9 Proven Must Have Arugula Companion Plants

This spicy salad green, arugula, has taken home gardens by storm! Its unique peppery kick and nutritional punch have made it a must-have for salads, sandwiches, and dishes around the world.

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What Is Arugula Companion Planting?

Growing arugula isn’t always smooth sailing. Gardeners often face foes like bolting (early flowering) that zaps the leafy goodness, and pesky insects like aphids and flea beetles that love to munch on those delicate greens.

Here’s where companion planting comes in – a time-tested gardening trick that’s a natural solution to these problems. By strategically planting arugula with the right companions, you can say goodbye to bolting and hello to a healthier, more abundant harvest!

Benefits of Companion Planting?

Companion planting isn’t just a fad; it’s a powerful technique for boosting the health and productivity of your garden. By strategically choosing companion plants for your arugula, you can unlock a multitude of advantages.

Supercharge Growth and Yield:

Imagine arugula plants thriving instead of just surviving. When paired with compatible companions, that’s exactly what happens. Some plants act as nutritional bodyguards, complementing arugula’s specific needs. Others, like leafy greens or taller vegetables, provide much-needed shade during hot weather. This creates an optimal environment for arugula to flourish, resulting in healthier, more vigorous plants and ultimately, abundant harvests.

Nature’s Pest Patrol:

One of the biggest advantages of companion planting is its ability to naturally deter pests and attract beneficial insects. This eliminates the need for harsh chemicals! By interplanting arugula with insect-repelling companions like onions or herbs, you can create a natural defense against common pests like aphids and flea beetles. Additionally, planting flowers or certain vegetables that attract ladybugs and lacewings creates a haven for beneficial predators, further controlling pest populations and promoting a healthy balance in your garden ecosystem.

Embrace the Synergy: A Thriving Garden Awaits

By incorporating companion planting into your arugula cultivation practices, you’re not just optimizing your crop’s growth and yield. You’re also promoting ecological resilience and sustainability in your garden. By harnessing the natural synergy between arugula and its companion plants, you can cultivate a thriving garden ecosystem that flourishes year after year, rewarding you with bountiful harvests and a thriving, balanced garden environment.

Best Arugula Companion Plants

Choosing the right companions can take your arugula from good to great! Here’s a breakdown of some all-star plants categorized by how they’ll boost your arugula crop:

Arugula Growth Enhancers Companion Plants
Arugula Pest Control Companion Plants
Arugula Soil Health Boosters Companion Plants

1- Arugula Growth Enhancers Companion Plants

1-1. Lettuce: The Cool & Calm Companion for Arugula

Lettuce isn’t just a salad superstar; it’s also a hidden hero for your arugula! Here’s why:

Shade Master:Lettuce’s broad leaves act like a natural umbrella. They filter sunlight, creating dappled shade that keeps arugula cool and prevents scorching during hot weather.
Moisture Maestro:Not only does the shade reduce water loss from the soil, but lettuce also helps regulate soil moisture. This creates a more consistent environment for arugula, preventing stress from drying out.
Happy Roots:Lettuce has a shallow root system that keeps the soil aerated and improves its structure. This translates to better water retention and easier access to nutrients for both the lettuce and your arugula.

By growing alongside lettuce, arugula enjoys a more hospitable microclimate. Less competition for resources, combined with protection from environmental stressors, means your arugula will thrive!

1-2. Radishes: A Spicy Shield for Your Arugula

Radishes are more than just a peppery salad topper; they’re superheroes for your arugula! Here’s why:

Pest Repellent Power:Radishes emit odors that many pests find offensive, acting as a natural shield against common enemies like aphids and cucumber beetles. This keeps your arugula safe and sound!
Protecting from Below:Radishes don’t just deter above-ground pests – they help with soil-borne foes too! Their roots attract root maggots and wireworms, diverting them away from your precious arugula.
Speedy Weed Control:Radishes grow like champs, outcompeting weeds for space and resources. This creates a less hospitable environment for pests and promotes a healthier overall growing environment for your arugula.

By planting radishes alongside your arugula, you’re creating a double layer of defense against pests and weeds, giving your arugula the best chance to thrive!

