Struggling with stunted or pest-ridden eggplants? You’re not alone. Many gardeners face these common challenges, but there’s a secret weapon you might not have considered: companion planting. By strategically placing eggplant companion plants in your garden, you can boost growth, deter pests, and ultimately maximize your harvest. Read on to uncover the best companions for your eggplants and transform your garden into a thriving oasis.
Benefits of Companion Planting with Eggplants
Growing eggplants can sometimes be challenging, but companion planting can make a big difference. Here are some ways companion plants can benefit your eggplants:
Bigger, Tastier Eggplants
Nitrogen-fixing plants like beans enrich the soil, leading to better growth and tastier eggplants. Beans naturally add nitrogen to the soil, which is essential for plant growth. When you plant beans near your eggplants, they help provide the nutrients needed for your eggplants to grow larger and taste better.
Say Goodbye to Pests
Specific plants like marigolds repel harmful insects with their strong scent, protecting your precious eggplants. Marigolds have a strong scent that many harmful insects dislike. Planting marigolds near your eggplants can keep pests away naturally, helping your eggplants stay healthy and pest-free.
More Eggplants, Less Work
Companion plants like nasturtiums attract pollinators, leading to increased fruit production and less effort for you. Nasturtiums are great at attracting pollinators like bees. When you plant them near your eggplants, more pollinators visit your garden, which can lead to more eggplants without you having to do extra work.
Top Eggplant Companion Plants
Companion planting can significantly benefit your eggplants by improving soil health, repelling pests, and enhancing growth. Here are some top companion plants for eggplants:
Nitrogen Fixing Plants
1- Beans
- Botanical Name: Phaseolus vulgaris
- Planting Time: Plant bush beans at the same time as eggplants, in late spring after the last frost.
One of the best companions for eggplants is beans. Specifically, bush beans and green beans are great choices. These beans are nitrogen fixers, which means they add nitrogen to the soil. This is crucial for eggplants, as nitrogen is a vital nutrient for their growth.
- Bush Beans: These are compact and grow well alongside eggplants without taking up too much space. They enrich the soil and provide the nutrients needed for your eggplants to thrive.
- Green Beans: These can be either bush or pole varieties. Pole beans might require some trellising, but they also improve soil fertility and can coexist well with eggplants.
Additionally, beans have pest-repelling properties. They can help keep pests like Mexican bean beetles at bay. This dual benefit of soil enrichment and pest control makes beans an excellent choice for companion planting with eggplants.
- Growing Tip : Ensure that your beans and eggplants have enough space to grow without competing for resources. Aim for at least 12-18 inches between each plant to allow for adequate air circulation and nutrient access.
If you’re using pole beans, use trellises or stakes to keep them upright. Position them so they don’t cast shade on your eggplants, ensuring both plants get plenty of sunlight.
2- Peas
- Botanical Name: Pisum sativum
- Planting Time: Plant peas in early spring, 2-3 weeks before planting eggplants.
Peas, such as bush peas or green peas, are nitrogen-fixing plants that add nitrogen to the soil. This nutrient enrichment benefits eggplants, which require adequate nitrogen for healthy growth and fruit production.
- Growing Tip: Plant peas near eggplants to improve soil quality and provide structural support if they are climbing varieties.
RELATED: Peas Companion Plants
Pest Repellent Plants
1- MarigoldÂ
- Botanical Name: Tagetes spp.
- Planting Time: Plant marigolds at the same time as eggplants, in late spring after the last frost.
Marigolds are a gardener’s best friend when it comes to natural pest control. Their strong scent and unique compounds act as a deterrent for many common garden pests.
- Pest Repellent Properties: Marigolds are known to repel pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes. Their roots release a substance called alpha-terthienyl, which is toxic to nematodes, protecting your eggplants from these root-damaging pests.
- Beneficial Insect Attraction: Marigolds also attract beneficial insects like lacewings and ladybugs. These insects are natural predators of aphids and other small pests, helping to keep your garden pest-free.
- Growing Tip: Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your eggplant garden to provide pest control without competing for nutrients. Monitor your garden regularly to ensure that marigolds are attracting beneficial insects rather than drawing in pests.
2- Thyme
- Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris
- Planting Time: Plant thyme in late spring after the last frost, at the same time as eggplants.
Thyme adds variety and additional pest control to your garden. It’s known for its ability to repel a range of pests, including cabbage worms and whiteflies, which can otherwise harm your eggplants.
- Pest Repellent Properties: The aromatic oils in thyme act as a natural deterrent to many common garden pests, protecting your eggplants from potential damage.
