31 Best Companion Plants for Beans (And 5 to Stay Away From)

If you’re feeling stuck on how to diversify your garden and optimize the health of your green bean and bush bean plants, but don’t know where to start, then companion planting might be your answer.

Companion planting is a gardening technique that combines certain plants for their mutual benefit, and can be key to achieving a healthier, thriving garden.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore different companion plants for beans and share insights into their benefits including pest control, improved soil health, and increased yields.

Key Takeaways

• Companion planting with beans can lead to increased crop yields, improved soil health, efficient use of garden space, and natural pest control.
• Beans have nitrogen-fixing properties that enrich the soil and promote healthier and more productive crops when planted alongside other vegetables or flowering plants.
• Basil, beets, borage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are excellent companion plants for beans due to their ability to enhance flavors, repel pests, and improve soil health through nutrient accumulation or root system benefits.

Understanding Companion Planting

Companion planting promotes mutual growth and health benefits for diverse types of plants when planted together in the same garden space.

A key principle behind this is ‘symbiosis’, where distinct species interact to the advantage of one or both parties involved, often enhancing nutrient availability, warding off pests, or creating an overall better soil quality and fertility.

Beans serve as classic candidates for companion planting due to their nitrogen-fixing properties. As legumes, beans work in harmony with Rhizobium bacteria inhabiting root nodules to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a more accessible form for plant consumption—a process vital for promoting leaf growth and flower development.

Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with numerous vegetable crops and flowering plants from corn and cabbage to marigolds and nasturtiums.

This not only adds visual interest but also boosts yields while naturally keeping harmful insects away.

Benefits of Companion Planting with Beans

Beans as a Companion Plant

If you’re wondering why companion planting with beans is so beneficial it’s because they help increase crop yields, improve soil health for other nearby plants, are an efficient use of garden space, and are a natural pest deterrent.

Increased Crop Yields

Integrating beans into your garden through companion planting can significantly boost crop yields. As nitrogen-fixing plants, beans enrich the soil naturally, leading to healthier and more productive crops.

By sharing this bounty of nutrients with their nearby plant partners, they create a mutually beneficial relationship that results in higher overall productivity.

For instance, tall climbers like pole beans offer vertical growth, allowing sunlight to reach lower-growing plants for an efficient use of space which ultimately increases output.

Basil is an excellent case in point as it not only enhances the flavor of beans but aids leaf production as well. both factors play vital roles in increasing crop yield.

Similarly, borage flowers are showy additions to any vegetable garden attracting pollinators while warding off pests from precious bean crops.

The science is clear: compatible plants can help dry beans, bush beans, and pole beans grow. The ideal companion plants for beans will increase crop yields and provide substantial benefits for all garden vegetables involved.

Improved Soil Health

Planting beans in your garden can deliver fantastic benefits, especially when it comes to soil health. Beans are known as nitrogen-fixing plants.

They collaborate with bacteria present in the soil to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use.

This natural process enhances the availability of nitrogen in the soil, promoting leaf growth and flower development for other crops you’re cultivating alongside your beans.

Marigolds and chamomile companion plants go a step further by accumulating nutrients and improving overall soil quality and fertility – an investment that pays off season after season.

So not only does cultivating beans help produce delicious yield but it also enriches your garden’s soil naturally, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Efficient Use of Garden Space

Companion planting with beans allows for efficient use of garden space, making it ideal for small home gardens or those with limited space.

Strategically choosing companion plants that complement each other’s growth habits, you can maximize the productivity of your garden while ensuring every inch of soil is put to good use.

For example, tall sun-loving plants such as corn or sunflowers can provide shade to smaller shade-loving plants like spinach, creating a harmonious environment where both thrive. This not only saves space but also helps control pests and improve overall crop production.

Additionally, some companion plants physically support each other, reducing the need for staking and allowing you to make the most out of vertical gardening techniques.

Natural Pest Control

Companion planting with beans offers a natural and effective method for pest control in your garden. Finding the right companion plants can help deter pests and keep your beans healthy.

For example, basil plants grow well alongside your beans, not only because they add flavor to your dishes but also because they repel harmful insects like aphids and bean beetles.

Marigolds are another great option as their strong scent repels nematodes and other damaging soil pests.

Intercropping with aromatic herbs such as oregano can also confuse pests with its intense fragrance, making it harder for them to find your precious bean plants.

