The Art of Arugula Companion Planting: 15 Best Companions -Maximizing Your Garden’s Potential

Hello there, fellow garden enthusiasts! In this post, we’re diving deep into the wonderful world of arugula companion planting. If you’re looking to elevate your gardening game and make the most of your garden space, you’re in the right place. Arugula, with its peppery flavor and vibrant green leaves, is a versatile and delicious addition to any garden. But did you know that it can also benefit from some well-chosen garden companions? In this guide, we’ll explore the fascinating world of arugula companion planting, uncovering the secrets to healthier plants, better yields, and a more vibrant garden overall.

Understanding Arugula: A Quick Overview

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of companion planting, let’s take a moment to get to know our star player a little better. Arugula, also known as rocket or roquette, is a cool-season, fast-growing leafy green that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It’s prized for its peppery, slightly spicy flavor and tender leaves, making it a popular choice for salads, sandwiches, and garnishes.

Arugula is relatively easy to grow, but it does have its quirks. It prefers cool weather, so it thrives in spring and fall. When the temperature climbs too high, arugula can turn bitter and bolt (go to seed) prematurely. That’s why it’s essential to choose suitable companion plants that can help create the ideal microclimate for your arugula.

Arugula Plant

The Art of Companion Planting

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves strategically planting different species of plants near each other to achieve various benefits. These benefits include pest control, improved soil fertility, and enhanced flavor and growth for neighboring plants. In the case of arugula, selecting the right companions can mean the difference between a robust harvest and a frustrating gardening season.

Benefits of Arugula Companion Planting

1. Pest Control: One of the primary advantages of companion planting is natural pest control. By selecting companions that deter or confuse common garden pests, you can reduce the need for chemical interventions and promote a healthier garden ecosystem.
2. Improved Soil Health: Many companion plants contribute to improved soil fertility by fixing nitrogen or increasing organic matter. These soil improvements benefit not only arugula but also other vegetables in your garden.
3. Space Optimization: Companion planting allows you to make the most of your garden space. By carefully choosing plants that grow well together, you can increase your yield and create a more visually appealing garden.
4. Disease Resistance: Some companions have natural disease-resistant properties that can help protect arugula from common garden diseases, such as downy mildew and powdery mildew.

Now that we’ve covered the benefits let’s delve into some specific companion plants that can work wonders for your arugula.

Arugula Companion Planting: A Winning Team

1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)*

Basil and arugula are not just a match made in the kitchen; they’re also great garden companions. Basil’s strong scent can help deter aphids and flies that might otherwise trouble your arugula. Plus, these two herbs share similar water and sunlight needs, making them ideal neighbors.

To create a harmonious partnership between your arugula and basil, simply interplant them. You can sow basil seeds directly in the ground between rows of arugula, or you can transplant young basil plants.

2. Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)

Nasturtiums are like the garden’s bodyguards, providing protection not just for arugula but for various vegetables. Their bright, colorful flowers and leaves can serve as a decoy, attracting pests away from your arugula. They’re particularly effective against aphids, whiteflies, and cabbage moths.

Plant nasturtiums around the perimeter of your arugula patch or intersperse them among your arugula rows. These beautiful flowers not only keep pests at bay but also add a dash of color to your garden.

3. Marigold (Tagetes spp.)

Marigolds are often referred to as the “workhorses” of companion planting. Their strong scent deters nematodes, aphids, and other insects, helping protect arugula and its neighboring plants. Marigolds also improve soil quality by suppressing weeds and releasing compounds that inhibit the growth of harmful soil nematodes.

Plant marigolds around the edges of your arugula bed or between rows. The vibrant orange and yellow blossoms will brighten up your garden while providing essential pest control.

4. Radishes (Raphanus sativus)

Radishes are not just delicious in salads; they also make excellent companions for arugula. These quick-growing root vegetables help break up compacted soil with their strong root system, making it easier for arugula’s shallow roots to access nutrients and water.

Interplant radishes with arugula by sowing the seeds together. As the radishes mature and are harvested, they create more space for your arugula to spread its leaves.

5. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

Lettuce and arugula are like the dynamic duo of salad greens. They share similar growth habits and moisture requirements, making them ideal bedfellows in your garden. Interplanting them allows you to maximize your garden space while enjoying a diverse range of greens.

