14 Best Asparagus Companion Plants (Plus 3 to Avoid)

Looking to increase your asparagus harvest dramatically this season, but don’t know what to plant with asparagus?

Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that thrives next to the right companion plants. I’m going to share with you 14 of the best asparagus companion plants that will help create more growth in your garden.

You’ll learn which companion plants to grow with asparagus, which three you should keep away from your asparagus (at all costs), and common questions that help asparagus growth!

Key Takeaways

• Companion planting with the right plants can significantly increase your asparagus harvest and promote thriving growth.
• Asparagus loves strawberries, rhubarb, horseradish, tomatoes, eggplant, lettuce, spinach, basil, cilantro, and dill. These plants make great companion plants.
• These companion plants provide benefits such as pest control, weed suppression, improved flavor and nutrient availability for asparagus.
• Planting basil alongside your asparagus attracts beneficial insects while repelling harmful pests like aphids and Colorado potato beetles.

Understanding Companion Planting

Companion planting is when you pair compatible plants together in your garden to gain so that each plant helps each other. This helps improve plant growth, enhance fruit flavor, and protect against pests.

This technique relies on the understanding that certain plants can enrich the soil with necessary nutrients, attract or deter insects, and even boost the health of neighboring plants.

Asparagus companion planting exemplifies this method’s effectiveness beautifully. Given its perennial nature – coming back year after year – it makes sense to let those asparagus beds play host to a variety of edible companions throughout their growing season.

This strategic placement will not only maximize your harvest but also protect your asparagus from pesky pests like Asparagus beetles or nematodes by luring them away with trap crops like nasturtiums or repelling them with nightshade family members like tomatoes and petunias.

Carefully selecting companions for your asparagus could create a symbiotic relationship directly contributing towards a thriving vegetable garden and ensuring a productive harvest each season.

Characteristics of Asparagus

Plant Family Asparagaceae (Asparagus family)	Watering Conditions Well-draining soil, keep consistently moist	Mature Size Typically 3-5 feet tall
Soil Requirements Well-draining, sandy loam soil; pH 6.0-7.0	Sunlight Needs Full sun to partial shade	Temperature Tolerance Hardy in USDA zones 3-9
Growth Habit Herbaceous perennial	Flowering Period Late spring to early summer	Flower Color Small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers
Foliage Characteristics Feathery, bright green, needle-like leaves	Propagation Methods Crowns (root divisions), seeds (less common)	Pruning and Maintenance Allow ferny foliage to yellow and die back in winter; cut back old foliage in early spring
Common Pests and Diseases Asparagus beetles, slugs; fusarium crown and root rot, rust	Companion Planting Tomatoes, parsley, basil, marigolds, and other plants that deter pests	Edible Parts Tender young shoots (spears) harvested in spring
Wildlife Attraction Asparagus flowers provide food for bees and other pollinators	Toxicity Berries are toxic; avoid consuming them	Special Care Instructions Prepare soil with organic matter before planting; avoid harvesting spears from young plants

14 Best Asparagus Companion Plants

Choosing the right asparagus companion plants can be challenging. Many plants make the list, however, strawberry, rhubarb, and horseradish are among the best asparagus companion plants to grow since they provide great ground cover and weed control.

Here are some of the best plants you can grow that asparagus loves.

1. Strawberry

Strawberries form a thriving union with asparagus in the garden, making them an ideal choice for your asparagus companion plants list.

As perennial crops, both asparagus and strawberries share similarities such as their early harvesting timeframes which enhance their relationship while minimizing competition for nutrients.

Planting strawberries alongside your spears of asparagus leverages these berries’ shorter root depth, enabling effective use of soil space.

Since asparagus may take a long time to grow, strawberries add value by serving as ground cover between rows of towering asparagus stems, thereby suppressing weeds that would otherwise claim valuable growing space.

Furthermore, this plant pairing is beneficial to each plant’s growth: strawberries offer shade protection to the delicate emerging shoots of the asparagus whilst absorbing excess moisture from soil thanks to their shallower root zones.

Another compelling reason to co-plant these perennials lies in their mutual attraction of beneficial insects.

