Growing kale is great, but growing it with the right neighbors? Even better. Pro gardeners know that some plants help kale thrive by improving growth, enhancing flavor, and keeping pests away. But others? They’ll steal nutrients, invite trouble, or just make your kale’s life harder.
Here are 29 plants that make the perfect companions for your kale—plus 3 you should definitely keep at a distance. Let’s make your garden a happy, thriving place!
1. Cabbage
In the world of gardening, companions are crucial. Cabbage, a close relative of kale, shares similar growing conditions. This makes them perfect neighbors in your garden plot. Their mutual love for cool weather and rich soil creates a harmonious environment.
Plant cabbage next to kale, and you’ll see them flourish together. The companionship doesn’t just benefit growth; it also aids in pest control. Cabbage can ward off certain insects that might otherwise target your kale, making it a win-win situation for gardeners.
2. Broccoli
Some plants harmonize beautifully when grown together. Broccoli is one such ally for kale. These two cruciferous veggies enjoy similar soil and nutrient needs, making them excellent companions. When planted side by side, they support each other’s growth.
Besides the practical benefits, this pairing can deter pests that typically feast on kale. Planting broccoli with kale not only maximizes space but also enhances garden health and productivity.
3. Beets
Certain roots and leaves work wonders together. Beets are a fantastic companion for kale due to their complementary root and leaf growth. As beets grow downward, they make room for kale’s sprawling leaves. This symbiotic relationship optimizes space and resources.
Additionally, the dense foliage of kale provides shade that helps retain soil moisture for beets. Including beets in your kale patch is an effective way to boost the overall health and yield of your garden. It’s a strategy that’s stood the test of time.
4. Celery
In gardening, sometimes opposites attract. Celery, with its tall stalks, complements the low-growing kale perfectly. This vertical space utilization is not just efficient but also aesthetically pleasing. Celery’s presence next to kale can help deter certain pests, thanks to its strong aroma.
This natural pest repellent is a bonus for your garden. The combination of celery and kale is a classic example of how strategic planting can enhance growth and protect your crops without the need for chemical interventions.
5. Onions
Aromatic plants can be a gardener’s best friend. Onions, with their distinct scent, serve as natural pest deterrents. When grown beside kale, they help keep away bugs that might damage your leafy greens. Onions occupy minimal space, allowing kale to grow freely without competition.
This pairing is both practical and beneficial for the health of your garden. The presence of onions can also enhance the flavor profile of your kale by subtly influencing the soil environment. It’s a partnership worth considering.
6. Garlic
Sometimes the best defense is a strong offense. Garlic, known for its pungent aroma, is an excellent protector of kale. Its ability to repel aphids and other pests makes it a top choice for companion planting. When positioned next to kale, garlic helps maintain a pest-free environment.
Furthermore, the compact growth habit of garlic complements kale’s larger leaves, allowing both to thrive. This dynamic duo creates a healthier, more resilient garden space. Many gardeners swear by this combination for natural pest control.
7. Spinach
When it comes to leafy greens, some thrive best together. Spinach is a wonderful partner for kale as they share similar growing conditions. Each benefits from the other’s presence, leading to robust growth. Spinach’s dense leaves help suppress weeds, providing a cleaner garden bed for kale.
Additionally, this pairing maximizes the use of space and nutrients, making your garden more productive. Seasoned gardeners often plant spinach with kale for a lush, green harvest. It’s a strategy that enhances both yield and garden beauty.
8. Lettuce
Mixing colors and textures can be beneficial. Lettuce, with its various shades and types, pairs beautifully with kale. This combination not only looks good but also optimizes the garden space. Lettuce grows well in the shade of kale’s larger leaves, which can also help conserve moisture.
This coexistence allows both plants to thrive without competing for resources. The complementary growth habits of lettuce and kale make them an ideal pair for gardeners looking to maximize space and harvests.
9. Dill
Herbs can often play supporting roles in a garden. Dill, with its feathery foliage, is a great companion for kale. This aromatic herb not only enhances the flavor of your dishes but also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs. These insects help control pest populations that might otherwise harm kale.
Dill’s growth habit complements kale’s structure, allowing both to flourish. Planting dill near kale is a simple yet effective way to boost garden health and productivity, favored by many experienced gardeners.