Plant lettuce and arugula in alternating rows or create attractive mixed beds with both varieties. This not only looks visually appealing but also makes it easier to harvest a variety of greens for your salads.

6. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)

Cilantro and arugula share a similar growth pattern and water needs, making them compatible companions. Cilantro’s scent can confuse aphids and other pests, providing added protection for your arugula.

Interplant cilantro with arugula by sowing the seeds together. As both plants grow, you can harvest cilantro leaves for culinary use while enjoying the benefits of this natural pest deterrent.

7. Dill (Anethum graveolens)

Dill is not just for pickles; it’s also a fantastic companion for arugula. Its feathery foliage attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and parasitoid wasps, which help control garden pests. Additionally, dill and arugula both thrive in well-drained soil and sunny locations.

Plant dill near your arugula patch to attract these helpful insects and enhance the overall health of your garden.

8. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Chives are like the garden’s secret weapon against aphids and other pests. Their strong scent can deter these tiny invaders, protecting not only your arugula but your entire garden. Chives are also known for their ability to improve soil health.

Plant chives near your arugula rows or in containers next to your arugula pots. This strategic placement will keep aphids at bay and enhance the flavor of your arugula.

9. Beets (Beta vulgaris)

Beets are like the friendly neighbors that bring out the best in your arugula. These root vegetables are excellent companions because they have shallow roots that won’t compete with arugula’s root system. Beets also help improve soil texture and provide some shade to arugula during hot summer days. Plus, you get the bonus of delicious beetroots to harvest!

Interplant beets with arugula by sowing the seeds together or create separate rows, alternating between the two. This way, you’ll enjoy a mix of earthy beets and peppery arugula in your salads.

10. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

Spinach and arugula share similar growing conditions and nutrient requirements, making them excellent companions. They both enjoy cooler weather, so they thrive in the same season. Plus, when interplanted, they create a visually appealing mix of textures and flavors for your salads.

Arrange your spinach and arugula in alternating rows or mixed beds for a diverse and tasty harvest. These leafy greens work together like a charm in both the garden and the kitchen.

11. Carrots (Daucus carota)

Carrots are known for their ability to improve soil structure and create channels for water and air to penetrate deep into the ground. This benefits arugula by enhancing root health and overall growth. Carrots are also a low-maintenance crop that pairs well with the relatively fuss-free arugula.

Plant carrots alongside your arugula, either in separate rows or interspersed within the same bed. As you harvest carrots, you’ll create more space for your arugula to flourish.

12. Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris)

Swiss chard is not just a nutritional powerhouse; it’s also an excellent companion for arugula. These leafy greens share similar growth requirements and make for a visually stunning combination in the garden. Swiss chard’s large, colorful leaves can provide some shade for arugula during hot summer days.

Interplant Swiss chard with arugula in rows or create mixed beds for an eye-catching display of greens. You’ll have a diverse array of leafy vegetables to enjoy throughout the season.

13. Onions (Allium cepa)

Onions are like the garden’s aromatic guardians. Their strong smell can confuse and deter pests that might otherwise bother your arugula. Plus, they’re space-efficient companions that don’t take up much room, allowing you to maximize your garden’s potential.

Plant onions around your arugula patch, either in rows or as a border. This strategic placement will help protect your arugula while providing you with fresh onions for culinary use.

14. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Oregano is more than just a delicious herb; it’s also a formidable companion for arugula. Its aromatic foliage can repel many common garden pests, including aphids and cabbage moths. Oregano’s spreading growth habit can provide ground cover, helping to suppress weeds around your arugula.

Plant oregano near your arugula or in containers alongside your arugula pots. This aromatic herb not only enhances pest control but also adds flavor to your kitchen creations.

15. Borage (Borago officinalis)

Borage is like the “happy-go-lucky” friend in your garden. Its beautiful blue flowers not only attract pollinators but also deter pests like tomato hornworms and cabbage worms. Borage’s deep roots can help improve soil structure, benefiting arugula and other nearby plants.

Plant borage near your arugula, either as a border or interspersed between rows. You’ll enjoy the sight of buzzing bees and butterflies while your arugula thrives.

Table 1: Arugula Companion Planting

These tables can be used in your blog post as visual aids to summarize the companion planting recommendations and what not to plant with arugula. Infographics or charts/graphs can also be created to illustrate the benefits of companion planting, the advantages of specific pairings, and common mistakes to avoid in a visually engaging way. Incorporating such visual elements will enhance the overall appeal and usefulness of your blog post on arugula companion planting.

