Zucchini Companion Plants – Here’s What You Need To Know

You must be wondering why certain plants in your garden are not growing properly or evenly. There must be something hampering their growth. But you are doing everything right- providing them with ample light, water, nutrient, and good soil. So, what exactly is the problem? Well, the answer is quite simple, but not many people are aware of it. The plants which you are growing can fall under the category of those crops that require specific species next to them that can enhance their growth. Zucchini is the perfect example of a plant that requires the help of others to grow and strive. Are you searching for the plants which you can grow with them? Then, you are in the right spot as we have given below the complete guide for you about zucchini companion plants.

What Is Companion Planting?

Before you learn about zucchini companion plants, let’s first understand the meaning of companion planting. This is a time-tested gardening method that protects and enriches vulnerable plants. All over the world, many farmers and gardeners’ plant specific crops near each other to not only stimulate growth but also to deter pests, amplify flavor, keep weeds at bay, among other things.

However, these are not some of the only reasons you should consider companion planting. If you are someone with ample garden space, then you can opt for this method, as it will make your garden look beautiful and thoughtful. Preferably, when selecting companions, choose crops with different growth habits to prevent competition for sun and nutrients. A strategic companion planting is essential if you want this method to serves its purpose well.

Zucchini Companions For A Bountiful Yield

Zucchini is a known summer squash that is dark or light green in color. It may give the impression of cucumber at first, but zucchini is usually served cooked. This plant is sweet, soft, and brown easily when cooked. You can many often found this plant in soups and pizzas. It can also be used as a side dish only if you prepare it using olive oil and spices. At times, zucchini is also used to make pickles. Additionally, it is also used in folk medicines to treat aches, colds, and various other health conditions.

It is the part of three sister vegetables- beans, corn, and squash, meaning they all grow together. These plants are heavy feeders and require a great number of nutrients than most others. So, while searching for their companion crops, keep in mind these qualities of the sister vegetables. The plants selected should have different growing habits so that there is no competition for sunlight and other nutrients.

1. Beans And Corns

These two crops are the ultimate companion for zucchini. Always planted together in gardens of Native America, these plants are often considered a gift from gods. The beans or any legume, even peas, pull out nitrogen from the air and fix them in the soil. Zucchini loves nitrogen and grows beautifully with their help. Corn, on the other side, offers support to vining plants like beans with its tall, sturdy stalk. The ample growth of these three plants together shade the soil and prevent the invasion of weeds.

2. Radishes

Referred to as the workhorse of the garden, radishes are an edible root vegetable grown and consumed throughout the world. They are mostly eaten raw as a crunchy salad vegetable and comes with a tangy flavor. They are considered ideal amid zucchini plants as they repel common pests such as squash bugs, aphids, beetles, and others. Not only are they good to eat, but they help your zucchini to bloom effectively if you plant them in your garden. You will be able to enjoy two healthy snacks at your home.

3. Spinach

A popular green vegetable, spinach is considered a superfood that is loaded with tons of nutrients and is important for skin, hair, and bone. It provides iron, minerals, vitamins, and protein. Both spinach and zucchini are mutually beneficial to each other. Zucchini offers shade and protection to spinach from the heat of summer. On the other hand, it reaps benefits from the nutrients that spinach releases into the soil. Both of these plants help each other to grow in a healthy manner.

4. Garlic and Parsley

A few garlic plants among zucchini will keep the aphids away, which are known to wreak havoc on zucchini. Garlic is often used to add flavor in dishes and also in medicines since ancient times. It is considered part of the onion family and comes with many health benefits. Therefore, planting them in your garden is not a bad choice. Parsley is a fragrant herb that also deters pests and thus ensures the growth of zucchini. It also enhances the flavor of your meals and has multiple health benefits.

5. Nasturtiums and Marigolds

Both of these easy to grow annuals provide color and beauty to your garden. They will be a vibrant and colorful addition as well as provide beneficial pollinators to the garden. Nasturtiums attract pests and flea beetles, and therefore they need to be planted around the circumference of your zucchini plants. While marigolds release an aroma that pests don’t prefer and are useful to discourage nematodes. So, both of these plants make excellent zucchini companions.

6. Borage

Also known as starflower, borage is an annual herb with edible flowers and leaves. It is used commonly used for cough, fever, and depression. Moreover, it offers dual benefits as zucchini companion plants- first, it attracts pollinators such as honeybees for flowers and deters various insects. Hence, planting them in your kitchen garden is a good choice.

Plants To Be Avoided As Zucchini Companions

There are specific plants that you need to avoid while planting zucchini in your garden. It is because these plants will not only hinder the growth of your zucchini but the overall health of your garden.

1. Potato

Potato is considered heavy feeders same as zucchini, meaning it also requires ample nutrients and sun. Therefore, avoid growing them in your garden as not only zucchini but potato will also not be able to grow in a healthy manner.

2. Pumpkin

Pumpkin and zucchini both belong to the same family and hence cross-pollinate with each other, which can result in poor fruit production. So, keep in mind to avoid them while selecting zucchini companions.

3. Fennel

A Mediterranean plant popular all over the world, it adds flavor to your delicacies. It has long green stalks and a pale, whitish bulb. This plant attracts beneficial insects, and are not considered suitable for most vegetable. In this manner, it impedes the growth of all other plants.

Conclusion

Hopefully, by now, you must have got an idea about the plants that are ideal to be zucchini companions and those which are not. Companion planting comes with endless benefits but only if done right. You need to select the plants which will complement each other growth in an effective manner. Plus, keep in mind that the secret behind any successful garden is occasional feeding, nutrient-rich soil, regular watering, and essential light. Healthy soil ensures healthy roots for your zucchini and its companion plants.

Have you tried zucchini relish?