There are loads of cabbage companion plants because it’s such an easy-growing crop. However, it’s also vulnerable to a range of specific pests, and this is something companion plants can help with.
Below is a list of the top companion plants for cabbage that result in healthy crops.
Cabbage Companion Plants
1. Beets
Beets give nutrients back into the soil, which cabbage appreciates throughout the growing season. Also, both plants can be harvested around the same time, meaning there’s minimal root disturbance for either.
2. Celery
Celery is one of the best companion plants for cabbage. Its aroma deters the white cabbage moth, which, shockingly, feeds on cabbages. But cabbage can also help celery by providing shelter from the wind while it’s in its early growth stage.
You’ll need a large pot to grow these plants together. At the very least, use 5-gallon planters (like this) for each cabbage plant.
3. Borage
Borage is another good cabbage companion plant because it attracts pollinators and predatory insects. At the same time, it repels cabbage moths. You don’t need to keep it in the same pot; nearby is fine.
4. Beans
Beans and other legumes are ideal cabbage companion plants. Like beets, they feed nutrients back into the soil. But their more important use is to provide shade to cabbages. This is particularly useful on uncovered balconies, where you might not have much natural shade.
5. Dill
There are plenty of herbs you can use as companion plants for cabbage. Their aromas help to repel certain pests and their flowers can attract beneficial insects. Other herbs that work include rosemary, thyme, and cilantro.
Dill is a particular favorite because it not only repels cabbage moths but also attracts predators for worms and loopers. Throwing a few herbs in a simple railing planter (like this) will be fine.
What Not to Plant with Cabbage
An important aspect of companion planting is knowing plants that don’t work together. Some plants to avoid keeping with cabbage include:
1. Brassicas
Cabbage is a brassica, as are broccoli, kale, cauliflower, etc. It’s never a good idea to keep crops from the same family near one another because they’re susceptible to the same pests and diseases.
For example, almost all brassicas are vulnerable to the white cabbage moth. If you get a sudden infestation, you could lose your crops before realizing.
2. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are heavy nitrogen feeders, as are cabbages. Gardening lore says that cabbages can inhibit the growth of tomatoes, but there’s no real proof of this.
You’ll be fine to keep both plants on the same balcony. Just don’t grow them in the same soil.
Final Thoughts on Companion Plants for Cabbage
As a general rule, most cabbage companion plants will work with other brassicas. Whereas some crops benefit from pollinators and soil fixers, the main goal with companion plants for cabbages is to repel pests. But once you’ve got this down, you should have a happy garden and a bountiful harvest.