1-3. Chives: The Fragrant Bodyguard for Your Arugula

Don’t underestimate the power of the humble chive! These little green warriors offer big benefits for your arugula:

Pest Repellent Power:Chives have a strong, oniony scent that’s like kryptonite to pests like aphids and carrot flies. They simply can’t stand the smell, keeping your arugula safe from harm.
Beneficial Bug Buddies:The same scent that repels bad guys attracts good guys! Hoverflies and ladybugs love chives, and they’re natural predators that gobble up those pesky aphids. This creates a balanced ecosystem in your garden, keeping pest populations in check naturally.
Space-Saving Sprouts:Chives have thin foliage that takes up minimal space. You can interplant them directly with your arugula or grow them in nearby containers – they’re practically maintenance-free companions!

By planting chives alongside your arugula, you get a double whammy: natural pest control and a boost to the overall garden ecosystem. Plus, you get delicious chives for your salads! It’s a win-win for everyone (except the aphids).

2. Arugula Pest Control Companion Plants

2.1 Nasturtiums: Nature’s Bodyguards for Arugula

Nasturtiums aren’t just pretty flowers; they’re superheroes for your arugula! Here’s why:

Beneficial Bug Buffet:Nasturtiums are like a five-star restaurant for good bugs! Ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies love to feast on the pests that threaten your arugula. With a steady stream of these natural predators around, aphid populations stay in check – naturally!
Pest Repellent Power:Aphids hate nasturtiums as much as you hate them on your arugula. The peppery scent and taste of nasturtium leaves are a major turn-off for these sap-sucking pests, keeping your arugula safe and sound.
Bonus Benefits:Nasturtiums are easy growers and thrive in most conditions. Their sprawling foliage acts like a living mulch, suppressing weeds and keeping the soil moist. Plus, their vibrant blooms add a touch of beauty to your garden!

Planting nasturtiums with your arugula creates a win-win situation. You get a natural defense system against pests, a boost to good bugs, and beautiful flowers – all while promoting a healthy and balanced garden ecosystem.

2.2 Basil: Double Duty Delight for Your Arugula

Basil isn’t just delicious in pesto; it’s a multi-talented companion for your arugula! Here’s why:

Pest Repellent Power:Basil’s strong scent is like a secret code for pests – “Danger! Stay Away!” Those aromatic compounds confuse and deter aphids, mosquitoes, and beetles, creating a natural shield around your arugula.
Soil Superstar:Basil’s roots are like tiny factories, releasing beneficial compounds into the soil. These improve soil health, promote good microbes, and make nutrients more available for your arugula to thrive.
Happy Roots, Happy Arugula:Basil’s leaves act like a living umbrella, providing shade and helping retain moisture in the soil. This creates a cooler, more comfortable environment for your arugula roots.

Plus, basil thrives in warm, sunny spots alongside your arugula, and its leaves are perfect for adding a flavorful touch to your meals. It’s a win-win for both taste and your garden ecosystem!

2.3 Marigolds: Nature’s Armor for Your Arugula

Don’t let the cheerful blooms fool you; marigolds are tough garden warriors perfect for protecting your arugula! Here’s why:

Pest Repellent Powerhouse:Marigolds have a secret weapon – their fragrance! It contains terpenes that repel a whole army of bad guys, including nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies. This strong scent confuses pests and masks the smell of your arugula, making them stay far away.
Weed Whacking Wonders:Marigolds are allelopathic, meaning they release chemicals that suppress weeds and some soil-borne diseases. This translates to less competition for your arugula and a healthier overall growing environment.
Easy on the Eyes, Easy to Grow:Marigolds are low-maintenance companions that thrive alongside your arugula. Their vibrant blooms add a pop of color to your garden, and their pest-repelling properties provide vital protection for your crop.

Planting marigolds with your arugula is a one-two punch against pests and weeds. You get beautiful flowers, a healthier garden, and happy, thriving arugula – all thanks to the power of nature!

3. Arugula Soil Health Boosters Companion Plants

3.1. Legumes: Nitrogen Powerhouses for Your Arugula

Legumes like peas and beans are superstar companions for your arugula! Here’s why:

Nitrogen Fixers:Legumes have a secret superpower – they team up with tiny bacteria to pull nitrogen from the air and turn it into a form plants can use! This enriched soil becomes a nitrogen goldmine for your arugula.
Happy and Healthy Arugula:Nitrogen is like plant food, and legumes provide a steady supply. This translates to lush foliage, strong growth, and potentially even bigger harvests for your arugula.
Building a Better Soil:As legumes grow, their roots break up compacted soil and improve drainage. Plus, when they decompose at the end of the season, they release even more nutrients, making the soil even richer for future crops, including your arugula.

