What plants should never be near cauliflower?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Choosing bad companions for cauliflower will result in stunted growth, and perhaps loss from insects. No plant grows well when its neighbours are of character to rob it of food or attract upon it their enemies: thus I always pay strict attention to the plan I draw out.
Tomatoes
- Release solanine that inhibits cauliflower root development
- Compete intensely for phosphorus and potassium nutrients
- Attract hornworms that later migrate to brassicas
- Require different soil pH levels than cauliflower
Strawberries
- Attract slugs that favor cauliflower's tender leaves
- Spread verticillium wilt that affects both plants
- Create excessive ground cover promoting fungal growth
- Root systems tangle and limit cauliflower growth space
Corn is bothersome; it excludes desirable sunlight, its tall stalks casting shadows that reduce the light by 70 percent. Its widespread roots make it a source of competition for water. Plant corn on the north side of the garden. This saves the sun-craving cauliflower from the shade.
Pole beans take nitrogen from the soil at the time cauliflower needs it most, but they do fix nitrogen for the soil. However, it is consumed so rapidly by the vine that the beans exhibit yellow leaves and fail to develop properly. Bush beans sown about ten feet distant do better, but I plant facie nitrogen-covering crops instead.
Aromatic Herbs
- Thyme repels cabbage worms with its strong scent
- Rosemary deters flea beetles effectively
- Mint confuses pests but requires containers
- Dill attracts beneficial wasps that eat aphids
Vegetable Allies
- Celery masks cauliflower scent from pests
- Onions deter root maggots naturally
- Spinach provides ground cover without competing
- Beets share similar nutrient needs harmoniously
Use physical barriers when growing incompatible plants (some plants are very particular about who they associate with). I've sunk root barriers 12" deep between incompatible plants. I also use shade cloth to manage light competition. Personally, I create draughts of dedicated brassica beds away from troublesome fruiting plants (this resolves most 'conflicts').
Read the full article: When to Plant Cauliflower: Expert Timing Guide