10. Marigolds
Flowers aren’t just for show. Marigolds, with their bright blooms, are more than just pretty faces in a garden. When planted near kale, they act as natural pest repellents, deterring nematodes and other harmful insects. Their presence can significantly reduce pest-related damage to your kale.
Additionally, marigolds add a splash of color, making your garden more visually appealing. This functional beauty is why many gardeners choose marigolds as companions for their kale.
11. Nasturtiums
Sometimes, beauty serves a purpose beyond aesthetics. Nasturtiums, known for their striking flowers, are excellent companions for kale. These flowers attract beneficial insects that prey on common garden pests. Additionally, nasturtiums can trap certain pests, drawing them away from your kale.
This dual function makes them invaluable in maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem. The vibrant blooms add a touch of elegance, enhancing the overall appeal of your garden. Nasturtiums are a favorite among gardeners who appreciate both form and function.
12. Chamomile
Calmness in a garden can be cultivated. Chamomile, with its soothing properties, is more than just a tea ingredient. When grown alongside kale, it helps improve the health of nearby plants by enhancing soil quality. Chamomile’s presence can lead to more robust kale growth.
Additionally, its flowers attract beneficial insects, which assist in natural pest control. This harmonious relationship between chamomile and kale is well-regarded among gardeners.
13. Thyme
Sometimes, small additions make a big difference. Thyme, though modest in size, offers significant benefits when planted with kale. Its aromatic properties help deter harmful insects, providing natural pest control.
This herbaceous companion also enhances the flavor profile of kale when used together in cooking. Many gardeners appreciate thyme’s dual role in pest management and culinary enhancement, making it a popular choice for companion planting alongside kale.
14. Borage
In the garden, some plants bring unexpected benefits. Borage, with its starry blue flowers, is a delightful companion for kale. This plant attracts pollinators, which can help boost overall garden productivity.
Borage also functions as a natural pest deterrent, protecting kale from potential insect damage. Its presence can improve the growth and flavor of kale, thanks to its ability to accumulate and redistribute minerals.
15. Radishes
Some root vegetables are more than just crops. Radishes, with their quick growth cycle, are advantageous companions for kale. They can be harvested early, which allows kale more space to expand. Additionally, radishes help break up the soil, improving aeration and drainage for kale’s roots.
This partnership promotes healthier growth for both plants. Seasoned gardeners value the symbiotic relationship between radishes and kale, as it optimizes the use of garden space and resources. It’s a practical strategy for any productive garden.
16. Carrots
Underground allies can be powerful. Carrots, with their deep roots, work well with kale by loosening the soil as they grow. This natural aeration supports the health and growth of kale’s roots. Carrots and kale also make efficient use of available nutrients, leading to a more fruitful harvest.
Their differing growth habits allow them to coexist without competition. Many gardeners appreciate this pairing for its ability to maximize soil use and improve overall garden productivity.
17. Chives
Certain flavors mix well in nature. Chives, with their mild onion-like taste, are excellent neighbors for kale. Their aromatic properties help repel pests, creating a more secure environment for your leafy greens. Chives’ compact growth means they fit neatly beside kale without competing for space.
This partnership enhances the culinary value of your garden, providing fresh ingredients for a variety of dishes.
18. Peas
Vertical growth can benefit all. Peas, with their climbing habit, make efficient use of vertical space, complementing the sprawling nature of kale. As legumes, peas enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen, which benefits kale greatly.
This natural fertilization supports healthier, more vigorous growth. The presence of peas also helps shade the soil, retaining moisture for the surrounding plants. Gardeners value this combination for its space efficiency and soil-enhancing benefits.
19. Basil
Some herbs do more than season. Basil, known for its aromatic leaves, offers significant benefits when planted close to kale. Its presence helps repel harmful insects, safeguarding your garden naturally.
Additionally, basil enhances the flavor of kale when they are used together in culinary creations. This pairing allows both plants to thrive without competing for resources.
20. Swiss Chard
Visual appeal can go hand in hand with function. Swiss chard, with its brightly colored stems, complements kale beautifully. This pairing not only enhances the visual diversity of your garden but also supports healthy growth.
Swiss chard and kale share similar soil and water needs, making them ideal companions. Their complementary growth habits allow both to thrive without overshadowing each other. Experienced gardeners appreciate this combination for its aesthetic and practical benefits, creating a balanced and productive garden environment.