This strategic grouping can assist in pest prevention by drawing pollinators and predatory wasps into your garden terrain which will naturally keep the asparagus beetles at bay.

In terms of harvest productivity, you’ll find that they not only complement each other visually but also promote enhanced flavor quality because of shared organic nitrogen resources through composting or natural sources.

So whether you have dedicated raised beds or prefer container gardening set-ups, introducing strawberry plants around your thriving patch of an established perennial like Asparagus offers multifaceted advantages- optimizing crop output while maintaining healthy sustenance levels within your veggie patch ecosystem.

2. Rhubarb

Rhubarbs are great companions for asparagus because they offer multiple benefits when strategically placed in your garden layout.

Establishing rhubarb at the north end of your asparagus allows it to flourish without hindrance from the shade created by asparagus ferns.

Your rhubarb will also happily cohabitate with strawberries, creating a remarkable spring combination that aids pest prevention and soil moisture management.

This biennial herb is low-maintenance and can endure full sun locations and well-draining soils just like its other perennial crops companions, the horseradish and eggplant, which are beneficial due to their capabilities of deterring common pests such as Colorado potato beetles and the Asparagus beetle.

Therefore, integrating rhubarb within your edible gardening practices not only maximizes your harvest but also enhances soil conditions leading to healthier plant life overall.

3. Horseradish

Horseradish is undoubtedly one of the best companion plants for asparagus. It not only enhances the health and growth of asparagus but also repels pests to maximize its productivity.

Planting horseradish near your asparagus beds can create a diverse and productive perennial food garden.

One of the key benefits of pairing horseradish plants with asparagus is that it attracts beneficial insects while deterring pests like asparagus beetles, ensuring a healthier crop.

Moreover, horseradish doesn’t mind shade from the towering ferns of asparagus, making it an ideal companion plant in terms of space utilization.

4. Tomatoes

Tomato plants are excellent companions for asparagus due to their ability to repel asparagus beetles and nematodes. These pests can harm the growth and productivity of asparagus, but by planting tomatoes nearby, you can keep them at bay.

In addition to pest control, tomatoes add a burst of color and flavor to your garden. They thrive in full-sun locations with well-draining soil, making them a perfect match for asparagus.

With early-season tomato varieties, you’ll be able to enjoy a bountiful harvest alongside your freshly picked asparagus spears.

One thing to be careful with tomatoes is they can sometimes get a disease called Fusarium wilt. This can also affect asparagus, and planting them together increases the risk of disease transmission. 

5. Eggplant

Eggplants are fantastic companion plants for your asparagus beds. Not only do they add visual interest with their stunning purple fruits, but they also offer some incredible benefits to your asparagus plants.

Like tomatoes and pepper plants, eggplants belong to the nightshade family, which means they work well with asparagus. They can help repel pests like asparagus beetles and nematodes, ensuring your harvest is pest-free.

Plus, since eggplants have a different root system than asparagus, they don’t compete for space or nutrients in the soil.

So go ahead and plant some eggplants near your asparagus – it’s a winning combination that will enhance both the beauty and productivity of your garden!

6. Lettuce

Lettuce is one of the best companion plants for asparagus because it can be grown as a ground cover between rows of asparagus to minimize weeds and take advantage of the shade provided by asparagus fronds.

Lettuce has shallow roots that won’t compete with asparagus for nutrients, making it an ideal choice. Plus, you can harvest lettuce throughout the growing season, so it adds value and diversity to your perennial food garden.

The combination of lettuce and asparagus not only enhances the health and yield of your crops but also creates a visually pleasing landscape that will make any gardener proud.

7. Spinach

Spinach is one of the best companion plants for asparagus, offering numerous benefits to help maximize your asparagus harvest. First off, planting spinach with asparagus can be a great strategy for weed control between rows.

Spinach has shallow roots and won’t compete with the deeper-rooted asparagus for nutrients, making them excellent companions in terms of space utilization.

Another advantage is that spinach and asparagus have different maturing times and growth habits, meaning they won’t interfere with each other’s development.