Embracing companion planting for natural pest control is not only eco-friendly but also boosts the overall health of your garden ecosystem.

The practice of companion planting provides an alternative solution to chemical pesticides, ensuring a healthier environment for both you and your plants.

By attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings through the use of companion plants such as borage or dill, you’ll have an army of nature’s pest controllers keeping harmful bugs at bay while providing pollination services to enhance bean production.

Additionally, some companion plants release compounds that act as insect repellents or disrupt the mating patterns of certain pests, effectively reducing their population without resorting to harsh chemicals or synthetic interventions.

The Science of Beans

Beans are fascinating plants that have a unique scientific structure and growth process. Dry beans, pole, and bush beans all belong to the pea family, along with peas, peanuts, and lentils. Beans come in different varieties, including pole beans and bush beans.

Pole beans are climbing vines that need support to grow upright, while bush beans are compact plants that do not require staking.

Bean plants in general thrive in well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. They prefer full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade as well.

Beans have shallow root systems that benefit from loose soil with good drainage for proper oxygen supply.

One interesting aspect of beans is their ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere into the soil with beneficial bacteria called rhizobia. This process helps improve soil fertility by providing an essential nutrient for plant growth.

Additionally, some bean varieties have specific requirements for optimal development, such as adequate moisture levels during flowering and fruiting stages.

Understanding the science behind bean growth can help gardeners make informed decisions about planting strategies and care practices. Beans will help keep soil conditions ideal but might need the necessary support for climbing varieties.

Characteristics of Beans

Plant Family Fabaceae	Watering Conditions Well-draining soil, keep consistently moist	Mature Size Varies by variety; typically 1-6 feet tall
Soil Requirements Well-draining, loamy soil; pH 6.0-7.0	Sunlight Needs Full sun	Temperature Tolerance Warm-weather crop, sensitive to frost; thrives in USDA zones 3-11
Growth Habit Annual climbing or bushy plant, depending on the variety	Flowering Period Summer	Flower Color White, pink, purple, or red depending on the variety
Foliage Characteristics Green, compound leaves	Propagation Methods Seeds (direct sowing)	Pruning and Maintenance Bush beans may not require support, but pole beans need trellising; harvest regularly to promote growth
Common Pests and Diseases Aphids, bean beetles, spider mites; bacterial and fungal diseases	Companion Planting Carrots, corn, cucumbers, radishes, and other vegetables	Edible Parts Edible pods and edible seeds (beans)
Wildlife Attraction Bean flowers attract pollinators like bees	Toxicity Non-toxic	Special Care Instructions Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which can promote leafy growth and reduce bean production

31 Best Companion Plants for Beans

While this list might be extensive, these are the ideal companion plants for bush beans, green beans, pole beans, kidney beans, and other bean plants.

For optimal growth and pest control, consider combining different plants like basil, beets, borage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts with your beans. 

1. Basil

Basil is an excellent companion plant for beans, offering numerous benefits to your garden. Not only does basil enhance the flavor of beans, but it also repels common pests like aphids and flea beetles.

Additionally, basil attracts beneficial insects such as lacewings and hoverflies, which help control garden pests naturally. This aromatic herb requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure, making it an ideal choice for planting alongside your beans.

2. Beets

Beets are excellent companion plants for beans in your garden. They belong to the same plant family as beans, so they naturally thrive when planted together. Beets provide a variety of benefits to bean plants and help create a balanced ecosystem in your garden.

One important reason to plant beets alongside beans is their ability to improve soil health. Beets have deep roots that break up compacted soil, allowing better water drainage and nutrient absorption for both plants.

Beets are nitrogen accumulators, which means they take nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that other plants can use. This helps put more nitrogen into the soil which is an essential nutrient for healthy bean growth.

Another advantage of planting beets with beans is natural pest control. Beets contain compounds that repel harmful pests like aphids and Mexican bean beetles, reducing the risk of infestations on your bean plants.

By integrating these two crops in your garden bed, you create a mutually beneficial relationship where the presence of one plant protects the other from destructive insects.

3. Borage

Borage is a fantastic companion plant for beans, offering both ecological and culinary benefits. This beautiful edible flower not only adds vibrant color to your garden but also attracts beneficial insects and deters pests from beans.

Borage has earned its place among the top companion plants for beans because of its ability to enhance the overall health and productivity of your garden.

