The Best Companion Plants For Zucchini (And Why You Should Plant Them)

Have you ever planted zucchini or any other plants in your garden only to find it ;or any other plants and found that they didn’t do so well? Maybe because of pests, or root rot or too much or little sun, etc?

If so, then companion planting can be a great way to practice what gardeners have done for centuries. Today, we’ll look at what companion plants work best with zucchini, as well as the reasons why they should be planted together. Planting the right plants together will benefit them all as they can repel pests, shade plants and take different nutrients from the soil so they aren’t competing.

So if you’re interested in learning more about companion planting and how it can help make your garden thrive, read on!

Why You Should Grow Companion Plants With Zucchini

If you’re growing zucchini (or any kind of squash), you should definitely consider planting some companion plants alongside them. Companion plants can help deter pests, attract beneficial insects, and improve the overall health of your zucchini plants.

Here are some of the best companion plants for zucchini, and why you should plant them:

Marigolds

Marigolds release a chemical that repels many common squash pests, including cucumber beetles and squash bugs. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are essential for healthy zucchini fruits.

Nasturtiums

Like marigolds, nasturtiums also repel cucumber beetles and squash bugs. They also trap aphids, another common pest that can damage zucchini plants.

Basil

Basil is a great companion plant for zucchini because it attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies while also repelling pests like mosquitoes.

Rosemary

Rosemary is another good option for deterring mosquitoes. It also has a strong scent that can help mask the scent of zucchini flowers, which can sometimes attract pests.

Thyme

Thyme is another good herb to plant with zucchini. It helps repel cabbage loopers, cutworms, and other caterpillars that might try to munch on your plants.

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How To Plant a Companion Plant With Zucchini

If you’re looking to maximize the yield of your zucchini plants, planting a companion plant is a great way to do it.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose a companion plant or more than one that will complement the zucchini plant’s growth habit and needs. Some good choices include:

• bush beans
• corn
• cucumbers
• marigolds
• nasturtiums
• summer savory

2. Plant the companion plant in the same bed as the zucchini plant, or in a nearby bed if space is limited.

3. Make sure to keep the plants well-watered, especially during hot weather. Zucchinis are particularly susceptible to drought stress.

4. Harvest the zucchinis and companion plants when they’re ripe and enjoy!

Alternatives To Planting a Companion Plant With Zucchini

There are a few reasons you might not want to plant a companion plant with your zucchini. Maybe you don’t have the space, or maybe you’re worried about the potential for pests and diseases. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of alternative ways to protect your zucchini plants from pests and diseases.

One alternative is to use row covers. Row covers can be placed over individual plants or over an entire row of plants. They create a barrier that prevents pests from getting to the plants, but they also allow sunlight and water to reach the plants. Using row covers means you’d have to hand pollinate your plants because they also keep pollinators out.

Another alternative is to use mulch. Mulch can be placed around the base of the plant or around the entire planting area. It helps to prevent weeds from growing and it also helps to hold moisture in the soil.

Whatever method you choose, make sure you monitor your zucchini plants closely for signs of pests or disease. By taking some preventive measures, you can keep your zucchini plants healthy and productive all season long!

When choosing companion plants for zucchini, it’s important to consider the needs of your particular plant. Make sure to choose plants that will thrive in the same conditions as your zucchini plant (e.g., full sun or partial shade).

Also, keep in mind that some plants may need more water than others. Be sure to water all of your plants accordingly so that they have a chance to thrive.