12 Best Brussels Sprouts Companion Plants And 4 To Avoid

Got a green thumb but struggling to get your Brussels sprouts to grow? I’ve been there and almost gave up.

But, after digging deep into the benefits of companion planting, I found it can significantly help improve your Brussels sprouts and garden as a whole.

In this article, I’ll share several of the best Brussels sprouts companion plants, how companion planting can take your garden to a whole other level, and a few plants you might want to avoid when planning your garden.

Key Takeaways

• Companion planting with Brussels sprouts can improve crop yield, pest control, soil health, and water conservation.
• Alliums like onions and garlic are effective in repelling destructive bugs that attack Brussels sprouts.
• A few options for good companion plants would be beets, carrots, corn, chamomile, garlic, dill, basil, peas, and marigolds, just to name a few. Check out the full list of plants later in this article

Understanding Companion Planting

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves growing different plants together to benefit each other and improve overall plant health.

Knowing what makes this unique strategy so helpful for your garden can open up a whole new world of gardening.

What is Companion Planting?

Companion planting is a time-tested gardening method that helps gardeners strategically pair their crops for mutual benefit.

This practice revolves around the natural relationships between plants and, when employed effectively, can boost crop yields and quality.

By planting two or more plant types close together, we form mini-ecosystems where plants work harmoniously to support each other’s growth.

They do this by contributing necessary nutrients back into the soil, preventing soil erosion due to weather conditions while also acting as living mulches that inhibit weed growth.

Moreover, certain companion combinations offer added benefits of deterring pests like beetles and aphids through natural means rather than relying on chemical treatments — think alliums like onions and garlic!

These aromatic companions help protect our beloved Brussels sprouts from destructive pests while adding peppery flavors if you plan on sautéing or roasting your harvest later.

It’s not merely about pest resistance though; some plants even act as disease safeguards against common plant ailments such as black rot or clubroot.

So, in essence, companion planting creates a symbiotic environment for optimal plant health and productivity without any extra cost!

Benefits of Companion Planting

Companion planting provides a natural and efficient way to boost the health and yield of your vegetable garden.

1. First off, companion planting can improve crop yield by promoting beneficial interactions between plants.
2. It helps in pest control by naturally repelling destructive bugs such as flea beetles, cabbage worms, and aphids with strategic plantings of alliums like onions and garlic.
3. Marigold companions are known for their protective qualities against root nematodes and various insect pests like flea beetles and spider mites.
4. Companion plants can also act as a trap crop, attracting pests away from our main crops like Brussels sprouts.
5. Soil health gets a much-needed boost from companion planting through nitrogen fixation and nutrient cycling provided by certain plant pairings.
6. Water conservation is another benefit – companions like Nasturtiums act as living mulch, insulating the soil to prevent moisture loss.
7. Plants with large leaves help provide shade to lower-growing companions, shielding them from excessive sun exposure while helping maintain cooler soil temperatures.
8. Some plants also play nicely together when it comes to nutrient needs, reducing competition for resources – a prime example is how beets add back magnesium into the soil which benefits Brussels sprouts growth.
9. Lastly, companion planting allows you to maximize space efficiency in your garden by pairing plants that grow well together without competing for space.

Why Brussels Sprouts Need Companion Plants

With all of the health benefits of Brussels sprouts, I recommend all gardeners include them in their gardens.

With the power of companion planting you can ensure your sprouts grow to their full potential.

Brussels sprouts benefit from companion plants because they help repel insects, increase nutrient availability, and attract pest predators.

Finding the right combination of plants that grow with Brussels sprouts can be tough, but I’ve compiled a list further down this article.

Repel Insects

Planting Brussels sprouts alongside the right companion crop is a smart, natural way to keep annoying pests at bay.

The pungent odor of alliums such as onions and garlic works great in repelling destructive bugs like beetles and aphids.

You can also use aromatic herbs like mint, dill, sage, and rosemary in your vegetable garden army. Their strong scent confuses insects on the hunt for their favorite brassicas – including those ever-persistent flea beetles and cabbage worms!

To add an extra line of defense, you might consider surrounding your Brussels sprouts with French marigolds or nasturtiums.

These flowering plants are known for their root nematode warding abilities while simultaneously distracting pests such as aphids away from your precious Brussels sprout crop. No toxic chemicals are needed – just clever planting!

Increase Nutrients

One of the key reasons why Brussels sprouts benefit from companion plants is that they can help increase nutrients in the soil.

