Companion planting is more than just putting plants next to each other — it’s a simple, natural way to boost yields, deter pests, and promote healthier crops. And it’s one of the easiest ways to make your polytunnel or garden work harder without using chemicals or expensive inputs.
Whether you’re after a clear companion plant chart, seasonal tips, or ready to dive into the science behind companion growing, this guide brings everything together in one place.
🌱 What Is Companion Planting?
Companion planting is the practice of growing certain plants together for mutual benefit — like improving flavour, repelling pests, attracting pollinators, or maximising space.
Examples include:
- Onions and carrots – protect each other from pests like carrot fly
- Lettuce and radishes – staggered harvests with no space wasted
- Tomatoes and basil – improve flavour and attract beneficial insects
These natural pairings are ideal for polytunnel growing, where space is tight and plant health really matters.
Companion Growing in a Polytunnel
One of the best places to practise companion planting is inside a polytunnel.
Why? Because:
- You can control spacing more precisely
- Pest pressure is reduced – and companions boost this effect
- It’s easier to group plants by light and moisture needs
- You can sow quick-growing crops (like lettuce or herbs) between slower ones
If you’re planning out your first tunnel or expanding your setup, take a look at our EasyBuild Polytunnel – strong enough for year-round growing, and flexible enough for multi-crop layouts.
Companion Planting Examples (with Links)
We’re building out a growing library of guides for different crops. Start exploring:
- Companion Planting for Onions
Perfect pairings: carrots, lettuce, beetroot. Avoid: peas, beans.
Coming soon:
- Companion Planting for Tomatoes
- Best Herbs for Companion Planting
- Polytunnel Layouts Using Companion Principles
Companion Planting as an Ecological Practice
Companion planting sits at the heart of many ecological and permaculture-based approaches to food growing. It encourages biodiversity, reduces the need for sprays, and supports soil health.
It’s also a key part of community-led growing projects like Jamie Walton’s Nettles & Petals Garden — a brilliant example of how traditional wisdom and modern growing systems can work hand-in-hand.
Final Thoughts
Companion planting is simple, sustainable, and powerful – and it’s something every grower can start doing, even in a small space.
Whether you’re working with a raised bed or a full-size tunnel, companion growing helps you get more from your space with less fuss.
Looking to get started?
👉 Build your own polytunnel now using our EasyBuild Configurator
👉 Read our blog for more tips
