Which plants should not be grown near spinach?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Spinach thrives well with the right companion plants. Some plants will disturb spinach through competition for nutrients or pests attraction. I have learned through experience which companions to avoid! Having enough distance between plants is not only essential but also prevents potential problems, including the transfer of diseases between your beds.
Potatoes
- Compete heavily for soil potassium
- Attract Colorado potato beetles that target spinach
- Create dense shade blocking sunlight
- Release growth-inhibiting solanine chemicals
Fennel
- Secretes allelopathic chemicals suppressing spinach
- Extensive root system depletes soil moisture
- Attracts aphids that migrate to spinach
- Creates disproportionate nutrient competition
Heavy Feeders
- Corn and cabbage drain nitrogen reserves
- Squash varieties monopolize soil phosphorus
- Tomatoes require excessive calcium
- Always separate by 4-6 feet minimum
Chemical interference can be a serious issue. Fennel emits root exudates that inhibit the growth of spinach. Potatoes release solanine, which suppresses leaf growth. I routinely separate these by planting at opposite sections in the garden. A physical barrier can be helpful when space is limited.
Design garden layouts accounting for root depth competition. Spinach with shallow roots can be affected by deep-rooted plants such as tomatoes or corn. Raised beds with dividers can be a solution to avoid competition. Each season, I plan root zones and map them to prevent underground resource competition.
Effective pest management is facilitated through proper spacing. Avoid placing together plants that tend to attract the same pests (e.g., aphids, leaf miners). Planting radishes with their companions serves as a natural barrier to pests. I interplant sacrificial crops with spinach to help deter insects.
Practice yearly crop rotation. Avoid placing spinach in areas where incompatible crops have recently grown. There is a need for time to recover from chemical residues. I utilize a three-year rotation process. This maintains soil health and prevents the buildup of disease.
Read the full article: When to Plant Spinach for Best Results