By planting certain plants alongside your Brussels sprouts, you can create a diverse ecosystem that enhances nutrient availability.

For example, beets are excellent companions for Brussels sprouts because they add magnesium back to the soil and can handle similar growing conditions.

Similarly, carrots and celery have deep root systems that help break up compacted soil and bring nutrients closer to the surface where they’re accessible to all plants.

This means healthier Brussels sprouts with improved flavor and overall growth. So by strategically selecting companion plants rich in essential nutrients like these, your Brussels sprouts will thrive in a nutrient-rich environment.

Bring Pest Predators

One of the key reasons why companion planting is beneficial for Brussels sprouts is that certain plants can attract pest predators to your garden.

This means that by strategically planting companion plants, you can naturally control harmful insects without resorting to harmful chemicals.

For example, flowers like marigolds and herbs like dill and sage are known to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on common pests like aphids and cabbage worms.

By creating a diverse ecosystem in your garden with these pest predators present, you’ll be able to keep the population of destructive bugs in check and ensure the health and productivity of your Brussels sprouts crop.

Characteristics of Brussels Sprouts

Plant Family Brassicaceae	Watering Conditions Well-draining soil, keep consistently moist	Mature Size Typically 2-3 feet tall
Soil Requirements Rich, fertile soil with good drainage; pH 6.0-7.5	Sunlight Needs Full sun to light shade	Temperature Tolerance Cool-season crop, sensitive to heat; thrives in USDA zones 3-9
Growth Habit Biennial (often grown as an annual)	Flowering Period Late fall to early winter	Flower Color Yellow
Foliage Characteristics Dark green, large, and tightly packed leaves	Propagation Methods Seeds or transplants	Pruning and Maintenance Remove any yellow or damaged leaves; harvest from the bottom up as sprouts mature
Common Pests and Diseases Cabbage worms, aphids, flea beetles; clubroot, powdery mildew	Companion Planting Beets, carrots, onions, and other vegetables	Edible Parts Edible compact buds (brussels sprouts)
Wildlife Attraction Attracts pollinators like bees; birds may use the leaves for nesting material	Toxicity Non-toxic	Special Care Instructions Provide consistent moisture and cool temperatures for the best flavor; protect from pests and frost

12 Best Companion Plants for Brussels Sprouts

Now that we understand how great companion planting can be for Brussels sprouts, let’s look at a few plants that make great pairings.

Arugula, beets, carrots, dill, basil, peas, and marigolds are among the best companion plants for Brussels sprouts, but let’s dive into the full list.

1. Arugula

One of the best companion plants for Brussels sprouts is arugula. Arugula not only adds a pop of peppery flavor to your dishes but also complements the slightly bitter taste of Brussels sprouts.

These two crops grow well together, benefiting from each other’s presence in the garden.

Arugula helps repel pests like cabbage worms and flea beetles that can damage Brussels sprouts, keeping your plants healthy and thriving.

I love Arugula! It’s full of nutrients and vitamins that make it a spectacular addition to any meal or garden.

If you’re growing Brussels sprouts in your garden, you might think about planting some arugula alongside them for a delicious and pest-resistant combination!

2. Beets

Beets are an excellent companion plant for Brussels sprouts because they provide numerous benefits. First, beets are rich in magnesium, which is essential for healthy plant growth and development.

By planting beets alongside your Brussels sprouts, you can replenish the soil with this vital nutrient.

Also, beets tolerate similar growing conditions as Brussels sprouts, making them ideal companions in terms of sunlight and water requirements.

This means that both plants can thrive together without competing for resources.

If you’re needing to add valuable nutrients back into the soil, consider planting some delicious and nutritious beets right alongside them.

3. Carrots

Carrots are one of my favorite companion plants for Brussels sprouts. They enhance flavor and growth, but they also create wonderful growing conditions and help reduce pests and diseases.

By planting carrots alongside Brussels sprouts, you can maximize space in your garden and enjoy a bountiful harvest.

These two plants work together harmoniously, attracting beneficial insects that help with pollination and pest control.

Plus, certain carrot varieties can provide shade and ground cover without competing for resources or space.

4. Celery

Celery is another great companion plant for Brussels sprouts. Not only do they make great neighbors in the garden, but celery can also enhance the flavor of Brussels sprouts while providing protection against pests.

One key benefit of planting celery alongside Brussels sprouts is its ability to keep pests away.

The strong scent and natural oils in celery act as a deterrent to destructive insects like aphids and beetles, helping to keep Brussels sprouts and other brassicas safe and healthy.

