Interplanting and Companion Planting

Plant fast-maturing crops like radishes or lettuce between slower-growing ones such as tomatoes or cabbage, harvesting the quick crop before the larger plant needs the space. Pair plants that benefit each other -- for example, basil planted near tomatoes can help repel aphids, while tall corn provides natural shade for heat-sensitive lettuce.

Why It Works

Interplanting fills gaps in both space and time. Instead of leaving soil bare while slow crops mature, you harvest an extra crop from the same ground. Companion pairings can reduce pest pressure and improve pollination without requiring additional square footage.

Tips

• Plan sowing dates so fast crops finish before slow crops need full canopy space
• Avoid pairing plants that compete heavily for the same nutrients (e.g., two heavy nitrogen feeders)
• Use a simple garden journal to track which combinations work in your conditions
• Start with proven pairings: carrots with onions, beans with corn, or herbs among brassicas