21. Parsley
In the garden, some herbs offer more than flavor. Parsley, with its vibrant green leaves, provides a host of benefits when planted next to kale. It attracts beneficial insects that help control pests naturally. Parsley also enhances soil health, promoting healthier kale growth.
This combination allows for a more productive garden without the need for chemical interventions. Gardeners value parsley for its role in sustainable gardening, making it a popular companion plant for kale.
22. Sage
Subtle scents can have powerful effects. Sage, known for its aromatic leaves, offers natural benefits when grown next to kale. It acts as a deterrent for pests that might otherwise damage your leafy greens.
Sage’s presence also contributes to a healthier garden ecosystem by attracting beneficial insects. This herb’s compact growth makes it an ideal partner for kale, as they thrive without competing for space.
23. Rosemary
Sometimes, resilience is key. Rosemary, with its hardy nature, makes an excellent companion for kale. Its strong scent deters many common garden pests, providing a natural protective barrier. Rosemary’s slow growth and minimal resource needs mean it doesn’t compete with kale for nutrients, allowing both to flourish.
This pairing enhances garden health and reduces the need for chemical pest control. Experienced gardeners often utilize rosemary for its pest-repelling properties and its ability to thrive in diverse conditions.
24. Oregano
Aromatic herbs often play a crucial role. Oregano, with its bold scent, serves as a natural pest deterrent when planted beside kale. Its presence helps reduce damage from insects, allowing kale to grow more vigorously.
Oregano’s low-growing habit makes it an efficient ground cover, conserving soil moisture and minimizing weed growth. This combination is appreciated by gardeners for its practicality and effectiveness.
25. Coriander
In the mix of herbs and greens, some combinations stand out. Coriander, with its lacy leaves, is a beneficial companion for kale. It attracts beneficial insects that prey on common pests, naturally protecting your kale.
This partnership helps maintain a healthy garden ecosystem without chemical interventions. Additionally, the fresh flavor of coriander complements kale in culinary dishes, adding value to your harvest.
26. Lavender
Fragrance can be a powerful ally. Lavender, with its calming aroma, is more than just a pretty face in the garden. When planted near kale, it acts as a natural deterrent for pests, helping to maintain a healthy garden environment.
Lavender’s presence also attracts beneficial pollinators, promoting a thriving ecosystem. This aromatic plant is valued by gardeners for its dual benefits of pest control and garden beautification.
27. Tansy
In the realm of natural pest control, some plants are standouts. Tansy, with its vivid yellow flowers, is known for its ability to repel a variety of garden pests. When planted alongside kale, it provides a layer of protection against insects that might otherwise cause damage.
Tansy’s presence also enhances the biodiversity of your garden, attracting beneficial insects. Gardeners value tansy for its effectiveness in maintaining a robust garden ecosystem.
28. Mint
In the garden, some scents are unmistakably powerful. Mint, with its invigorating aroma, serves as a natural deterrent for pests when grown next to kale. Its rapid growth habit provides excellent ground cover, helping to suppress weeds and conserve moisture.
This partnership is both practical and beneficial for the health of your garden. Mint’s presence enhances the overall environment, making it a popular choice among gardeners who seek to maximize their garden’s productivity and resilience.
29. Tarragon
The subtle influence of herbs can transform a garden. Tarragon, with its aromatic leaves, is a supportive companion for kale. Its scent deters many common garden pests, providing a protective barrier.
Tarragon’s growth habit complements kale, allowing both to thrive without competition. This pairing enhances the flavor profile of your garden, offering fresh ingredients for culinary use.
30. Strawberries – Too Much Competition for Nutrients
Both of these plants love nitrogen, which means they’ll fight for the same resources, leaving one struggling.
Strawberries are the culprit here—they not only hog nutrients but also attract pests like aphids and slugs that love munching on kale leaves. Keep them apart unless you want kale with a side of trouble.
31. Tomatoes – Not the Best Roommates
One of these plants loves soaking up the sun and spreading its roots deep, while the other prefers a bit more breathing room.
Tomatoes are the issue—they demand tons of nutrients and can shade out kale, making it harder for your greens to thrive. They’re just not the best match.
32. Pole Beans – Throws Off the Balance
More nitrogen sounds great, but too much of it can actually mess with growth. Pole beans release nitrogen into the soil, which might sound helpful, but kale prefers a more controlled amount.
Plus, beans grow tall and create shade, blocking kale’s much-needed sunlight. Not exactly the dream duo!