing Snap Pea Companion Plants

Now that you know which companion plants work well with snap peas, here are some tips for growing them successfully:

1. Choose Complementary Crops

When choosing companion crops, look for plants that have similar growing requirements and do not compete for resources. This will help ensure that both crops grow healthy and strong.

2. Plan Your Garden Layout

Before planting, plan out your garden layout to make sure you have enough space for all of your crops. Consider factors like sunlight, soil quality, and water availability when deciding where to plant each crop.

3. Water Regularly

All plants need regular watering to thrive, so make sure to water your snap peas and companion crops regularly. Aim for one inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.

4. Mulch Your Garden

Mulching is a great way to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic materials like straw, leaves, or grass clippings to mulch your garden beds.

5. Monitor for Pests

Regularly monitor your garden for pests and take action as soon as you spot any signs of infestation. This can include using natural pest control methods, like handpicking or companion planting, or using organic pesticides as a last resort.


Snap pea companion plants offer many benefits to your garden, including improved soil quality, pest control, and better yield. By choosing the right companion crops and following these tips for successful growing, you can create a thriving and healthy garden that produces delicious snap peas and other vegetables.

FAQs

1. What is companion planting?

Companion planting is an ancient gardening technique that involves planting different crops together to enhance growth, improve soil quality, and deter pests.

2. Can I plant snap peas with tomatoes?

No, it is not recommended to plant snap peas with tomatoes because they have different growing requirements and can compete for resources.

3. How far apart should I plant snap peas and their companion crops?

The spacing will depend on the specific companion crop, but in general, aim for 6-12 inches between plants.

4. Can I plant snap peas with herbs?

Yes, many herbs make great companion plants for snap peas, including basil, mint, and parsley.

5. What are some other nitrogen-fixing plants I can grow with snap peas?

Other nitrogen-fixing plants that work well with snap peas include clover, alfalfa, and soybeans.

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