Companion Planting for Brussels Sprouts: A Guide to Growing Healthy Crops

Oleh Anonymous January 04, 2022 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

Are you planning to grow Brussels sprouts in your garden? If yes, then you might be wondering what other plants should you grow alongside them. Companion planting is an age-old practice of growing two or more types of plants together to maximize their benefits and minimize their drawbacks. In this article, we will explore some of the best companion plants for Brussels sprouts and how they can help you grow a healthy crop.

What are Brussels sprouts?

Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) are small, green leafy vegetables that grow on tall stalks. They belong to the same family as broccoli, kale, and cauliflower, and are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, iron, and potassium. Brussels sprouts are cool-season crops that require full sun and well-draining soil to thrive.

Companion Plants for Brussels Sprouts

1. Beans

Beans are a great companion plant for Brussels sprouts as they are nitrogen-fixing plants that add nitrogen to the soil, which helps fuel the growth of the Brussels sprouts. Moreover, beans also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that feed on pests like aphids and caterpillars, which can damage the Brussels sprouts.

How to plant beans with Brussels sprouts?

Plant bush beans between rows of Brussels sprouts or pole beans at the base of each plant. Avoid planting beans too close to the Brussels sprouts as they may compete for nutrients and water.

2. Carrots

Carrots make great companion plants for Brussels sprouts as they have a shallow root system that does not compete with the deep taproots of Brussels sprouts. Moreover, carrots also attract beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and tachinid flies that attack pests like cabbage worms and aphids.

How to plant carrots with Brussels sprouts?

Plant carrots in rows between the Brussels sprouts or interplant them with the Brussels sprouts. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and free of rocks and debris to allow the carrots to grow straight.

3. Dill

Dill is a herb that attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and ladybugs that feed on pests like aphids and caterpillars. Moreover, dill also improves the flavor of Brussels sprouts and repels some harmful insects like spider mites and cabbage loopers.

How to plant dill with Brussels sprouts?

Plant dill seeds in small clumps around the Brussels sprouts, or use it as a border plant. Harvest the dill leaves before they flower to prevent them from self-seeding and becoming invasive.

4. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are edible flowers that attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and ladybugs that feed on pests like aphids and caterpillars. Moreover, nasturtiums also add color to your garden and repel some harmful insects like whiteflies and squash bugs.

How to plant nasturtiums with Brussels sprouts?

Plant nasturtiums around the base of each Brussels sprout plant, or use them as a border plant. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and moist to allow the nasturtiums to thrive.

5. Onions

Onions are a great companion plant for Brussels sprouts as they repel some harmful insects like cabbage maggots and carrot flies. Moreover, onions also improve the flavor of Brussels sprouts and add nutrients to the soil.

How to plant onions with Brussels sprouts?

Plant onions in rows between the Brussels sprouts or interplant them with the Brussels sprouts. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile to allow the onions to thrive.

6. Sage

Sage is a herb that repels some harmful insects like cabbage moths and flea beetles. Moreover, sage also improves the flavor of Brussels sprouts and has anti-inflammatory properties.

How to plant sage with Brussels sprouts?

Plant sage around the base of each Brussels sprout plant, or use it as a border plant. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile to allow the sage to thrive.

7. Spinach

Spinach is a leafy vegetable that adds nutrients to the soil and attracts beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and tachinid flies that attack pests like cabbage worms and aphids. Moreover, spinach also shades the soil and reduces the growth of weeds.

How to plant spinach with Brussels sprouts?

Plant spinach in rows between the Brussels sprouts or interplant them with the Brussels sprouts. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile to allow the spinach to thrive.

8. Thyme

Thyme is a herb that repels some harmful insects like cabbage loopers and whiteflies. Moreover, thyme also improves the flavor of Brussels sprouts and has antibacterial properties.

How to plant thyme with Brussels sprouts?

Plant thyme around the base of each Brussels sprout plant, or use it as a border plant. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile to allow the thyme to thrive.

9. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a great companion plant for Brussels sprouts as they attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that feed on pests like aphids and caterpillars. Moreover, tomatoes also add nutrients to the soil and improve the flavor of Brussels sprouts.

How to plant tomatoes with Brussels sprouts?

Plant tomatoes in rows between the Brussels sprouts or interplant them with the Brussels sprouts. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile to allow the tomatoes to thrive.

10. Yarrow

Yarrow is a herb that attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps that attack pests like aphids and caterpillars. Moreover, yarrow also adds nutrients to the soil and has medicinal properties.

How to plant yarrow with Brussels sprouts?

Plant yarrow around the base of each Brussels sprout plant, or use it as a border plant. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile to allow the yarrow to thrive.

In companion planting is a great way to grow healthy Brussels sprouts without relying on harmful pesticides and fertilizers. By growing companion plants alongside your Brussels sprouts, you can attract beneficial insects, repel harmful insects, enrich the soil, and improve the flavor of your crops. So, go ahead and experiment with different companion plants to see which ones work best for you.

FAQs

1. What are the benefits of companion planting?

Companion planting provides many benefits, such as attracting beneficial insects, repelling harmful insects, improving soil health, and enhancing the flavor of crops.

2. Which plants should not be planted with Brussels sprouts?

Plants that belong to the same family as Brussels sprouts, such as broccoli, kale, and cauliflower, should not be planted together as they may attract the same pests and diseases.

3. How far apart should companion plants be planted from Brussels sprouts?

Companion plants should be planted at least 18 inches away from Brussels sprouts to avoid competition for nutrients and water.

4. Can I plant more than one companion plant with Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can plant multiple companion plants with Brussels sprouts. In fact, growing a diverse array of plants can help promote a healthy ecosystem in your garden.

5. Do I need to use pesticides if I grow companion plants with Brussels sprouts?

No, you do not need to use pesticides if you grow companion plants with Brussels sprouts as they attract beneficial insects that feed on pests. However, if you notice an infestation, you can use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap.