In the interest of keeping companion planting simple, I have tried to make lists of plants that go well with each other. That way, as I am planting my garden, I can quickly glance at the list and pick and choose what I what to plant next to each other. For me, it’s just simpler than pouring over a chart. {Though, if charts are your thing, I did make one of those a few years back}.
Whatever your preference, chart or list, I aim to please. So, if you are planting cucumbers this year in your garden, here’s a list of plants that will play nice {some will even help the cucumber along}:
- Beans. Beans, beans, the magical fruit…the more you plant the better your soil. You thought I was going somewhere else with that, didn’t you?
- Radishes. Radishes help deter cucumber beetles and other pest.
- Peas. Peas, like beans, provide nitrogen to the soil. They also have similar sun and water needs.
- Beets. Think of beets as Switzerland to your cucumbers. They don’t really provide much by way of defense, but they don’t cause any trouble.
- Carrots. Carrots are pretty much the same as beets. They don’t go around looking for trouble and will play nicely with your cucumbers.
- Corn. Corn provides a little shade for cuc’s in the dead of summer. Plus, they have similar watering needs.
- Dill. Dill attracts beneficial bugs to your cucumbers.
- Marigolds. Marigolds are the golden child {ha! no pun intended} of companion planting. Plant them liberally.
- Nasturtium. Nasturtium are rumored to help cucumbers grow–and improve their flavor.
I am sure there are plenty more options, but these 9 are my favorite to plant with cucumbers. What do YOU plant with your cucumbers?
~Mavis
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Maryw says
At least you didn’t start out with, There once was a man from Nantucket
Karmen Paterson says
I planted okra with my cucumbers this year. I spent hours researching companion plants for my gardens and it was probably the most frustrating and confusing thing ever. I finally made a plan that I hope works out so I never have to think about it again, I can just rinse, wash, repeat.
Trae says
Run with a no till lasagna style garden and you’ll never have a problem!
Patriciah Mutuku says
This seems a very good idea. I need to try it out!
Donna in VA says
I happened to plant cucumber near the okra too. The cucumber vine is happily winding its way among the okra plants that are now at least waist-high. I will definitely put them together again next year.
Glenys Pettit says
Can i grow curbuts under my fig trees, using them to climb on.
Im in Mandurah on the coast in southern West Australia.
Therese says
I once planted cucumbers and green beans next to each other and the green beans choked out my cucumber plant. I don’t think I will make that mistake again.
Rosemary Hugharts says
I have to disagree about growing with beans.This year I planted them next to each other and the cucumbers sulked.