By planting borage alongside your beans, you can attract important pollinators like bees and butterflies while controlling harmful bugs in a natural way.

Plus, borage’s attractive flowers make it a beautiful addition to any vegetable garden.

4. Broccoli

Broccoli is an excellent companion plant for beans in your garden. Not only does it provide shade and shelter to the beans, but it also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that help control pests.

Additionally, broccoli accumulates calcium, potassium, and sulfur in the soil, improving its fertility for both crops. By planting these two together, you can create a balanced ecosystem that promotes healthy plant growth and maximizes your crop production.

5. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are excellent companion plants for beans, providing a variety of benefits in the garden. These leafy green vegetables create shade and ground cover, helping to conserve moisture and prevent soil erosion.

They also attract beneficial insects like lacewings and hoverflies, which prey on common bean pests such as aphids and bean beetles.

Furthermore, Brussels sprouts have deep root systems that improve soil structure and nutrient availability for neighboring bean plants.

When planning your bean garden, consider incorporating Brussels sprouts to enhance overall plant health and increase crop yields.

6. Cabbage

Cabbage is a great companion plant for beans, offering a range of benefits when grown together in the garden. Planting cabbage alongside beans can provide shade for the bean plants, promoting healthy growth and development.

Additionally, cabbage benefits from the nitrogen-fixing ability of beans, which improves soil quality and fertility. This dynamic duo also works together to deter common pests like Mexican bean beetles, creating a more sustainable and balanced ecosystem in your garden.

By interplanting cabbage with beans, you can maximize space utilization while enhancing crop productivity. The physical support provided by the bean plants also reduces the need for additional staking or support for the cabbage plants.

7. Carrots

Carrots are a fantastic companion plant for beans due to their numerous benefits. When planted near beans, carrots help improve soil quality by accumulating essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, and sulfur.

This enhances the overall fertility of the soil, providing a healthier environment for both plants.

Additionally, carrots physically support bean plants, eliminating the need for staking and allowing them to grow tall and strong.

Moreover, carrots attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, bees, and butterflies that aid in pollination and control harmful pests.

Together with beans, carrots create a dynamic duo that not only improves garden productivity but also adds beauty with their colorful flowers.

8. Catnip

Catnip is an excellent companion plant for beans in your garden mainly for its ability to deter pests. It does a great job of repelling pests like aphids and Mexican bean beetles, and also attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings.

Catnip’s strong aroma deters harmful insects while promoting pollination by attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Moreover, catnip helps improve soil quality by adding organic matter and enhancing its fertility.

Its deep roots prevent soil erosion while protecting the roots of nearby plants.

9. Celery

Celery is an excellent companion plant for beans due to its unique ability to repel pests and attract beneficial insects.

Not only does celery deter pests like aphids and spider mites, but it also attracts pollinators such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which help maintain a balanced ecosystem in your garden.

Moreover, celery’s deep root system helps prevent soil erosion and protects the delicate roots of bean plants.

Additionally, celery is known to improve the overall soil quality by adding organic matter and nutrients through its decomposition process.

10. Chamomile

Chamomile is an excellent companion plant for beans due to its ability to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and hoverflies.

These helpful insects prey on pests like aphids and Mexican bean beetles, keeping your bean plants healthy and pest-free.

Chamomile also improves soil quality by increasing nitrogen availability, which promotes leaf growth, flower development, and fruit production in beans.

Additionally, the delicate flowers of chamomile add a beautiful touch to your garden while providing important pollinators with a valuable source of nectar.

11. Corn

Corn is a fantastic companion plant for beans in your garden. It not only provides a natural trellis for pole beans to climb on but also offers shade and support.

In the Three Sisters gardening method, which combines corn, beans, and squash, corn plays a crucial role as the backbone of this symbiotic relationship.

The tall stalks of corn plants create a perfect structure for bean vines to grow upwards while providing shade for the delicate root systems of both plants.

Additionally, corn adds nitrogen to the soil, benefiting not only itself but also the bean plants around it.

This dynamic duo will enhance each other’s growth and ensure a bountiful harvest in your garden.

12. Cucumbers

Cucumbers are an excellent companion plant for beans, offering a multitude of benefits in the garden. They thrive in similar growing conditions, making them ideal partners for each other.

By planting cucumbers with beans, you can maximize space and improve productivity in small gardens.

Cucumber plants provide shade to the beans, helping bush beans grow and providing potential pest control.

