Kale is one of my favorite vegetables to grow. It’s not every day that you can grow a superfood so easily at home! Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It has a slightly bitter flavor and is commonly used in salads, sautéed dishes, and soups. Kale is a great source of fiber, iron, and calcium, and is an excellent addition to any healthy diet. It can also be cooked and added to casseroles, quiches, and other dishes for an extra dose of nutrition. When growing a garden, remember that there are a number of companion plants for kale, including herbs, flowers, and vegetables!
The best companion plants for kale
Kale is a great plant to have in a garden, and it pairs well with many companion plants. Kale grows best when planted next to other leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and Swiss chard, which can help provide added nutrients to the soil. Other beneficial companion plants for kale include radishes, beets, onions, and garlic, which can add flavor and texture to the garden. Kale also grows well with pole beans and peas, which are nitrogen-fixing plants that help nourish the soil, and alongside flowers like nasturtiums and calendula, which attract beneficial insects and help deter pests.
The best companion vegetables for kale
Kale can be planted with a variety of other vegetables, including radishes, onions, artichokes, and spinach. Planting kale in the same bed with these other vegetables can help maximize the amount of space used in the garden. Kale can also be planted with other leafy greens such as lettuce, arugula, and collard greens. Kale is a hardy plant that is not bothered by many pests, and it can grow prolifically throughout the season.
Artichokes
An artichoke plant is an herbaceous perennial that produces large edible heads, or flower buds. It belongs to the thistle family and grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. Artichokes can be grown in zones 7-11, with the optimal temperatures ranging from 50°F-85°F. The plants typically reach full maturity in 2-3 years, and can reach a height of 4-5 ft. and a width of 2 ft. The most common variety of artichokes is the ‘Green Globe’, which has a light green color and a slightly spiny exterior. When planting as a companion plant for kale, provide a little extra space, as artichokes can grow to be quite a bit larger than kale.
Beets
A beet plant is a cool-season vegetable that is a member of the Chenopodiaceae family and grows well as a companion plant for kale. It is a hardy annual that grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 2 through 11. It has a deep taproot and dark green, glossy leaves that form a rosette. The plant’s leaves can be eaten as a salad green or cooked like spinach. The edible taproot is typically the part of the plant that is eaten. Beets can be harvested in as few as 50 days and prefer full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
Celery
Celery is a popular vegetable that is easy to grow and harvest. To get started, you’ll need a plot of land with good soil, plenty of sun, and good drainage. Plant your celery in the early spring, spaced approximately 12 inches apart. Water frequently, as celery prefers moist soil. Once the celery stalks reach a foot in length, you can start to harvest them. You can either harvest the whole stalk or just the outer stalks. When the stalks reach their full size, they can be harvested by pulling the entire plant from the ground. For the best flavor, harvest in the morning before the sun gets too intense.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a great companion crop for kale in the garden. It can help repel pests, like slugs and aphids, from attacking the kale. Cilantro also helps to improve soil fertility as it produces nitrogen-rich leaves that can be used to feed the soil. The two plants also provide a great balance of flavor when eaten together. Cilantro has a strong, pungent flavor that contrasts nicely with the milder taste of kale. Growing cilantro alongside kale can help to make the garden more diverse and productive, while also providing a delicious flavor combination.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are a great companion crop for kale, especially when planted along a fence the cucumbers can grow up. They provide beneficial shade for the kale, which helps keep the soil cool and moist. Cucumbers also help to improve the soil structure and reduce the amount of pests that kale can attract by creating a barrier with its foliage. The deep green foliage of the cucumber also adds a lovely contrast to the grey-green foliage of the kale. They are also a great companion crop for kale as they can help to increase the yield of the kale plants
Lettuce
Lettuce is another good option as a companion plant for kale. It is an easy-to-grow, cool-season crop that matures quickly and grows well early in the year alongside kale. Lettuce grows well in the same conditions as kale, and it provides a nice ground cover to protect the soil from weeds and retain moisture. Planting lettuce near kale also helps to attract beneficial insects and pollinators to the garden. Lettuce has fewer pest and disease problems than kale, and its shallow roots help to loosen the soil and promote healthy growth of the kale. It’s a great way to get the most out of your garden space and have a diverse range of vegetables to enjoy.