- Growing Tip: Thyme is a low-growing herb that can be planted around the base of your eggplants. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it an easy addition to your garden.
RELATED: Thyme Companion Plants
3- Mint
- Botanical Name: Mentha spp.
- Planting Time: Plant mint in late spring after the last frost, in containers to prevent spreading. Plant at the same time as eggplants.
Mint is a powerful pest repellent, known for its ability to keep flea beetles and aphids at bay. These pests can cause significant damage to eggplants by chewing on the leaves and spreading diseases.
- Pest Repellent Properties: The strong scent of mint confuses pests and deters them from laying eggs on your eggplants.
- Growing Tip: Mint can be invasive, so it’s best to plant it in containers or confined areas to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably. Place these containers around your eggplants to maximize pest protection without worrying about mint taking over your garden.
4- Oregano
- Botanical Name: Origanum vulgare
- Planting Time: Plant oregano in late spring after the last frost, at the same time as eggplants.
Oregano is a versatile herb that not only adds flavor to your dishes but also acts as a natural pest repellent. It deters pests like aphids and spider mites, protecting your eggplants from damage.
- Pest Repellent Properties: Oregano releases aromatic oils that pests find unappealing, keeping them away from your garden.
- Growing Tip: Plant oregano near your eggplants or in between rows to maximize its pest-repellent effects.
RELATED: Oregano Companion Plants
5- Garlic
- Botanical Name: Allium sativum
- Planting Time: Plant garlic in fall, 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes, for harvesting in late spring or early summer.
Garlic is known for its strong scent, which repels pests such as aphids, spider mites, and even larger pests like rabbits and deer. It can help protect your eggplants from a variety of garden invaders.
- Pest Repellent Properties: The sulfur compounds in garlic bulbs and leaves act as a natural insecticide, keeping pests at bay.
- Growing Tip: Plant garlic bulbs around the perimeter of your eggplant beds or intersperse them throughout your garden for comprehensive pest control.
6- Onions
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- Botanical Name: Allium cepa
- Planting Time: Plant onion sets in early spring, 2-3 weeks before planting eggplants.
Onions, like garlic, have strong odors that repel pests. They deter pests like aphids, thrips, and nematodes, making them beneficial companions for eggplants.
- Pest Repellent Properties: Onions release sulfur compounds that mask the scent of eggplants, making it difficult for pests to locate them.
- Growing Tip: Plant onions alongside your eggplants in rows or clusters to create a barrier against pests while maximizing space usage.
7- Chives
- Botanical Name: Allium schoenoprasum
- Planting Time: Plant chives in early spring, 2-3 weeks before planting eggplants.
Chives are members of the onion family and share similar pest-repellent properties. They deter aphids and other pests while adding a mild onion flavor to your culinary dishes.
- Pest Repellent Properties: Chives release sulfur compounds that deter pests, making them a useful companion for eggplants.
- Growing Tip: Plant chives in clumps near your eggplants or in containers around your garden to provide continuous pest protection.
RELATED: Chives Companion Plants
Beneficial Insect Attractors:
1- Nasturtiums
- Botanical Name: Tropaeolum majus
- Planting Time: Plant nasturtiums in late spring after the last frost, at the same time as eggplants.
Nasturtiums are vibrant, attractive flowers that can play a crucial role in your garden’s ecosystem.
- Attracting Pollinators: Nasturtiums are excellent at attracting bees and other pollinators. These insects are essential for the pollination of eggplant flowers, leading to better fruit development and higher yields.
- Trap Crop Function: Nasturtiums also serve as a trap crop, meaning they attract pests like aphids away from your eggplants. This keeps the aphids concentrated on the nasturtiums, protecting your eggplants from damage.
- Growing Tip: Regularly trim and manage nasturtiums to prevent them from spreading too much. Monitor aphid populations to ensure they don’t transfer from nasturtiums to your eggplants.
RELATED: Nasturtiums Companion Plants
2- Basil
- Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
- Planting Time: Plant basil at the same time as eggplants, in late spring after the last frost, when the soil is warm.
Basil is another excellent companion plant for eggplants. It attracts beneficial pollinators like bees, which are crucial for the pollination of eggplant flowers and the subsequent development of fruit.
- Beneficial Insect Attraction: The aromatic leaves of basil draw in bees and other pollinators, enhancing the overall pollination process in your garden.
- Growing Tip: Plant basil around your eggplants in clusters or rows. This not only boosts pollination but also creates a fragrant, lush garden space.