Both plants also prefer full sun locations and well-draining soil, so they’ll thrive together in similar conditions.

Plus, by growing spinach as a ground cover between rows of asparagus, you can create a diverse and productive garden while benefiting from the added shade provided by taller asparagus plants.

8. Basil

Basil is not only a popular herb for the kitchen, it’s also one of the best companion plants for asparagus. When grown alongside asparagus, basil helps to repel harmful insects and attract beneficial ones, creating a natural pest control system in your garden.

This aromatic herb releases volatile compounds that deter pests like aphids, Colorado potato beetles, and spider mites while attracting predatory wasps that feed on these pests.

Additionally, basil enriches the soil with organic nitrogen, promoting healthier growth and higher yields for your asparagus crop.

The attractive foliage and vibrant flowers of basil also add visual appeal to your garden beds or containers where you grow asparagus. Maybe plant some Italian mammoth basil plants (Ocimum basilicum) near your asparagus beds this season.

It’s an easy way to boost productivity while adding delicious flavor to summer meals.

9. Cilantro

Cilantro is a fantastic companion plant for asparagus, thanks to its shallow root system and low-growing habit that won’t compete with the asparagus for space.

Not only does cilantro deter aphids, Colorado potato beetles, and spider mites, but it also attracts beneficial insects and pollinators that can improve the overall health of your asparagus plants.

One of the great things about pairing cilantro with asparagus is that they have similar growing requirements and can coexist without any issues.

Plus, cilantro provides shade for the asparagus plants, helping to prevent them from bolting and ensuring a continuous harvest.

10. Dill

Dill is a versatile companion herb that can greatly benefit your asparagus plants. Not only does it deter pests like aphids, spider mites, and squash bugs, but it also attracts beneficial insects to your garden.

These helpful insects can control pest populations and improve the overall health of your asparagus beds. Additionally, dill plants provide shade to prevent bolting in hot weather conditions.

With its ability to thrive in cool temperatures, dill is the perfect companion for asparagus and can help maximize your harvest.

Planting dill near your asparagus not only adds flavor to your meals but also contributes to the ultimate thriving growth of this delicious vegetable.

11. Parsley

Parsley is a powerful herb that can be a valuable companion plant for your asparagus. Its strong scent not only adds flavor to your dishes but also attracts beneficial insects like predatory wasps, which help control pest populations in the garden.

The best part is that parsley can be harvested throughout the growing season, providing a continuous source of food for these helpful insects.

With its shallow root system and low growth habit, parsley won’t compete for space with your asparagus plants.

12. Marigold

Marigolds are one of the best companion plants for asparagus, thanks to their ability to deter pests and boost growth. These beautiful flowering ornamentals not only add a pop of color to your garden but also serve as natural pest repellents.

Marigolds release a strong fragrance that repels pests like aphids, spider mites, and cabbage worms, keeping them away from your precious asparagus spears.

Additionally, marigolds attract beneficial insects like predatory wasps and ladybugs that feed on harmful garden pests.

Their vibrant blooms also provide shade protection for young asparagus seedlings during the hot summer months.

By interplanting marigolds with asparagus in your garden beds or containers, you can create an effective defense against common pests while promoting healthy and productive harvests.

13. Nasturtium

Nasturtiums are a gardener’s best friend when it comes to maximizing your asparagus harvest. These vibrant flowers not only add beauty to your garden, but they also serve multiple purposes in supporting the growth of asparagus.

Nasturtiums act as a trap crop, luring pests away from your precious asparagus plants and redirecting their attention elsewhere.

Additionally, these versatile plants also work as an effective groundcover, suppressing weeds and minimizing competition for nutrients.

With their beneficial attributes, planting nasturtiums alongside your asparagus is a smart gardening practice that can lead to more fruit in your garden.

14. Petunia

Petunias are not only beautiful flowering ornamentals, but they also make excellent companion plants for asparagus.

As members of the nightshade family, petunias can help repel asparagus beetles and other pests that can damage your precious spears.

By planting petunias alongside your asparagus beds, you can create a visually appealing garden while reaping the benefits of their pest control properties.

