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Leeks have many benefits that they can bring to the garden when used in companion planting. Most often leeks are used for the bug repelling abilities. They also add to the flavor of some crops too. In this article, we go over what are good companion plants for leeks and what not to plant with leeks in your home garden.
Leeks are part of the allium family (onions, garlic, chives, etc.). Because of this leeks are going to have many of the same companion plants as onions do.
Good Companion Plants for Leeks
- Apple Trees
- Beets
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Celery
- Chives
- Garlic
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Onions
- Parsnips
- Spinach
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
Apple Trees do well with leeks planted near them due to the leeks being able to help prevent apple scab and other fungus types that can affect apple trees. If using leeks as a companion crop for apple trees it is best to plant the leeks within a few feet of the base of the tree.
Cabbage grows well with leeks. When these two are planted together you can help yourself save space in a small garden. Also, leeks will help repel whiteflies and cabbage white caterpillars too.
Carrots benefit from being planted with leeks because leeks help keep carrot flies away. Leeks benefit from carrots due to carrots repelling onion flies. It is also said that this companion crop pair will have higher yields come harvest time. Find other good companion crops for carrots here.
Celery is a good companion plant for leeks because leeks help the taste of celery. It’s said to make celery taste sweeter. In addition to improved taste, leeks also help keep harmful insects away.
Lettuce and Kale both benefit from leeks’ strong scent keeping away harmful insects such as aphids, flea beetles, mites, and moths.
Spinach does well growing near leeks because leeks keep carrot rust flies away and other insects that can harm spinach.
Strawberries benefit from leeks being planted nearby because of the insect repelling abilities of leeks.
Tomatoes are another crop that can benefit from being a companion crop with leeks due to leeks repelling many of the insects and pests that can cause issues with tomato plants.
What not to Plant with Leeks in the Garden
- Beans
- Peas
- Peanuts
Beans should not be planted with leeks. Leeks are part of the allium family of crops and these stunt the growth of beans.
Peas should not be grown next to leeks. Leeks can cause peas to have stunted growth. Find what crops you can grow next to peas here.