When it comes to planting spinach, there are certain plants that should be avoided as companions. These plants can have negative effects on the growth and health of spinach, so it’s important to be aware of them when planning your garden.
1. Fennel: One plant that should not be planted with spinach is fennel. Fennel is known to release chemicals into the soil that can inhibit the growth of other plants, including spinach. Additionally, fennel can also attract pests that may harm spinach plants.
2. Potatoes: Another plant to avoid planting with spinach is potatoes. Both spinach and potatoes are heavy feeders and compete for nutrients in the soil. Planting them together can result in stunted growth and reduced yields for both crops. Additionally, potatoes are susceptible to certain diseases that can also affect spinach plants.
3. Other leafy greens: While spinach can be planted with other leafy greens, it’s important to avoid planting them too close together. Plants like lettuce, kale, and Swiss chard can compete for space, water, and nutrients, leading to decreased growth and yields. It’s best to give each plant enough room to thrive.
4. Alliums: Alliums, such as onions and garlic, can also negatively affect the growth of spinach. They release sulfur compounds into the soil that can stunt the growth of nearby plants, including spinach. It’s best to keep these plants separate in the garden.
5. Cabbage family: Spinach is a member of the beet family, while plants like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower belong to the brassica family. These plants can both attract similar pests, such as cabbage worms and aphids, which can damage spinach leaves. It’s best to keep these plants separated to reduce the risk of infestation.
In my personal experience, I made the mistake of planting fennel near my spinach plants one year. The spinach grew slowly and had stunted leaves, which I later discovered was due to the release of chemicals from the fennel. I had to remove the fennel and replant the spinach in a different location to ensure its healthy growth.
To summarize, it’s important to avoid planting spinach with fennel, potatoes, other leafy greens, alliums, and plants from the cabbage family. By avoiding these plant combinations, you can ensure the optimal growth and health of your spinach plants.
