Mustard is great to grow. It’s a versatile and rewarding plant.
But did you know that planting it alongside certain companions can boost its growth and health? It’s true!
So you want to get those companions right. This guide from my years in the garden will show you the best plants to grow with mustard.
1. Spinach
Why Spinach?
Spinach and mustard make a great pair. Spinach thrives in the cool seasons just like mustard and their root systems don’t compete much.
Growing Spinach
Soil: Well-drained and rich in organic matter.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination.
Location: Partial to full sun.
Benefits
Pest Control: Spinach can help deter pests that might otherwise feast on mustard.
Soil Health: Both plants contribute to soil health by adding organic matter.
2. Dill
Why Dill?
Dill attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies which help control aphids and other pests that can plague mustard plants.
Growing Dill
Soil: Light, well drained.
Watering: Moderate watering, avoid waterlogging.
Location: Full sun.
Benefits
Natural Pest Control: Dill brings in the good bugs that keep the bad bugs at bay.
Flavor Boost: Harvest dill leaves for culinary use enhancing the flavor of your dishes.
3. Lettuce
Why Lettuce?
Lettuce can be a great companion because it grows quickly and can provide ground cover which reduces weed growth around your mustard plants.
Growing Lettuce
Soil: Loose, well drained soil rich in organic matter.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist.
Location: Partial shade to full sun.
Benefits
Weed Control: Lettuce helps suppress weeds keeping the area around mustard clear.
Soil Moisture: Retains soil moisture, beneficial for mustard growth.
4. Carrots
Why Carrots?
Carrots and mustard grow well together because carrots have deep roots that help break up the soil, improving aeration and water penetration.
Growing Carrots
Soil: Loose, sandy loam is best.
Watering: Regular watering and making sure it has deep penetration.
Location: Full sun to partial shade.
Benefits
Soil Aeration: Carrots improve soil structure which benefits mustard.
Space Efficiency: Both plants utilize different soil depths making efficient use of the space.
5. Onions
Why Onions?
Onions can help repel certain pests that might harm mustard plants making them an excellent companion.
Growing Onions
Soil: Well drained, fertile soil.
Watering: Moderate watering don’t let the soil dry out.
Location: Full sun.
Benefits
Pest Repellent: Onions deter aphids, carrot flies and other pests.
Flavor Enhancer: Adds flavor to your garden harvest.
6. Cabbage
Why Cabbage?
Cabbage and mustard belong to the same family (Brassicaceae), so they share similar growing conditions and can benefit from each other’s presence.
Growing Cabbage
Soil: Rich, well drained soil with plenty of organic matter.
Watering: Regular watering keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Location: Full sun.
Benefits
Shared Care: Both require similar care, making garden maintenance easier.
Pest Attraction: Mustard can act as a trap crop for pests that might otherwise attack cabbage.
7. Nasturtiums
Why Nasturtiums?
Nasturtiums are known for attracting aphids away from mustard and other vegetables, acting as a sacrificial plant.
Growing Nasturtiums
Soil: Any well-drained soil.
Watering: Moderate watering.
Location: Full sun to partial shade.
Benefits
Pest Control: Attracts pests away from mustard.
Edible Flowers: The flowers are edible and add a peppery taste to salads.
8. Marigolds
Why Marigolds?
Marigolds are famous for their pest-repelling properties, particularly against nematodes and aphids.
Growing Marigolds
Soil: Light, well drained soil.
Watering: Regular watering. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
Location: Full sun.
Benefits
Pest Repellent: Helps keep pests away from mustard.
Bright Blooms: Adds color to your garden.
9. Beans
Why Beans?
Beans can fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching it and benefiting nitrogen-hungry mustard plants.
Growing Beans
Soil: Well drained, rich in organic matter.
Watering: Keep soil moist, especially during flowering and pod formation.
Location: Full sun.
Benefits
Nitrogen Fixation: Improves soil fertility for mustard.
Support: Bush beans can provide ground cover.
10. Beets
Why Beets?
Beets and mustard coexist well because they have different nutrient needs and root depths, reducing competition.
Growing Beets
Soil: Loose, fertile soil.
Watering: Regular, consistent watering.
Location: Full sun to partial shade.
Benefits
Soil Health: Beets improve soil structure.
Harvest Variety: Adds variety to your garden harvest.
Tips for Successful Companion Planting
Planting Layout
Intercropping: Mix mustard with companions in alternating rows or patches.
Spacing: Ensure adequate space for each plant to thrive.
Soil Preparation
Compost: Add compost to improve soil fertility.
pH Balance: Test and adjust soil pH as needed.
Watering and Maintenance
Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds.
Regular Inspection: Check plants regularly for pests and diseases.
Harvesting Tips
Timing: Harvest mustard leaves when young for tender greens.
Rotation: Rotate crops annually to maintain soil health.