Plus, celery’s deep root system improves soil structure and nutrient availability. This ultimately results in healthier growth and increased yield for both plants.

5. Corn

One of the best companion plants for Brussels sprouts is corn. Not only does corn provide shade and act as a living mulch, but it also attracts beneficial insects that help to control pests in your garden.

Corn also releases nitrogen into the soil, which is essential for the growth and development of Brussels sprouts.

Planting these two crops together allows you to create a mutually beneficial relationship that improves soil health, increases crop health, and leads to better overall yields.

Plus, who doesn’t love the combination of fresh Brussels sprouts and sweet corn on their dinner plate?

6. Chamomile

Like many of our companion plants, planting chamomile and Brussels sprouts together helps protect them from pests and diseases.

This flavorful herb should be planted with caution, as planting it too close to Brussels sprouts can stunt their growth.

However, when placed strategically nearby, chamomile repels unwanted pests while attracting beneficial insects that help keep your plants healthy and thriving.

By creating optimal growing conditions and improving soil health, chamomile contributes to maximizing your crop yields.

Plus, incorporating this natural pest repellent into your garden ensures chemical-free protection for your precious Brussels sprouts.

7. Garlic

I absolutely love planting garlic alongside my Brussels sprouts! It’s delicious and in all my favorite recipes. It also acts as a natural insect repellent that keeps away destructive pests like beetles and aphids.

Garlic belongs to the onion family, which includes other plants like onions, shallots, and chives.

When planted together with Brussels sprouts, garlic can improve their overall health and even enhance their flavor.

Garlic is a great companion plant and can have a big impact on the success of your garden.

If you’re looking for an effective way to keep pests at bay while boosting the growth and yield of your Brussels sprouts, don’t forget to plant some delicious garlic alongside them!

8. Onion

Onions are fantastic companion plants for Brussels sprouts as they naturally repel destructive pests like beetles and aphids.

They emit a strong aroma that insects find unappealing, helping to keep your Brussels sprouts free from harm.

Not only do onions act as natural insect repellents, but they also add essential nutrients to the soil, promoting healthy growth for both plants.

By planting onions alongside your Brussels sprouts, you can create a garden ecosystem that is balanced and pest-resistant.

9. Dill

Dill is a fantastic companion plant for Brussels sprouts. Not only does it repel insects, but it also enhances nutrient availability in the soil.

By interplanting dill with your Brussels sprouts, you can help keep pests at bay and provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive.

Plus, dill adds a delightful flavor to dishes when harvested alongside Brussels sprouts.

10. Basil

Basil is a fantastic companion plant for Brussels sprouts. It adds wonderful flavor to your meals and it also has numerous benefits for the growth and health of your Brussels sprouts.

When planted alongside Brussels sprouts, basil acts as a natural pest repellent, keeping flies and mosquitoes at bay.

Additionally, basil can attract beneficial insects that prey on pests, creating a balanced ecosystem in your garden.

Basil also contributes to the overall soil health by providing essential nutrients and protecting against diseases.

Plus, the peppery flavor of basil pairs perfectly with the taste of Brussels sprouts, enhancing their deliciousness.

11. Peas

Peas are not only a delicious addition to your garden, but they also make fantastic companion plants for Brussels sprouts.

By planting peas alongside your Brussels sprouts, you can enjoy a well-balanced and thriving garden.

One of the main benefits of this companionship is that peas provide nitrogen to the soil, which is essential for the growth and development of Brussels sprouts.

Additionally, peas help keep the soil moist, ensuring that your Brussels sprouts have an adequate water supply throughout their growing season.

Not only do these legumes contribute nutrients and moisture, but they also act as natural insect repellents.

Peas ward off destructive pests like beetles and aphids, protecting your precious Brussels sprouts from damage without resorting to chemicals or pesticides.

12. Marigold

Marigolds are a fantastic companion plant for Brussels sprouts. Not only do they add a splash of vibrant color to your garden, but they also provide numerous benefits to the growth and health of your Brussels sprout plants.

Marigolds act as natural insect repellents, keeping pests like flea beetles, aphids, and spider mites at bay.

These destructive pests can wreak havoc on your Brussels sprouts, causing damage to the leaves and stunting their growth.

In addition to repelling insects, marigolds have been known to enhance the flavor of vegetables when planted nearby.

By planting marigolds alongside your Brussels sprout plants, you create a protective barrier that deters these pests from attacking your crop. 