3- Chamomile
- Botanical Name: Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile
- Planting Time: Plant chamomile in late spring after the last frost, at the same time as eggplants.
Chamomile is not only a calming herb for humans but also attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies, which prey on aphids and other small pests that can harm your eggplants.
- Beneficial Insect Attraction: The tiny flowers of chamomile attract hoverflies, which feed on pests that can damage your eggplants.
- Growing Tip: Plant chamomile near your eggplants to encourage hoverflies and other beneficial insects to visit your garden.
4- Borage
- Botanical Name: Borago officinalis
- Planting Time: Plant borage in late spring after the last frost, at the same time as eggplants.
Borage is an excellent companion plant for eggplants due to its ability to repel pests such as tomato hornworms and cabbage worms. Its fuzzy leaves and star-shaped blue flowers contain compounds that deter pests, making it a valuable addition to any garden.
- Pest Repellent Properties: Borage deters pests with its strong aroma and texture, helping to protect eggplants and other nearby plants from damage.
- Beneficial Insect Attraction: Borage flowers attract pollinators like bees, enhancing the pollination of eggplant flowers and promoting better fruit development.
RELATED: Borage Companion Plants
Shade Tolerant Plants
These Plants love cooler, shadier spots, making them perfect for planting beneath taller eggplants. The shade provided by the eggplants helps keep these greens cool, preventing them from bolting (going to seed) too quickly in hot weather.
1- Lettuce
- Botanical Name: Lactuca sativa
- Planting Time: Plant lettuce in early spring, 2-3 weeks before planting eggplants.
Lettuce varieties such as leaf lettuce, butterhead, and romaine can be planted around eggplants. They enjoy the dappled sunlight and cooler temperatures, which help them grow tender and flavorful leaves.
2- Spinach
- Botanical Name: Spinacia oleracea
- Planting Time: Plant spinach in early spring, 2-3 weeks before planting eggplants.
Spinach is another shade-tolerant green that grows well under eggplants. The eggplants provide just enough shade to keep the spinach from overheating, leading to a steady supply of fresh, nutritious leaves.
3- Radishes
- Botanical Name: Raphanus sativus var. radicula
- Planting Time: Plant radishes in early spring, 2-3 weeks before planting eggplants.
While not technically a leafy green, radishes are root vegetables that also benefit from the shade cast by eggplants. They grow quickly and can be harvested before they compete with the eggplants for resources.
RELATED: Radishes Companion Plants
Non-Competing Nutrients
These plants do not compete for the same nutrients as eggplants. Eggplants are heavy feeders that require plenty of nutrients from the soil, especially nitrogen. In contrast, leafy greens and radishes have relatively low nutrient requirements and can coexist without depleting the soil.
What Not to Plant with Eggplant
While companion planting can enhance garden health and productivity, choosing the wrong companions for eggplants can have adverse effects. Avoid planting fennel, as it releases growth-inhibiting chemicals into the soil. Keep corn away, as it shares pests with eggplants, like corn earworms and beetles. Potatoes and tomatoes, both nightshades, share diseases with eggplants and can lead to increased competition for nutrients and disease spread. Avoid planting eggplants near black walnut trees due to the toxic juglone chemical they produce. Brassicas, including cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower, can attract pests and compete for nutrients, reducing eggplant yields. Dill, though beneficial for some plants, can inhibit the growth of nightshades if planted too close. To ensure strong, healthy eggplants, avoid these bad companions, plan your garden layout carefully, and practice crop rotation.
Planting and Care Tips for Eggplant Companion Plants
Choosing Your Plant Posse
Selecting the right companion plants for eggplant involves considering several factors: growth habits, light requirements, and pest-repelling properties. By thoughtfully choosing companions, you can create a harmonious garden that supports healthy plant growth and reduces the need for chemical interventions.
- Growth Habits: Look for plants with complementary growth habits. For example, tall plants can provide shade for those that prefer partial sun, while ground covers can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Light Requirements: Ensure that all plants in your garden bed have similar light needs. Eggplants thrive in full sun, so pair them with other sun-loving plants.
- Pest-Repelling Properties: Some plants can deter pests that commonly attack eggplants. For instance, marigolds repel nematodes, while basil can help ward off aphids and tomato hornworms.
Garden Bed Blueprint
Proper spacing is crucial for optimal plant growth. Crowded plants compete for nutrients, water, and light, leading to stunted growth and increased susceptibility to disease.
- Spacing: Space eggplants 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 24-36 inches apart. Adjust the spacing for companion plants based on their mature size.