Onion
Another of my favorite companion crops for kale is onions. Onions are rich in sulfur, a mineral that helps kale to absorb nitrogen and other essential nutrients from the soil. Onions also help to repel certain pests that may attack kale plants, such as aphids, cabbage maggots, and flea beetles. Additionally, onions have antifungal properties that help to keep kale plants healthy and prevent the spread of disease. Planting onions alongside kale also helps to keep the soil moist and reduce the risk of wilting. All in all, onions are an excellent companion crop for kale and can help to ensure a successful harvest.
Peas
Peas are a legume that helps to increase soil fertility, and their nitrogen-fixing properties can help to boost nutrient levels in the soil. In addition, peas provide a good source of organic matter for soil health. Peas also provide a good source of food for beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help to control pests in the garden and protect kale plants. Peas also provide some shade for kale plants, and the two crops can be planted in close proximity to maximize garden space. When planted together, kale and peas can be a winning combination for a successful and abundant garden.
Potatoes
Potatoes and kale make for a great companion crop. Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates, which can help provide energy to the body. They are also high in vitamin C and potassium, making them a great addition to any meal. Kale, on the other hand, is an excellent source of dietary fiber, iron, calcium, and vitamin A. Both crops are also great sources of antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of various diseases. Planting potatoes and kale together can create a more diverse and nutrient-rich environment for all plants growing in the garden. Plus, the two crops can benefit each other in terms of weed control and pest management.
Radishes
Radishes are fast-growing and easy to manage. Both are cold hardy plants Radishes help to attract beneficial insects away from the kale and also help to aerate the soil for better water drainage and nutrient uptake. Radishes are a great way to add a bit of color and crunch to a kale dish, and they can even be used as a garnish or chopped up and added fresh to salads. Radishes also help to break up compacted soil, which allows more oxygen and water to reach the kale roots, leading to a healthier plant.
Spinach
Spinach and kale go together and grow together, like bread and butter. Both are cool-season crops that grow well in the same conditions, making them ideal companion crops to grow together. Spinach can also benefit kale by providing shade and keeping the soil moist. The two crops can be planted together and harvested at the same time, maximizing the harvest and providing a variety of flavors and textures for salads and side dishes. Spinach also provides an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious addition to any diet.
The best companion herbs for kale
Kale is an incredibly versatile vegetable that is easy to grow and has a variety of companion plants that can be planted in the garden to help the kale plants thrive. Some great companion plants for kale include garlic, basil, and mint. These companion plants help to protect the kale from pests and improve the quality of the soil. Additionally, they provide additional nutrients and support the growth of the kale plants. Growing kale with companion plants is a great way to ensure a healthy, high-yielding crop of kale.
Garlic
Is garlic a good companion plant for kale? The answer is a resounding yes! Garlic helps to deter pests, improve the flavor of the kale, boost its beneficial properties, and increase the yield of the crop. So, if you’re looking for a companion plant to help improve the health and productivity of your kale crop, garlic is a great choice.
Basil
Basil is a great companion plant for kale. Like garlic, basil will help to repel pests such as aphids, cabbage loopers, and flea beetles. Basil also helps to improve the flavor of the kale and can help to increase the yield of the crop. Basil also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. Basil can also attract beneficial insects that help to pollinate the kale, increasing the yield of the crop.
Dill
Dill helps to repel pests such as aphids, cabbage loopers, and flea beetles. The strong scent of dill also masks the scent of the kale, making it harder for pests to find the kale. Dill also helps to improve the flavor of the kale, making it more enjoyable to eat. Dill also helps to attract beneficial insects that help to pollinate the kale, helping to increase the yield of the crop.
