Squash Companion Plants
Winter squash and courgettes are productive when given warmth, moisture and rich soil, but both can occupy far more space than expected. Companion choices are therefore chiefly about fitting short-lived crops and flowers around them. Traditional combinations may support a varied plot, yet evidence for direct pest protection or improved yields remains limited.
Good companions for Squash
| Plant | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Sweetcorn | Trailing squash can cover exposed ground beneath a block of sweetcorn in a UK version of the Three Sisters approach. |
| Climbing French beans | Traditionally planted with sweetcorn and squash, though bean growth should be watched so stems and leaves remain accessible. |
| Radishes | Radishes mature before squash foliage expands, making them a practical temporary crop in freshly planted beds. |
| Borage | Flowering borage adds nectar-rich blooms nearby and is usually easiest placed where it will not shade young squash. |
| French marigolds | These compact flowers can brighten bed edges and add insect habitat without taking much of the squash rooting area. |
| Nasturtiums | They can trail along the outer edge and provide flowers, but should be restrained if they crowd squash seedlings. |
Keep Squash away from
| Plant | Why to separate them |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | Their harvest disrupts soil and their foliage competes with squash for light, water and room in summer. |
| Fennel | Grow fennel apart because it becomes substantial, self-seeds freely and is awkward among sprawling squash stems. |
| Jerusalem artichokes | Tall, dense growth can cast shade over squash and makes it difficult to reach fruits and water roots. |
Tips
Plant out after the last frost into soil improved with well-rotted organic matter. Allow trailing squash at least 1 m of room and give courgettes about 90 cm. Water the soil, not leaves, in dry weather. Pick courgettes regularly while small; cure winter squash somewhere dry before storing.
Squash companion planting: frequently asked questions
What are good companion plants for squash?
Good companions for squash include Sweetcorn, Climbing French beans, Radishes, Borage, French marigolds, Nasturtiums.
What should you not plant near squash?
Keep squash away from Potatoes, Fennel, Jerusalem artichokes.
How does companion planting help squash?
Winter squash and courgettes are productive when given warmth, moisture and rich soil, but both can occupy far more space than expected.
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Companion planting is a traditional practice; results vary with your climate, soil and garden. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.