Infographic: Arugula Companion Planting – Success Rates of Companions

This chart provides a visual representation of the success rates of different arugula companion pairings, helping you make informed decisions in your garden planning. The chart illustrates the success rates of different arugula companion pairings based on two factors: Pest Control Effectiveness and Growth Enhancement. We have used a 5-star rating system (1 star being the lowest and 5 stars being the highest) for each companion plant. Here is a breakdown of the rating system:

• 1 Star: Low Success
• 2 Stars: Moderate Success
• 3 Stars: Neutral
• 4 Stars: High Success
• 5 Stars: Very High Success

Infographic: Companion Success Rates Chart

Experiment and Enjoy Your Garden

Remember, companion planting is not an exact science, and gardening often involves a bit of trial and error. Feel free to mix and match these companion plants based on your preferences and local conditions. The key is to create a garden ecosystem that’s not only productive but also enjoyable to tend.

As you explore the world of arugula companion planting, you’ll discover exciting combinations, flavors, and textures that enhance your gardening experience and your culinary creations. So, let your imagination bloom along with your garden, and don’t forget to savor the fruits (and greens) of your labor.

Arugula Companion Planting: What Not to Plant with Arugula

Just as there are plants that make excellent companions for arugula, there are also some that are best kept at a distance. Let’s chat about what not to plant with arugula to help you avoid potential pitfalls in your garden.

1. Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)

Beans, particularly pole beans and bush beans, are not the best bedfellows for arugula. While arugula prefers full sun to partial shade, beans thrive in full sun. The shade cast by tall bean plants can hinder the growth of arugula, leading to leggy and less productive greens. Additionally, beans and arugula both have a preference for well-drained soil, which can lead to competition for nutrients and water.

To avoid this clash, keep your bean plants in a separate area of the garden where they can bask in full sun without casting shade on your arugula.

2. Cabbage Family (Brassicaceae)

Here’s a case of “frenemies” in the garden. While arugula is a member of the Brassicaceae family, planting it too close to other members of this family, such as cabbage, broccoli, or cauliflower, can invite trouble. These related plants share common pests, including cabbage worms and aphids. Planting them together can create a buffet for these garden invaders.

To prevent pest infestations, give arugula and other Brassicaceae crops some distance in the garden. If you must plant them together, consider using row covers or companion plants like nasturtiums or marigolds to deter pests.

3. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel is a lovely herb known for its feathery foliage and distinctive licorice-like flavor. However, it’s not the best companion for arugula. Fennel has a tendency to spread and can be somewhat allelopathic, releasing chemicals into the soil that inhibit the growth of nearby plants. This can lead to stunted arugula and an overall less productive garden bed.

If you want to grow fennel, place it in a separate area of your garden to avoid hindering the growth of your arugula and other neighboring plants.

4. Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum)

Potatoes and arugula have different water and soil requirements, which can make them less than ideal companions. Potatoes prefer slightly acidic soil and consistent moisture, while arugula thrives in well-drained soil with moderate watering. Planting them together can lead to either waterlogged or dry soil conditions, neither of which is beneficial for both crops.

To avoid this mismatch, consider planting potatoes in a different part of your garden where you can tailor the soil conditions to their liking.

5. Strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa)

Strawberries and arugula might sound like a sweet combination, but they can lead to issues. Strawberries tend to spread and can quickly take over garden beds. Their sprawling growth habit can overshadow and crowd out arugula, depriving it of essential sunlight and space.

If you want both strawberries and arugula in your garden, consider planting them in separate areas or using raised beds to keep them contained.

6. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)

While sunflowers are undoubtedly stunning in the garden, their towering height and large leaves can cast a significant shadow over nearby plants, including arugula. Arugula requires a good amount of sunlight for healthy growth, and planting it too close to sunflowers can result in reduced yields and leggy, stretched-out greens.

If you’re determined to have sunflowers in your garden, give them their dedicated space where they can reach for the sun without obstructing your arugula’s growth.

7. Mint (Mentha spp.)

Mint, with its aromatic leaves and rapid spreading habit, can quickly become invasive and outcompete arugula for resources. Additionally, mint’s aggressive growth can make it challenging to control in a garden bed, potentially suffocating arugula and other neighboring plants.