By planting legumes alongside your arugula, you’re giving it a double boost: a steady supply of nitrogen for healthy growth and a more fertile soil environment for future success!

3.2. Clover: The Tiny Powerhouse for Happy Arugula

Don’t underestimate the power of the little clover! Here’s why it’s a perfect companion for your arugula:

Weed Whacker:Clover’s thick, low-growing foliage forms a natural green carpet, blocking sunlight and stifling weed growth. This means less competition for your arugula and less time spent weeding!
Moisture Maestro:Clover’s roots act like tiny sponges, helping retain water in the soil. This is especially beneficial for arugula, which thrives in consistently moist conditions. Less watering for you, happy arugula all season long!
Soil Superhero:As clover decomposes, it adds organic matter to the soil, improving its structure and fertility. This creates a healthy environment for arugula roots to grow and thrive. Bonus: Clover, like peas and beans, can fix nitrogen from the air, providing another source of nutrients for your arugula.

Planting clover with your arugula offers a triple threat against weeds, water loss, and poor soil health. It’s a tiny plant with a big impact on your arugula’s success!

3.3. Comfrey: The Deep-Digging Nutrient King for Your Arugula

Comfrey isn’t your average garden companion; it’s a nutrient-mining machine for your arugula! Here’s why:

Deep Root Diver:Unlike arugula’s shallow roots, comfrey dives deep into the soil, unlocking hidden treasures – essential minerals and trace elements. These nutrients get stored in comfrey’s leaves, ready to be released!
Nutrient Reservoir:Comfrey leaves are loaded with nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and more – all the good stuff plants need to thrive. As the leaves decompose, they release these nutrients into the soil, feeding your arugula directly.
Moisture Maestro:Decomposing comfrey leaves act like a natural blanket, keeping the soil moist – perfect for arugula, which loves consistent moisture.

Comfrey is a low-maintenance powerhouse. It keeps growing year after year, providing a constant source of nutrients and improved soil health for your arugula. With comfrey by its side, your arugula will enjoy vigorous growth and overall good health!

What NOT to Plant with Arugula

While we’ve explored some superstar companions for your arugula, here are some plants to avoid planting nearby:

Family Feud: Arugula is a Brassicaceae family member. Planting it next to broccoli, or cabbage can invite unwanted family drama in the form of pests and diseases that love both plants.

Shade Snatchers: Arugula prefers some sunshine. Avoid planting tall neighbors like sunflowers, corn, or large tomato plants that might steal its spotlight and leave it weak and spindly.

Root Rascals: Plants with aggressive root systems, like mint or horseradish, are greedy neighbors. Their roots will compete with your arugula for water and nutrients, leaving it stunted and unhappy.

By avoiding these plants as companions for arugula, you can help ensure that your arugula crop receives the optimal growing conditions it needs to thrive and produce a bountiful harvest.

Arugula Landscape : Planting and Growing with Companion Plants.

Ready to create a thriving haven for your arugula? Here’s a guide to planting and growing it alongside its best companions:

Picking the Perfect Plot:

Sunshine or Soft Shade:Arugula enjoys some sun. Aim for a spot that gets at least 6 hours a day, or dappled shade for very hot climates.
Soil Prep Superstar:Loosen the soil up to 8 inches deep and enrich it with compost or aged manure. This creates a fluffy, fertile home for your plants.
Space Cadets:Remember to plan your garden layout considering both arugula and its companions. Give them enough space to avoid overcrowding – check the seed packets for specific spacing recommendations.

Planting Powerhouse:

Seeding Soldiers:Sow arugula seeds directly in your garden bed, spacing them 6-8 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart. You can also transplant seedlings with the same spacing.
Companion Crew:Plant your companion plants around the edges of the arugula bed or scatter them amongst the rows. Just make sure they all have enough space to breathe.
Watering Wisdom:Water your newly planted seeds or seedlings well. You want the soil moist, not soggy. Arugula prefers good drainage, so avoid overwatering.

Keeping Your Garden Thriving:

Mulch Magic:Spread a layer of mulch (straw or shredded leaves work well) around your plants. This helps retain moisture, keeps weeds at bay, and regulates soil temperature.
Guarding the Green:Keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Take action quickly if you see any problems. Additionally, remove any weeds that try to steal resources from your arugula and its companions.
Support System:For taller companion plants, provide support like stakes or trellises. This prevents them from casting too much shade on your arugula.

