The Best Companion Planting for Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a beloved vegetable for their earthy flavor and nutritional benefits, but growing them can be a challenge. These hardy crops require attention to detail and the right growing conditions to thrive. Fortunately, one of the best-kept secrets to a bountiful Brussels sprout harvest is companion planting.

In this post today, we’ll explore the benefits of companion planting for Brussels sprouts, the best companions, plants to avoid, and tips to make the most of this gardening technique. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to cultivate a thriving vegetable patch while naturally repelling pests and improving yields.

Why You Should Consider Companion Planting for Brussels Sprouts

Companion planting is the art of growing two or more plant species in close proximity to each other for mutual benefits. This method has been used by gardeners for centuries, enhancing growth, deterring pests, and boosting overall plant health. Companion planting for Brussels sprouts works wonders because it optimizes the plant’s environment, improving nutrient uptake, enhancing flavor, and reducing the likelihood of disease.

Brussels sprouts are particularly susceptible to pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and root maggots. By incorporating companion plants that naturally repel these pests, gardeners can reduce their reliance on chemical pesticides. Furthermore, companion plants can provide shade, improve soil structure, and even add beneficial nutrients that Brussels sprouts crave.

Incorporating companion planting is an eco-friendly approach that benefits the environment, supports biodiversity, and enhances your garden’s overall health. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, understanding companion planting for Brussels sprouts can elevate your gardening game.

Best Companion Plants for Brussels Sprouts

When it comes to companion planting for Brussels sprouts, choosing the right plants is essential for maximizing benefits. Here are some of the best companion plants that will thrive alongside your Brussels sprouts:

Herbs: Sage, Dill, and Thyme
- Sage is a fantastic companion for Brussels sprouts as it helps repel cabbage moths, which are notorious for laying eggs on Brussels sprout leaves. It also has a strong scent that can mask the odor of your Brussels sprouts, making them less attractive to pests.
- Dill attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and parasitic wasps, which prey on pests that target Brussels sprouts. Additionally, dill’s aromatic nature can deter cabbage worms and aphids from attacking your crops.
- Thyme acts as a natural pest deterrent, especially for aphids. It also improves the soil with its deep roots, benefiting Brussels sprouts by breaking up compacted soil and improving drainage.
Nasturtiums Nasturtiums are a classic companion for Brussels sprouts. These vibrant flowers are known for attracting aphids, keeping them away from your Brussels sprouts. They also act as a trap crop for pests like whiteflies and cabbage worms. Nasturtiums can be planted at the edges of your garden to help protect your more vulnerable crops.
Marigolds Marigolds are known for their ability to deter a variety of pests, including aphids, nematodes, and cabbage moths. Their strong fragrance helps repel harmful insects, making them an excellent choice for protecting Brussels sprouts. Planting marigolds near your Brussels sprouts will not only help reduce pests but also add a pop of color to your garden.
Alliums (Garlic, Onions, Leeks) Alliums are some of the best companions for brassicas like Brussels sprouts. Garlic, onions, and leeks naturally repel aphids, cabbage worms, and other pests that commonly target Brussels sprouts. The sulfur compounds in these plants are believed to be the key deterrent. Alliums also improve the flavor of Brussels sprouts by reducing pest damage.
Beans and Peas Brussels sprouts, like many other plants, can benefit from the nitrogen-fixing properties of legumes like beans and peas. These plants enrich the soil with nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for healthy Brussels sprout growth. Planting beans or peas alongside Brussels sprouts will help ensure your soil is nutrient-rich, promoting stronger plants and larger yields.
Radishes Radishes are another great companion for Brussels sprouts. They help break up the soil and improve soil aeration, making it easier for Brussels sprouts to grow. Furthermore, radishes can deter pests like root maggots and aphids, which are common problems for Brussels sprout growers.

Plants to Avoid Planting Near Brussels Sprouts

While companion planting can offer many benefits, it’s equally important to know which plants to avoid growing near Brussels sprouts. Some plants can negatively impact Brussels sprout growth by attracting pests, competing for nutrients, or creating unfavorable growing conditions. Here are a few plants to steer clear of:

Other Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower)
- Brussels sprouts belong to the brassica family, which includes cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. Planting these closely related species together can lead to competition for nutrients and space. Additionally, pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles are attracted to all brassicas, so planting them near Brussels sprouts can increase the risk of infestations.
Tomatoes
- Tomatoes and Brussels sprouts do not make good companions. Tomatoes are known to attract pests like aphids, whiteflies, and hornworms, which can also target Brussels sprouts. The two plants also have different water and nutrient requirements, making them incompatible for companion planting.
Strawberries
- While strawberries are a great plant for many gardens, they are not suitable companions for Brussels sprouts. Strawberries tend to attract slugs and snails, which are also drawn to the tender leaves of Brussels sprouts. Additionally, strawberries are low-growing, and their spread can compete with the space and nutrients needed by Brussels sprouts.
Fennel
- Fennel is a member of the parsley family and can inhibit the growth of nearby plants, including Brussels sprouts. Fennel releases allelopathic chemicals that can stunt the growth of other plants. It is best to keep fennel away from Brussels sprouts to avoid growth issues.

Tips for Growing Companion Plants with Brussels Sprouts

Companion planting requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you successfully grow Brussels sprouts with their best companion plants:

Space Plants Appropriately When planting companion plants alongside Brussels sprouts, ensure there is enough space for both types of plants to grow. Brussels sprouts can become quite large, so give them ample room to develop their heads. Make sure your companion plants are placed in a way that doesn’t overshadow your Brussels sprouts but still offers protection from pests.
Consider Plant Height Some companion plants, like marigolds and nasturtiums, grow low to the ground, while others, like dill and thyme, are taller. Be mindful of the height differences to avoid shading your Brussels sprouts or interfering with airflow, which could create a more favorable environment for pests and disease.
Use Organic Mulch To encourage healthy growth for both your Brussels sprouts and companion plants, use organic mulch. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and maintains a stable temperature in the soil. This will create a more favorable environment for both your Brussels sprouts and their companions.
Rotate Crops Annually To avoid pest buildup and soil depletion, practice crop rotation. Avoid planting Brussels sprouts and other brassicas in the same location each year. Instead, rotate them with other plants that are less susceptible to similar pests and diseases.
Keep an Eye on Pests Companion plants help deter pests, but it’s still important to monitor your garden regularly for any signs of infestations. Check both your Brussels sprouts and companion plants for pests, and if necessary, remove them manually or use natural pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Conclusion: Grow Your Best Brussels Sprouts Yet

Companion planting is a simple yet effective technique that can help you grow healthier, more robust Brussels sprouts while reducing the need for pesticides. By choosing the right companion plants, you can boost the growth and flavor of your Brussels sprouts, deter pests, and improve soil health. With the best companions like sage, dill, and marigolds, and the right planting techniques, you’re on your way to a flourishing vegetable patch.

If you’re ready to take your gardening to the next level and grow your best Brussels sprouts yet, start incorporating companion planting into your garden today. Have any questions or success stories to share? Let us know in the comments below – happy planting!