These colorful flowers attract beneficial insects like predatory wasps and provide shade protection for your asparagus stems.

Petunias enhance the productivity of your asparagus harvest while adding a touch of beauty and flavor.

3 Worst Companion Plants for Asparagus

There are a few plants you need to be mindful of when planning your garden. Avoid growing these plants near asparagus because they compete for nutrients and space, negatively impacting the growth and productivity of your asparagus plants.

1. Alliums

Avoid planting alliums, such as onions, garlic, and shallots, next to your asparagus rows. These pungent allium plants have the potential to stunt the growth of asparagus due to their competition for nutrients and space.

Alliums have deep root systems that can disrupt or damage the delicate root structure of asparagus.

Moreover, their strong odor repels beneficial insects while attracting pests that can harm the health of asparagus plants.

To ensure a thriving harvest and maximize the productivity of your asparagus beds, it is best to keep alliums far away from these prized spear-producing vegetables.

2. Carrots

Carrots may be a popular vegetable to grow in the garden, but they should not be planted near asparagus. Why? Well, carrots have deep taproots that can compete with the shallow root system of asparagus.

As a result, both plants may suffer from stunted growth and reduced productivity.

To ensure your asparagus harvest thrives, it’s best to keep carrots at a distance and focus on companion plants that are more compatible with this delicious perennial crop.

3. Potatoes

Potatoes should be avoided as companion plants to asparagus. Although they are both commonly grown vegetables, planting potatoes near asparagus can cause issues for both crops.

Potatoes have a high demand for nutrients, especially nitrogen, and will compete with asparagus for these resources in the soil.

This can result in stunted growth and reduced productivity for the asparagus spears. Additionally, potatoes are susceptible to pests such as Colorado potato beetles and aphids, which can also target the asparagus plants if they are nearby.

Also, potatoes can sometimes have solanine, which is a naturally occurring plant toxin found in nightshade-type plants such as potatoes, peppers, tomatoes, and eggplants. You wouldn’t want this seeping into your asparagus or other garden plants. 

Final Thoughts

Incorporating the right companion plants into your asparagus beds can maximize your harvest and promote thriving garden growth. From basil to cilantro, dill to strawberries, these plant pairings offer a range of benefits from pest prevention to weed suppression.

By avoiding incompatible plants like alliums and carrots, you’ll create an environment that fosters healthy asparagus production.

So don’t just settle for a mediocre harvest – unlock the full potential of your asparagus crop with strategic companion planting!

Before you leave, check out our full guide: The Best Companion Plants For A Thriving Garden

FAQs About the Best Companion Plants for Asparagus

When is the best time to plant companion plants with my asparagus?

The best time to plant companion plants with your asparagus is during its growing season in early spring after all danger of frost has passed. This allows both the newly planted companions and established asparagus to establish themselves together for optimal growth throughout the season.

Why is companion planting beneficial for asparagus?

Companion planting is beneficial for asparagus because it can deter pests, enhance growth, and improve overall plant health. Certain plants have natural properties that can help keep asparagus healthy and protect it from pests.

Can I plant asparagus with strawberries?

Yes, planting asparagus with strawberries can be a great combination. It is believed that strawberries can deter asparagus beetles and help keep your asparagus plants healthy.

Do eggplants make good companions for asparagus?

Yes, eggplants can make good companions for asparagus. They are both shallow-rooted plants and can grow well together without competing for nutrients.

Can I plant asparagus near basil and dill?

Yes, you can plant asparagus near basil and dill. These herbs make good companions for asparagus, and their aromatic oils can help repel pests.

Are there any plants that deter asparagus beetles?

Yes, there are plants that can deter asparagus beetles. Some good companions for asparagus that can help deter beetles include strawberries, basil, dill, and parsley.

Can I plant asparagus near other asparagus plants?

I don’t recommend planting asparagus near other asparagus plants. Asparagus is one heavy feeder and planting them too close together can result in competition for nutrients and stunted growth.

Can I grow asparagus with spinach?

Yes, you can grow asparagus with spinach. Spinach is a shallow-rooted plant that makes a good companion for asparagus, as they can grow well together.