By following these steps, you can create a flourishing garden bed where your arugula and its companions thrive together. It’s a win-win for a beautiful and productive garden ecosystem!

Bonus Section: Level Up Your Garden with arugula Companion Planting

You’ve mastered the basics of planting arugula with its best buddies. Now, let’s take it up a notch with these bonus tips:

Harvesting Happiness:Don’t stop at one arugula planting! Plan successive plantings throughout the season. This way, you’ll have a steady stream of fresh, peppery goodness.
Diversity is Key:Mix and match different arugula varieties and companion plants. This creates a more biodiverse garden, which is naturally more resilient to pests and diseases.
Pollinator Party:Attract bees and butterflies with flowering companions like lavender or calendula. These pollinators not only add beauty to your garden but also help some plants produce more fruits and seeds, including arugula (if it bolts and produces flowers).
Flavor Fiesta:Plant herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill alongside your arugula. They’ll not only deter pests and attract good bugs, but you’ll have fresh herbs readily available for all your culinary creations!
Garden Guru:Be observant! Watch how your plants interact with each other and the overall garden environment. Based on what you see, adjust your companion planting strategies as needed to create the perfect balance for your garden.

By following these bonus tips, you can transform your garden into a thriving ecosystem buzzing with life. Your arugula and its companions will thank you for it, rewarding you with a flourishing harvest and a beautiful, balanced garden space.

Conclusion: Arugula Companion Planting Power

Companion planting isn’t just a fancy term; it’s about creating a dream team for your arugula! Here’s why it’s awesome:

Happy and Healthy Arugula:The right companions boost growth, deter pests naturally, and improve the soil – all adding up to thriving arugula.
Nature’s Bug Patrol:Beneficial insects like ladybugs love companion plants, keeping the bad bugs away from your arugula.
Soil Superstar:Companion plants can help retain moisture and enrich the soil, creating a perfect environment for arugula roots.

By using companion planting, you can say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to a balanced garden ecosystem. It’s a win for you, a win for your arugula, and a win for the environment!

Ready to Experiment?

Get creative and try different companion plant combinations. Observe how the plants interact and adjust your strategy as needed. Remember, gardening is all about learning and having fun!

So grab your seeds, get planting, and watch your arugula patch transform into a flourishing haven of flavor and abundance. Happy gardening!

General inquiries about companion planting with arugula:

Q: What are the benefits of companion planting for arugula?
A: Companion planting offers a multitude of advantages:
- Boosted Growth:The right companions can enhance arugula’s growth and yield.
- Natural Pest Control:Beneficial insects attracted by companion plants help keep harmful pests away from your arugula.
- Happy Soil:Companion plants can improve soil health by retaining moisture and adding nutrients, creating a thriving environment for arugula roots.
Q: Which plants make good companions for arugula?
A: Arugula has many great companions! Here are some popular choices:
- Leafy greens:Lettuce, spinach
- Roots:Radishes, carrots (be mindful of planting time)
- Herbs:Basil, chives, dill
- Flowers:Marigolds, nasturtiums

Q: How should I prepare my garden bed for arugula and its companions?

A: Loosen the soil up to 8 inches deep and enrich it with compost or aged manure. Plan your layout considering the mature size of both arugula and its companions to ensure adequate spacing.
Q: Should I sow arugula seeds directly or transplant seedlings?
A: Both methods work! Choose based on your preference and local conditions.
Q: How often should I water?
A: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Mulching helps retain moisture and reduces watering frequency.
Q: What are common arugula problems, and how can companion planting help?
A: Aphids and flea beetles are common pests. Beneficial insects attracted by companion plants like basil and marigolds can help deter them naturally.
Q: Can I experiment with different companion plants?
A: Absolutely! Experimentation is part of the gardening fun. Observe how plants interact and adjust your strategy as needed.
Q: How can I attract beneficial insects to my arugula patch?
A:Plant flowering companions like lavender or calendula. These attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can improve overall garden health.
Q: What should I do if I encounter problems?
A:Regularly monitor your garden for pests or diseases. Take appropriate action such as hand-picking pests or using natural control methods. Adapt your companion planting strategies based on your observations.