Chamomile
Chamomile is an excellent companion plant for kale, as it helps to improve the flavor and growth of kale. The essential oils of chamomile contain compounds that have anti-fungal properties, which can help to protect kale from diseases such as downy mildew and black rot. Additionally, chamomile has a strong scent that can help to repel certain pests, such as cabbage worms and aphids, that may otherwise feed on your kale. As a bonus, chamomile is a good source of nitrogen and other nutrients, which can help to promote healthy growth of kale. Planting chamomile near kale can also help to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, that may feed on pests. Finally, chamomile can be used in companion planting to provide shade for kale and help keep it cool during hot days.
Mint
Mint is another plant that grows well as a companion for kale. Kale and mint produce different essential oils, which helps improve the flavor of both plants. However, it is important to note that mint can be an aggressive grower and can take over a garden if not properly managed. Therefore, it is recommended to grow mint in a pot or in an area that is isolated from other plants. Additionally, it is important to regularly prune and contain the mint, as this will help prevent it from taking over the garden.
Rosemary
Rosemary is an excellent companion plant for kale, as it can help deter certain pests that are common among kale plants.Rosemary is also a great source of bee-attracting flowers, which can help pollinate your kale if you intend to collect kale seeds. So, while it’s important to keep an eye on your rosemary, it can be a great addition to your kale patch!
Sage
Sage offers a number of benefits when planted next to kale. Kale is a heavy feeder and requires a lot of nitrogen, but sage helps to break up the soil, releasing nitrogen and other nutrients, making them more available to the kale. Sage is also a good insect repellent and can help protect kale from pests. Additionally, sage helps to attract pollinators, which can help to increase the yield of kale. Sage adds flavor and aroma to the garden, and its grey-green foliage provides an attractive contrast to the deep green of the kale. Finally, sage helps to keep weeds away from the kale, preventing them from competing for resources. Sage is an ideal companion plant for kale, providing a number of benefits to the crop.
Thyme
Yes, even low-growing and spreading thyme is a great companion plant for kale. Thyme is said to help to repel pests like cabbage worms that harm kale plants and can also help to improve the flavor of kale.
The best companion flowers for kale
Kale is a versatile brassica vegetable that is both easy to grow and full of flavor. To maximize the beauty and productivity of your kale garden, consider planting companion flowers alongside your kale. Not only do companion flowers bring visual interest to the garden, but they can also help to attract beneficial insects, such as pollinators, that can help your kale plants produce better. Popular companion flowers for kale include marigolds, nasturtiums, and calendulas. These flowers come in a variety of colors and provide a wide range of pollinator attractions. Not only will the presence of companion flowers make your kale garden look more attractive, but the flowers can also help to naturally protect and enrich your kale in ways that would otherwise require chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Calendula
Calendula is an herbaceous plant that has long been used for its medicinal properties. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but it is now grown in many parts of the world. The flowers of the Calendula plant have a bright yellow-orange color and are often used in teas and salads. Calendula has many healing properties, including anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antifungal properties. It also contains antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of cancer and other health problems. It can be used topically as an ointment to treat cuts, scrapes, and burns. It can also be taken internally as a tea or tincture to help treat stomach issues and boost the immune system. It may also deter pests from bothering your kale plants!
Hyssop
Yes, hyssop is a great companion plant for kale. Hyssop helps to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, which can help to control pests such as aphids, which can sometimes attack kale plants. Hyssop also improves soil fertility and its strong aroma can help to repel pests such as cabbage loopers.
Marigolds
Like calendulas, marigolds can be grown as companion flowers for kale. Marigolds repel certain pests, such as cabbage worms, that can be problematic for kale plants. Additionally, they are known to help kale plants absorb other nutrients, such as nitrogen, more efficiently.
Nasturtium
Nasturtiums are an edible flower that come in a variety of colors including yellow, orange, and red. They are a great companion plant for kale because they can repel pests like aphids, whitefly, and cucumber beetles that might otherwise feast on your kale plants. Nasturtiums attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which help to pollinate the kale flowers and set fruit. They also help to naturally fertilize the soil with their nitrogen-fixing roots. In addition, they can be used as a living mulch to keep soil moist and retain nutrients.