Cucumbers and beans belong to the same family which means they complement each other when planted together.

I highly recommend pairing cucumbers as companions to beans for their mutual benefits in your garden.

13. Dill

Dill is a fantastic companion plant for beans due to its ability to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help control common garden pests like aphids and bean beetles.

Additionally, dill’s strong aroma can confuse and repel unwanted pests, acting as a natural insect repellent. This herb also enhances the flavors of beans when grown together in the garden bed.

Beyond its pest management benefits, dill requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure to thrive – ideal conditions that are also suitable for growing beans.

14. Eggplants

Eggplants are also fantastic companion plants for beans in your garden. They not only provide shade and shelter for the beans but also help deter pests like aphids and spider mites.

In addition, eggplants have deep roots that improve soil structure and drainage, benefiting the overall health of your bean plants.

With their beautiful purple flowers, they also attract pollinators, ensuring better fruit development for both crops. So, be sure to include eggplants as valuable companion plants when planting beans in your garden!

15. Marigolds

Marigolds are considered one of the best companion plants for beans, offering both practical benefits and aesthetic appeal.

These vibrant flowers not only add a burst of color to your garden but also help repel pests that can be harmful to your bean plants.

In particular, marigolds are known to deter Mexican bean beetles, making them an essential addition to any bean garden.

By planting marigolds alongside your beans or alternating them with bean rows, you can create a natural barrier against these destructive pests.

Additionally, marigolds serve as trap crops, luring insects away from your precious beans and protecting them from potential harm.

So not only do marigolds enhance the beauty of your garden, but they also provide an effective defense system for your beloved bean plants.

Marigolds are more than just pretty flowers; they offer valuable protection and support for beans in a variety of ways.

Their pest-repellent properties make them a popular choice among gardeners who want to keep harmful bugs, like Colorado potato beetles, at bay without resorting to chemical pesticides.

By planting marigold varieties, such as African and French marigolds, between or alongside your bean plants, you can create a balanced ecosystem that attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings while deterring unwanted visitors such as aphids and spider mites.

Furthermore, by repelling pests and attracting helpful allies, marigolds contribute to improved soil health by reducing the likelihood of infestations or diseases that can negatively impact the growth of your beans.

16. Nasturtium

Nasturtium is a fantastic companion plant for beans that not only enhances the beauty of your garden but also provides added benefits to your bean plants.

This vibrant flowering plant can deter Mexican bean beetles, one of the common pests that attack beans while attracting beneficial insects like pollinators.

Planting nasturtium in corners or containers near your beans can act as a trap crop for aphids and help keep them away from your precious harvest.

17. Oregano

Oregano is a versatile and beneficial companion plant for beans in your garden. Not only does it add a delightful flavor to dishes when paired with beans, but it also offers several advantages to neighboring bean plants.

Oregano has properties that can help deter aphids, which are common pests for beans while attracting beneficial hoverflies that aid in pest control.

Additionally, oregano contributes to creating a more biodiverse garden ecosystem by attracting these helpful insects.

Its aromatic qualities also make it an appealing addition to any herb bed or vegetable garden.

18. Peas

Peas are excellent companion plants for beans in your garden. They belong to the legume family, just like beans, and they have a symbiotic relationship that benefits both plants.

Peas are nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be easily used by other plants.

This process increases the availability of nitrogen in the soil, promoting healthy leaf growth and overall plant development for both peas and beans.

Additionally, peas help to improve soil fertility by adding organic matter when their roots decompose after harvest.

19. Potatoes

Potatoes are not only a delicious and versatile vegetable, but they also make excellent companion plants for beans in the garden.

When planted alongside beans, potatoes help to improve soil health by adding organic matter and increasing nutrients in the soil which help the growth of bean plants.

They also serve as natural mulch, protecting the delicate bean roots from excessive heat and moisture fluctuations.

Additionally, the tall foliage of potato plants can provide much-needed shade to smaller shade-loving bean varieties, ensuring better crop production.

The combination of beans and potatoes creates a balanced ecosystem where both plants benefit from each other’s presence while maximizing space in your garden.

20. Pumpkins

Pumpkins are a fantastic companion plant for beans in your garden. Not only do they provide shade and support to the beans, but they also help to suppress weeds.

The vibrant flowers of pumpkins attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees, promoting a healthy ecosystem.