4 Plants to Avoid Planting with Brussels Sprouts

Understanding which plants to avoid when planting Brussels sprouts can really help your garden in the long run. Here are some of the worst plants for Brussels sprouts.

1. Fennel

Fennel is one plant that you should definitely keep away from your Brussels sprouts. It releases a toxic chemical that can actually kill your beloved sprouts, so it’s best to avoid planting them together.

In fact, Brussels sprouts even produce a natural chemical that inhibits fennel’s growth, making it clear they’re not the best of companions.

Instead, focus on pairing your Brussels sprouts with other beneficial plants that will enhance their growth and ward off pests naturally.

2. Strawberries

Strawberries may be a delicious addition to our breakfast bowls, but when it comes to companion planting with Brussels sprouts, they’re best kept at a distance.

Strawberries can actually inhibit the growth of Brussels sprouts and other members of the Cruciferae family.

Planting them together can lead to stunted growth and decreased crop yield. On top of that, strawberries also attract pests that can cause harm to our beloved Brussels sprouts.

If you want your Brussels sprouts to thrive and deliver their full flavor potential, it’s best to steer clear of planting them alongside strawberries in your garden.

3. Pole Beans

Pole beans are not good companions for Brussels sprouts. In fact, planting them near each other can actually stunt the growth of your Brussels sprouts.

It’s important to avoid this combination if you want healthy and thriving plants.

Instead, focus on companion plants like arugula, beets, garlic, onion, dill, basil, peas, or marigold, just to name a few, that will help repel pests and attract beneficial insects to your garden.

So skip the pole beans and opt for these more compatible companions instead.

4. Tomatoes

I learned that planting tomatoes and Brussels sprouts together is not a good idea because their close proximity can reduce yield and overall plant health.

Brussels sprouts can stunt the growth of tomatoes because both plants grow quite large and require a minimum of 6 hours of sun.

Instead, focus on planting Brussels sprouts with other compatible companions such as marigolds, basil, arugula, beets, carrots, celery, corn, chamomile, peas, or dill that will help Brussels sprouts grow. These plants can help repel pests and enrich the soil around your Brussels sprouts.

If you absolutely want to plant tomatoes in your garden (which I recommend btw), look at planting them further away from your Brussels sprouts, while adding a few tomato companion plants close by.

By choosing the right companion plants for your Brussels sprouts, you can create a thriving garden ecosystem that supports healthy growth and high crop yields.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating companion plants with Brussels sprouts can greatly benefit your garden. By selecting the right companions, you can repel pests, improve nutrient uptake, and enhance overall plant health.

From aromatic herbs like mint and dill to root-deterring marigolds and nourishing beets, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to companion planting for Brussels sprouts.

Just remember to avoid planting strawberries or other brassicas alongside them for optimal growth and harvest.

FAQs About Brussels Sprouts Companion Plants

Can you plant Brussels sprouts close together? 

Brussels sprouts need adequate space to grow and develop properly. It is not recommended to plant them too close together.

Each Brussels sprout plant requires enough space to spread out and develop its leafy canopy. Planting them too closely can lead to overcrowding, reduced airflow, increased susceptibility to diseases, and smaller sprouts.

You should space each plant about 18-24 inches apart both within the row and between rows, to ensure they have enough room for healthy growth.

Can I plant Brussels sprouts near tomatoes or peppers?

It is not recommended to plant Brussels sprouts near tomatoes or peppers as they belong to the same plant family (Solanaceae).

Planting them together can increase the risk of disease transmission and hinder each other’s growth.

How far apart should I space my companion plants from my Brussels sprout plants?

For proper spacing between companion plants and Brussels sprouts, it is generally advised to leave about 18-24 inches between each plant.

This allows enough room for both plants to grow without overcrowding or shading each other excessively.

Why are companion plants important for Brussels sprouts?

Companion plants for Brussels sprouts can help improve growth, repel pests, attract pollinators, and provide shade or support.

Can I plant Brussels sprouts with other brassicas?

No, it is not recommended to plant Brussels sprouts with other brassicas, such as cabbage, kale, and broccoli.

Do Brussels sprouts attract any beneficial insects?

Yes, Brussels sprouts can attract bees and other pollinators, which can help increase yield and improve overall garden health.

How do companion plants benefit Brussels sprouts?

Companion plants can benefit Brussels sprouts by enhancing soil nutrients and water uptake, repelling pests, and attracting beneficial insects.

Can I plant Brussels sprouts next to beets?

Yes, beets are considered a compatible companion plant for Brussels sprouts and can be planted next to them.