Eggplant Companion Planting: Benefits, Find Out Which Are The Best Companion Plants and Which Are Not

Eggplant companion planting is a centuries-old gardening practice that involves growing compatible plants together to enhance growth, improve nutrient uptake, and provide pest control. It’s an effective, environmentally friendly, and sustainable method of gardening that benefits both the plants and the gardener. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of companion planting with eggplants, the best companion plants for them, bad companion plants for eggplants, and the principles behind the practice.

Benefits of Eggplant Companion Planting

Pest Control

One of the primary reasons for companion planting is to control pests naturally. Certain plants can deter pests or act as a trap crop, luring pests away from the eggplants. For example, nasturtiums can repel aphids and flea beetles, while marigolds can deter nematodes. By planting these companions, you can reduce the need for chemical pesticides and maintain a healthier garden.

Improved Pollination

Companion plants that attract pollinators, like bees and butterflies, can increase the pollination rate of eggplants, leading to higher yields. Plants with showy flowers or fragrant scents are especially effective at attracting pollinators.

Soil Health and Nutrient Uptake

Some companion plants can fix nitrogen in the soil, providing essential nutrients for eggplants and other plants. Legumes like beans and peas are excellent nitrogen fixers. Other plants, like marigolds, can help control root-knot nematodes, parasites that attack the roots of eggplants and other plants, leading to decreased nutrient uptake.

Improved Growth and Flavor

Certain plants can improve the growth and flavor of eggplants. For example, basil is known to enhance the taste of eggplants and tomatoes while also helping them grow better. Additionally, some plants can act as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds around the eggplants.

Eggplant Companion Planting

Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular companion plant for eggplants because they repel nematodes. They produce a natural chemical called alpha-terthienyl that is toxic to nematodes, helping protect the eggplants’ roots. In addition, their bright flowers attract pollinators to the garden.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are another excellent eggplant companion, as they can repel pests like aphids and flea beetles. Their vibrant flowers also attract pollinators, improving the pollination rate of eggplants.

Beans and Peas

Eggplants benefit from the nitrogen fixed in the soil by legumes like beans and peas. They also help suppress weeds and improve soil structure.

Basil

Basil is known to enhance the flavor of eggplants and tomatoes. It can also repel pests like whiteflies and mosquitoes, making it a useful addition to your eggplant garden.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are tall, sturdy plants that can provide shade and support for eggplants. Their large flowers attract pollinators and can also help deter pests like aphids.

Calendula

Calendula, or pot marigold, is another excellent plant to grow with eggplants. Its bright flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects, while its roots exude a substance that can suppress nematodes.

Spinach and Lettuce

Spinach and lettuce can serve as living mulch for eggplants, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds. These leafy greens also benefit from the shade provided by the eggplants, making them an ideal companion.

Dill

Dill is an aromatic herb that can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which help control pests such as aphids. Its strong scent can also deter pests, making it a valuable addition to your eggplant garden.

Tarragon

Tarragon, another fragrant herb, can help repel pests with its strong scent. Its delicate, anise-like flavor makes it a popular culinary herb, making it a versatile eggplant companion.

Borage

Borage is a flowering herb that can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. Its edible leaves and flowers can also be used in salads and beverages, making it a practical and beautiful addition to your eggplant garden.

In case you missed it: How to Increase Female Flowers in Brinjal/Eggplant: Explained in 10 Simple Steps

Chives

Chives are a useful companion plant for eggplants because they can repel pests like aphids and mites with their strong scent. In addition, chives can attract beneficial insects and pollinators, which can help improve your garden’s overall health and productivity.

Principles of Eggplant Companion Planting

Understanding Plant Relationships

Not all plants are compatible, and it’s crucial to understand their relationships before planting them together. For example, while marigolds are beneficial to eggplants, planting them too close may stunt the growth of the eggplants. Therefore, it’s essential to research and understands each plant’s specific needs and compatibility.

Plant Spacing and Arrangement

Proper spacing and arrangement of companion plants are crucial for their success. Eggplants require adequate space for their roots to grow and access nutrients, so be sure not to overcrowd them with companion plants. Also, consider planting the companions in alternating rows or clusters to maximize their benefits without competing for resources.

Timing and Succession Planting

Timing plays a significant role in the success of companion planting. Some companion plants have different growth rates and life cycles than eggplants, so it’s essential to plan accordingly. For example, beans and peas should be sown earlier than eggplants to establish their roots and start fixing nitrogen before the eggplants need it. Succession planting can also ensure a continuous supply of beneficial plants throughout the growing season.

Balancing Diversity and Stability

A diverse garden ecosystem can be more resilient to pests and diseases, but too much diversity can lead to competition and instability. Striking the right balance is essential for a successful companion planting strategy. Experiment with different combinations of companion plants and observe their effects on the eggplants to determine the optimal mix.

Companion Planting Practices to Avoid with Eggplants

Avoid Planting Eggplants with Allelopathic Plants

Allelopathic plants release chemicals that can inhibit the growth of nearby plants. For example, plants in the Brassica family, like cabbage and kale, can release substances that stunt the growth of eggplants. Therefore, it’s best to avoid planting them together.

Don’t Plant Eggplants Near Potatoes and Tomatoes

Eggplants, potatoes, and tomatoes are all members of the Solanaceae family, which means they share common pests and diseases. Planting them too close together can increase the risk of these problems spreading, so keeping them separate in the garden is best.

Avoid Excessive Nitrogen

Nitrogen is needed for plant development, however, excessive vegetative growth in eggplants might reduce fruit production. Avoid planting high-nitrogen-fixing plants, like alfalfa or clover, directly next to eggplants, as they may cause an imbalance in nitrogen levels.

In case you missed it: How to Grow Eggplants/Brinjal in Greenhouse: A Step-by-Step Guide for Seed to Harvest

Conclusion

Eggplant companion planting is an effective and sustainable gardening practice that can improve your eggplants’ health, growth, and yield. Consider plant relationships, spacing, timing, and diversity when planning your companion planting strategy, and avoid practices that may hinder your eggplants’ growth.