Potatoes Companion Plants
Companion planting for potatoes is often used to fill bed edges, attract insects and make a diverse plot rather than as a substitute for crop rotation. Claims about pest deterrence are not consistently proven. The soundest approach is to rotate potatoes, check regularly for blight and avoid crowding plants with equally demanding neighbours.
Good companions for Potatoes
| Plant | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| French marigolds | French marigolds are traditionally planted along potato edges for their flowers and to diversify a largely leafy crop. |
| Borage | Borage can bring pollinating insects to the wider plot, provided its size does not shade potato rows. |
| Horseradish | Some gardeners traditionally grow horseradish at a potato-bed corner, although evidence for a protective effect is limited. |
| Broad beans | Broad beans can occupy an adjacent early-season area, provided they do not block light or access for earthing up. |
| Pot marigolds | Pot marigolds flower over a long period and may encourage a greater variety of insects around the plot. |
| Nasturtiums | Nasturtiums at the bed edge are traditionally used as a possible aphid distraction, with no guaranteed outcome. |
Keep Potatoes away from
| Plant | Why to separate them |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | Tomatoes and potatoes share susceptibility to blight, so separation helps reduce confusion when symptoms appear. |
| Courgettes | Courgettes spread widely and may make it difficult to earth up, inspect and harvest potatoes. |
| Cucumbers | Cucumbers need regular watering and shelter, while potato foliage can crowd them in a confined plot. |
Tips
Use a different bed from last year where possible, earth up potatoes as stems grow, and leave paths clear for inspecting foliage. Keep tomato plants well apart from the potato plot. Edge companions should not obstruct watering or lifting. Once leaves meet across rows, remove any low plants that are trapped in shade or harbour slugs.
Potatoes companion planting: frequently asked questions
What are good companion plants for potatoes?
Good companions for potatoes include French marigolds, Borage, Horseradish, Broad beans, Pot marigolds, Nasturtiums.
What should you not plant near potatoes?
Keep potatoes away from Tomatoes, Courgettes, Cucumbers.
How does companion planting help potatoes?
Companion planting for potatoes is often used to fill bed edges, attract insects and make a diverse plot rather than as a substitute for crop rotation.
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Companion planting is a traditional practice; results vary with your climate, soil and garden. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.