To keep mint from taking over, it’s best to plant it in containers or in a designated area away from your arugula patch.

In the world of gardening, not all plants make great companions, and it’s essential to consider the unique needs and growth habits of each species. By avoiding these problematic pairings and strategically planning your garden layout, you can create a harmonious and thriving garden where arugula and its companions can flourish.

Table 2: Plants to Avoid Pairing with Arugula

Benefits of Arugula Companion Planting

Arugula isn’t just a fantastic vegetable for your salads; it can also be an excellent companion plant in your garden. In this section, let’s explore the benefits that arugula offers as a companion plant for other garden vegetables, herbs, and flowers.

1. Natural Pest Control

Arugula’s peppery aroma and taste can act as a natural pest repellent for some common garden invaders. When planted alongside other vegetables, arugula can help deter pests like aphids, flea beetles, and whiteflies. These tiny but troublesome creatures often find the scent of arugula unappealing, making your garden a less attractive buffet.

2. Beneficial Insects Attraction

Arugula’s delicate flowers can attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and parasitoid wasps. These helpful bugs are natural predators of garden pests like aphids and caterpillars. By providing a habitat and food source for these allies, arugula contributes to a more balanced and pest-resistant garden ecosystem.

3. Shade and Microclimate Creation

Arugula’s lush foliage can create a canopy that offers shade to neighboring plants. This is especially beneficial for cool-season crops or young seedlings that might appreciate some protection from the sun’s intense rays. Arugula’s shade can help maintain a more stable microclimate, reducing soil temperature fluctuations and moisture loss.

4. Soil Health Enhancement

Arugula belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes other cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower. These plants share a unique ability to improve soil health by releasing compounds that suppress certain soil-borne diseases and pests. When rotated or interplanted with other Brassicaceae members, arugula contributes to healthier, disease-resistant soil.

5. Diverse Crop Rotation Options

Crop rotation is a vital practice for preventing soil depletion and disease buildup. Arugula’s short growing season and compatibility with various garden vegetables make it an excellent choice for crop rotation. You can easily slot arugula into your garden rotation plan to ensure the ongoing health of your soil.

6. Nitrogen Fixation (for Legumes)

Arugula, like other members of the legume family, has the unique ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere into the soil. This can be especially advantageous when grown near nitrogen-hungry plants like beans or peas. Arugula’s roots host nitrogen-fixing bacteria that enrich the soil with this essential nutrient, benefiting the entire garden.

7. Visual Appeal and Biodiversity

Lastly, let’s not forget the aesthetic appeal and biodiversity arugula brings to your garden. Its vibrant green leaves and delicate white flowers can add beauty to your garden landscape. Additionally, by diversifying your plantings with arugula, you create a more biodiverse and resilient ecosystem that can better withstand environmental challenges.

So, the next time you’re planning your garden layout, consider including arugula as a companion plant. Its pest-repelling properties, ability to attract beneficial insects, and contributions to soil health can make it a valuable addition to your gardening toolkit. Plus, you’ll have a fresh supply of arugula for your kitchen creations.

Infographic: Arugula Companion Planting Benefits

This bar chart will provides a visual representation of how arugula contributes to different aspects of companion planting in the garden. The X-axis states the benefits, whereas the Y-axis states the impact scale from 1 to 5, with 1 representing a low impact and 5 representing a high impact for each benefit. Here is a breakdown of the benefits scale:

• 1: Low Impact
• 2: Moderate Impact
• 3: Neutral
• 4: High Impact
• 5: Very High Impact

Infographic: Arugula Companion Planting Benefits

Creating the Perfect Arugula Companion Planting Layout

Now that we’ve covered the benefits of arugula companion planting, let’s talk about how to design your garden layout for maximum benefit. Here are some tips for creating the perfect arugula companion planting layout:

1. Plan Your Rows or Beds Carefully

Consider the growth habits and space requirements of your chosen companions. Arrange your arugula and companion plants in rows or beds, making sure there’s enough space for each species to thrive without overcrowding.

2. Interplant or Rotate

Interplanting involves mixing different plant species in the same row or bed. This can confuse pests and create a visually appealing garden. Alternatively, you can rotate your crops each season to avoid soil depletion and disease buildup.