What’s more, pumpkins are nitrogen-fixing plants, enriching the soil with this vital nutrient and benefiting all nearby plants. They can even be planted alongside fruit trees to provide additional nitrogen.

With their aesthetic appeal and numerous advantages, incorporating pumpkins into your bean garden is a smart choice for improving soil quality and fertility while maximizing space utilization.

21. Radishes

Radishes are a fantastic companion plant for beans, and they offer numerous benefits to your garden. These vibrant root vegetables can act as weed suppressors for young bean plants, creating a natural barrier against unwanted growth.

Additionally, radishes are excellent choices for intercropping with beans since they thrive in the shade provided by taller plants. As mentioned in the ultimate guide to companion plants for beans, radishes are associated with improved soil quality and fertility.

They help break up compacted soil, allowing air and water to reach the roots of both crops efficiently. Plus, these colorful flowers attract beneficial insects that prey on pests that may affect your bean crop positively.

22. Rosemary

Rosemary is a valuable companion plant for beans due to its numerous benefits. It not only enhances the flavor of beans but also repels Mexican bean beetles, a common pest found on beans.

Additionally, rosemary benefits from the nitrogen boost provided by beans, making it an excellent addition to any vegetable garden.

This aromatic herb attracts beneficial insects that pollinate and control harmful bugs, creating a balanced ecosystem in your garden.

By planting rosemary alongside your beans, you’ll not only enjoy healthy plants but also deter pests naturally without resorting to chemical pesticides.

23. Savory

Savory is an excellent companion plant for beans in your garden. Not only does it enhance the flavors of both plants when grown together, but it also contributes to better soil quality and fertility.

Savory’s strong fragrance helps repel pests like aphids and bean beetles, making it a natural deterrent for these common garden nuisances.

Additionally, savory attracts beneficial insects such as lacewings and hoverflies that assist in pollination and pest control.

24. Spinach

Spinach is an excellent companion plant for beans as it provides a multitude of benefits in the garden. By planting spinach near sun-loving beans, you can create shade that extends the growth of both plants.

Furthermore, spinach thrives when fertilized with nitrogen, which coincidentally is abundant in bean roots thanks to its ability to fix nitrogen from the air.

This partnership not only encourages leafy growth but also results in a larger harvest overall.

Additionally, if you’re growing trellised pole beans or tall bush beans, planting them alongside spinach can help protect it from scorching hot weather by providing much-needed shade.

With similar water needs and the potential for longer-lasting growth, pairing spinach with beans is a smart choice for any gardener looking to optimize their space and increase their crop yield.

25. Strawberries

Strawberries are excellent companion plants for beans in the garden. Not only do they add beauty to your vegetable patch, but they also offer numerous benefits when planted alongside beans.

Strawberries are low-growing plants that help suppress weeds and prevent soil erosion, creating a healthier growing environment for both crops.

Furthermore, strawberries have shallow root systems that don’t compete with bean roots for nutrients, allowing them to coexist harmoniously.

Additionally, strawberries attract pollinators like bees and hoverflies, helping to increase bean yields through improved flower development and fruit production.

Maybe think about planting a few strawberries next to your beans this next season!

26. Summer Squash

Summer squash is another great option as a companion plant for beans in your garden. Not only does it serve as a ground cover, protecting the delicate roots of beans from sun exposure and erosion, but it also acts as a natural weed suppressor.

The dense foliage of summer squash shades the soil, preventing weed growth and reducing competition for nutrients.

Additionally, planting low-growing strawberries near pole or bush beans allows extra space for the beans to climb and flourish.

This clever combination maximizes productivity while maintaining efficient use of garden space. As an added benefit, summer squash attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, ensuring that your bean plants have ample opportunities for successful pollination and abundant harvests.

27. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are an excellent companion plant for beans in your garden. They provide numerous benefits to the growth and development of beans, making them a valuable addition to your vegetable patch.

Sweet potatoes have the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, creating a favorable environment for beans to thrive. This not only improves soil fertility but also enhances the overall quality of the soil.

In addition, sweet potatoes can serve as shade and ground cover for beans, preventing soil erosion caused by harsh weather conditions.

The presence of sweet potato vines can also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, bees, and butterflies, aiding in pollination and natural pest control.

28. Swiss Chard

Swiss chard is a fantastic companion plant for beans, whether you’re growing bush or pole varieties. This leafy green not only enhances the flavor of your beans but also provides them with several benefits.

