Companion Planting: Cabbage

Cabbage benefits from companion planting to improve growth and deter pests. Here's how to optimize your cabbage garden.

Plants Cabbage Helps

Beets: Cabbage helps create a beneficial microclimate for beets.
Celery: Cabbage can provide some shade for celery in hot weather.
Onions: Cabbage's large leaves can protect onions from excessive sun.

Plants That Help Cabbage

Dill: Attracts beneficial insects that prey on cabbage pests.
Thyme: Repels cabbage worms and other pests.

Plants to Avoid

Strawberries: Can stunt cabbage growth and vice versa.
Tomatoes: Compete for nutrients and can attract pests harmful to cabbage.

Growing Tips

Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with pH 6.5-6.8.
Sunlight: Full sun, at least 6 hours daily.
Water: Consistent moisture, about 1-1.5 inches per week.
Spacing: 12-24 inches apart, depending on variety.
Fertilizer: Side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer when plants start to form heads.
Temperature: Cool-season crop, plant in spring or fall.
Pest control: Use row covers to protect from cabbage worms and other pests.

Garden Layouts

Small Garden

Cabbage centered, with thyme and onions on sides.

Medium Garden

Two cabbage plants with beets and celery as companions.

Large Garden

Grid layout with cabbage interspersed among companions for diverse benefits.

Long Garden

Cabbage rows with diverse companions for pest control and improved growth.

Conclusion

Companion planting with cabbage can enhance your garden's overall health and productivity. Implement these strategies for a thriving cabbage harvest and healthier companion plants.

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