- Light Needs: Ensure taller plants do not overshadow shorter ones. Plant sun-loving companions like peppers and tomatoes alongside eggplants, while placing shorter herbs like basil and thyme around the edges.
Sketch a garden layout before planting. This visual plan helps you organize plant placement, ensuring adequate space and light for each plant. Include notes on plant heights and expected growth patterns to avoid future overcrowding.
Maintaining Your Garden Paradise
Consistent care is essential for a thriving garden. By focusing on watering, weeding, and organic pest control, you can maintain a healthy environment for your eggplants and their companions.
- Watering: Provide regular, deep watering to encourage strong root systems. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce the frequency of watering.
- Weeding: Keep your garden free of weeds to prevent competition for resources. Use mulch to suppress weed growth and make weeding easier.
- Organic Pest Control: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests naturally. Companion plants can also play a significant role in pest management by attracting beneficial insects and repelling harmful ones.
Companion plants create a balanced ecosystem, reducing the need for harsh chemicals. For example, planting flowers like nasturtiums can attract predatory insects that feed on common eggplant pests.
By following these actionable steps, you can successfully implement companion planting in your garden. Thoughtful plant selection, proper spacing, and diligent maintenance will ensure a bountiful harvest and a beautiful, thriving garden
FAQ: Eggplant Companion Plants
Q: What should I plant with eggplant?
A: Ideal companions for eggplant include marigolds, basil, thyme, beans, and peppers. These plants can enhance growth and repel pests.
Q: What should I not plant with eggplant?
A: Avoid planting fennel, corn, potatoes, tomatoes, black walnut trees, brassicas (such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower), and dill near eggplants due to competition, pest attraction, and growth inhibition.
Q: What are good companion plants for eggplant in containers?
A: In containers, eggplants pair well with basil, marigolds, and thyme, which can all help deter pests and do not compete for resources.
Q: What grows well with eggplant?
A: Eggplants grow well with herbs like basil and thyme, as well as with peppers, beans, and marigolds.
Q: Can I plant tomatoes and eggplants together?
A: It’s generally best to avoid planting tomatoes and eggplants together due to their susceptibility to the same pests and diseases. If you must plant them together, ensure proper spacing and implement crop rotation.
Q: Can you plant eggplant and peppers together?
A: Yes, eggplants and peppers can be planted together as they share similar growing conditions and can benefit from each other’s pest-repelling properties.
Q: Are zucchini and eggplant companion plants?
A: It’s best to avoid planting zucchini and eggplants together because both plants require a lot of space and nutrients, leading to competition.
Q: What should I plant next to eggplant?
A: Planting basil, thyme, marigolds, beans, and peppers next to eggplant can enhance growth and deter pests.
Q: Are onions and eggplant companion plants?
A: Onions can be good companions for eggplants as they help repel pests and do not compete for resources.
Q: Are squash and eggplant companion plants?
A: It is better to avoid planting squash and eggplant together due to their high nutrient needs and potential for competition.
Q: What companion plants go well with eggplant?
A: Good companion plants for eggplant include marigolds, basil, thyme, beans, peppers, and onions.
Q: Are peppers and eggplant companion plants?
A: Yes, peppers and eggplant are good companion plants as they have similar growing requirements and can help protect each other from pests.
Q: Are kale and eggplant companion plants?
A: Kale can be grown near eggplant, but keep an eye on potential pest issues and ensure both plants have enough space and nutrients.
Q: Are Ichiban eggplants different when choosing companion plants?
A: No, Ichiban eggplants have the same companion planting needs as other eggplant varieties. Good companions include marigolds, basil, thyme, beans, peppers, and onions.
Q: Are Japanese eggplants different when choosing companion plants?
A: No, Japanese eggplants have the same companion planting requirements as other eggplant types. Suitable companions are marigolds, basil, thyme, beans, peppers, and onions.
Conclusion
Companion planting with eggplants offers numerous benefits, including enhanced yield, effective pest control, and improved overall garden health. By carefully selecting and positioning companion plants like marigolds, basil, thyme, beans, and peppers, you create a balanced ecosystem that supports robust growth and reduces the need for chemical interventions.
Experiment with companion planting in your garden and experience the transformation in your eggplant harvest. Witness the increased productivity, natural pest management, and healthier plants that result from this thoughtful gardening approach.
Companion planting can also enhance the flavor and quality of your homegrown eggplants, making your garden bounty even more enjoyable.
By implementing these strategies, you can create a thriving, healthy garden full of vibrant eggplants and their beneficial companions. Start exploring the world of eggplant companion plants today for a more productive and sustainable gardening experience.