Swiss chard and beans have a symbiotic relationship where they share nitrogen and shade, promoting healthy growth for both plants.

By planting Swiss chard alongside your beans, you can maximize space in small gardens while attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees that help control harmful bugs.

Additionally, Swiss chard can physically support your bean plants, reducing the need for staking. With its colorful foliage, Swiss chard adds an aesthetic appeal to your vegetable garden while improving productivity.

29. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are considered one of the top companion plants for beans in the garden. Not only do they enhance each other’s flavor, but they also provide mutual benefits when planted together.

Tomatoes and beans share similar growing conditions, both requiring full sun exposure and well-drained soil.

When interplanted, tomatoes can provide shade to smaller bean plants, protecting them from excessive heat and helping to conserve moisture in the soil. In return, beans act as natural supports for tomato vines, reducing the need for staking or trellising.

Additionally, these two crops attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees that help with pollination and control harmful pests such as aphids or caterpillars.

So if you’re planning your garden layout this season, consider pairing tomatoes with beans for a fruitful and harmonious gardening experience!

30. Zinnias

Zinnias are a fantastic companion plant for beans in your garden. Not only do they add a splash of vibrant color with their beautiful flowers, but they also attract important pollinators that can benefit your bean plants.

These colorful blooms can make your vegetable garden more attractive while providing an excellent environment for beneficial insects to thrive.

Whether you’re growing pole beans or bush beans, incorporating zinnias into your garden is a valuable addition when looking for companion plants to enhance the growth and productivity of your beans.

31. Zucchini

Zucchini is a fantastic companion plant for beans, offering numerous benefits to your garden. First of all, zucchini provides shade and ground cover for beans, helping to regulate soil temperature and reduce moisture evaporation.

This ensures that the delicate bean roots stay protected and hydrated throughout the growing season.

Additionally, zucchini attracts important pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are crucial for successful bean production.

By having zucchini nearby, you’ll increase the chances of abundant bean harvests. Zucchini has similar growing conditions to beans, making them compatible partners in the garden. They both prefer full sun exposure and well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter.

5 Worst Companion Plants to Grow With Beans

Companion planting is an effective way to maximize your garden’s productivity while creating a balanced ecosystem. By choosing the right companion plants for your beans, you can improve soil fertility, deter pests naturally, and increase crop yields.

However, it is equally important to be aware of plants that may hinder the growth of beans. Avoiding these plants will help ensure successful bean cultivation in your garden.

• Sunflowers: While sunflowers may be a beautiful addition to your garden, they can compete with beans for sunlight and nutrients, which will stunt the growth of beans.
• Onions: Onions have been found to inhibit the growth of beans and other legumes. It’s best to keep these two plants separate in your garden.
• Garlic: Similar to onions, garlic can also inhibit the growth of beans. It’s advisable to keep them away from each other.
• Fennel: Fennel contains natural chemicals that can negatively affect the growth of beans. It’s better to plant them in different areas of your garden.
• Kohlrabi: Kohlrabi releases substances that can hinder bean growth. To ensure optimal growth for both plants, it’s best to avoid planting them together.

Final Thoughts

Companion planting is a fantastic way to enhance the growth and productivity of your bean plants. By strategically selecting companion plants like basil, beets, and borage, you can increase crop yields, improve soil health, and naturally control pests.

Well, there you have it. You have all the information you need to create a thriving garden filled with delicious beans and complementary plant partners.

If you’d like to learn more about companion planting as a whole, check out our complete guide to companion planting.

FAQs About Bean Companion Plants

Can companion plants help repel pests from beans?

Yes, companion plants can help repel pests from beans. For example, planting marigolds near beans can help repel flea beetles, which are known to attack the roots of plants.

Some companion plants release certain compounds or attract beneficial insects that can deter pests.

Are there any companion plants that can improve soil fertility for beans?

Yes, planting beans alongside nitrogen-fixing plants like peas or clover can help increase the availability of nitrogen in the soil, which is essential for bean growth.

Additionally, adding organic matter or using compost can also contribute to soil fertility.

Can I interplant beans with other garden plants?

Yes, you can interplant beans with other garden plants. However, it’s important to consider the spacing requirements and growth habits of both the beans and the other plants.

Make sure there is enough space for each plant to grow and develop without competing for resources. You’ll need to look at spacing requirements for both plants and plan your garden accordingly.