3. Be Aware of Sun and Water Requirements

Match companion plants with similar sunlight and water requirements to ensure they all thrive together. Arugula, for example, prefers full sun to partial shade, so choose companions that share this preference.

4. Keep Records

Maintain a garden journal to record your companion planting experiments. Note which combinations worked well and which didn’t, so you can refine your approach in future seasons.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While arugula companion planting offers numerous benefits, there are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure a successful garden:

Overcrowding: Planting too densely can lead to competition for resources and increased pest problems. Give your arugula and its companions enough space to grow.

Ignoring Soil Health: Companion planting is most effective in healthy soil. Prioritize soil amendments and organic matter to create a thriving garden environment.

Neglecting Maintenance: Even with companions, your garden still requires care. Regular weeding, watering, and pest monitoring are essential for a bountiful harvest.

Not Rotating Crops: Repeating the same crop in the same location year after year can deplete the soil and increase the risk of disease. Implement crop rotation to preserve soil health.

Final Thoughts

Arugula companion planting is a fantastic way to enhance the health and productivity of your garden. By selecting the right companions and carefully planning your garden layout, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious arugula while minimizing pest problems and improving soil quality. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, incorporating companion planting techniques into your garden can take your green thumb to the next level. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools, and start creating a thriving arugula garden with the perfect companions by your side. Also, if you require any more information on arugula, refer to this link. Happy gardening!

Frequently Asked Questions: Arugula Companion Planting

1. Can I plant arugula with tomatoes or peppers?

Answer: While arugula can be compatible with many plants, tomatoes and peppers might not be the best companions. These warm-season vegetables have different growth requirements and may overshadow or compete with arugula, affecting its growth. It’s generally recommended to avoid planting arugula with tomatoes or peppers and instead opt for companions with similar needs.

2. Can I grow arugula indoors in containers?

Answer: Yes, you can successfully grow arugula in containers indoors. Choose a sunny spot, like a south-facing window, and use well-draining potting soil. Ensure the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and consider using a grow light if natural sunlight is limited. Container gardening allows you to enjoy fresh arugula year-round.

3. Are there any arugula varieties that are better for companion planting?

Answer: Arugula varieties like ‘Astro’ and ‘Sylvetta’ are often recommended for companion planting due to their compact growth habit. These varieties can be interplanted more easily among other garden vegetables and herbs without taking up excessive space.

4. Can I use arugula as a cover crop in my garden?

Answer: Yes, arugula can be used as a cover crop. It’s a quick-growing plant that can help suppress weeds, improve soil health, and provide a protective cover during the offseason. To use arugula as a cover crop, sow seeds densely in the area you want to cover and then cut and turn it into the soil before it flowers and goes to seed.

5. How do I prevent arugula from bolting too soon?

Answer: Arugula has a tendency to bolt (produce flowers and seeds) in hot weather. To prevent premature bolting, plant arugula in the cooler seasons of spring and fall. Provide consistent moisture and partial shade during hot summer months. Harvest regularly by cutting the outer leaves, which can help delay bolting.

6. Can arugula be used as a trap crop for pests?

Answer: Arugula’s peppery scent can deter certain pests like aphids, making it a potential trap crop. However, it might not work as effectively as other trap crops like nasturtiums or radishes. Consider using arugula alongside these plants to create a more effective pest management strategy.

7. Is it possible to save arugula seeds for future planting?

Answer: Yes, arugula seeds can be saved for future planting. Allow the plants to flower and produce seeds, then collect the dry seed pods. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Properly stored arugula seeds can remain viable for several years.

8. Can I companion plant arugula with fruit trees?

Answer: Companion planting arugula with fruit trees can be challenging due to differences in light and moisture requirements. However, you can plant arugula as an understory crop between young fruit trees to make the most of available space and provide temporary shade for the arugula during the trees’ early growth stages.

9. Can I use arugula as a green mulch in my garden?

Answer: Arugula can be used as a green mulch, especially when you need to protect the soil from erosion and weed growth. Plant arugula densely and cut it down before it flowers. Lay the cut arugula leaves as mulch around other plants, providing a protective layer while also decomposing and enriching the soil.

10. Are there any common arugula pests or diseases I should be aware of?

Answer: Arugula can be susceptible to pests like flea beetles and aphids, especially when young. Keep an eye out for these pests and use natural or organic control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap. Arugula can also be affected by fungal diseases in humid conditions, so ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.