The Best And Worst Companion Plants For Pumpkins

For a pumpkin harvest that’s destined to become the talk of the neighborhood, a thoughtful companion planting strategy is the ticket. Companion planting simply requires planting complementary crops nearby to benefit crop production and other factors that will help the crop thrive.

“Companion planting benefits pumpkins because it helps optimize the growing process and environment,” explains Carrie Spoonemore, Oklahoma City-based co-creator of Park Seed's From Seed to Spoon app. “It helps improve soil health, adds nutrients over time, and can boost pollination by utilizing varieties that attract pollinators.”

While the benefits of companion planting can’t be denied, finding a crew of best buds for your pumpkins might be easier said than done. To help take the guesswork out of the process Spoonemore shares everything you need to know about pumpkin companion planting.  

Best Companion Plants for Pumpkins

Finding the right companion plants for pumpkins also requires the right timing. Preparing the soil and conditions with the right pre-crops will help your pumpkins thrive, while post-crops can help replenish depleted soil nutrients.

Pre-Crops

• Legumes: Spoonemore says legumes like peas and beans can help add nitrogen to the soil which can benefit your pumpkin crop. It’s a natural way of reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers, she adds.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach and lettuce make ideal pre-crops for pumpkins thanks to their growth habit that doesn’t aggressively deplete the nutrients of the soil Spoonemore explains. “Their quick growth and harvest cycle can improve soil nutrient levels.”
• Brassicas: If garden pests are a problem, look to broccoli and cabbage to act as natural exterminators. “These can help reduce pumpkin pest populations, disrupt pest cycles, and reduce the incidence of pests affecting subsequent crops,” says Spoonemore.

Post-Crops

• Root Vegetables: Beets and carrots won’t compete with sprawling pumpkins for real estate. Plus, they can help improve the texture of soil for future crops by breaking it up, Spoonemore explains. 
• Cover Crops: Spoonemore says cover crops like barley and clover make ideal post-crops for pumpkins as barley prevents soil erosion and adds organic matter while clover improves soil health and replenishes nitrogen. “Both help suppress weeds and rejuvenate the soil for future planting,” she adds.

Worst Companion Plants for Pumpkins

• Squash: It’s best to stay away from winter or summer squashes, Spoonemore says, as they can compete with your pumpkin crop when it comes to both nutrients and space. They are also susceptible to the same pests which can allow harmful insects to thrive. Instead, opt for radishes. “[They] can be interplanted as they do not compete heavily with pumpkins and can deter pests like cucumber beetles,” Spoonemore suggests.
  
• Corn: While Spoonemore warns corn can compete for nutrients within the soil, particularly nitrogen, she says it can be balanced by incorporating nitrogen-fixing plants like beans. If you’re looking for an addition to your garden that won’t deplete your soil, look to herbs like basil and dill. Not only will they ensure your garden maintains the proper nutrients for your pumpkins to thrive, but they can also repel pests and won’t compete for valuable real estate that super-spreading pumpkins require.
  
• Potatoes: Potatoes are susceptible to similar diseases that affect pumpkins (i.e. blight) and also compete for nutrients, Spoonemore warns. Instead, opt for nasturtiums. They’ll repel pests while attracting insects that are beneficial to pumpkins.

Tips for Successful Companion Planting with Pumpkins

Spoonemore shares her best tips for successful companion planting with pumpkins.

• Space them appropriately. Pumpkins are a sprawling crop, which means they need plenty of space to thrive. Spoonemore recommends planting pumpkin plants 3 to 4 feet apart and allow 5 to 6 feet between rows.
• Avoid overcrowding by planning your space carefully. “For instance, plant taller companions on the north side to avoid shading pumpkins,” she says. “And place companions where they won’t interfere with the spread of pumpkin vines.”
• Use pre- and post-crops to enhance your pumpkin yield. Choosing the right plants to prime your pumpkin patch can increase the soil health before your pumpkin plants hit the ground. “Follow up with post-crops that can benefit from the residual soil improvements,” says Spoonemore.
• Stick with a consistent mulching and watering schedule. This will not only ensure proper moisture retention but also prevent weeds.
• Check for pests regularly. Opt for companion plants that repel pests to give your pumpkins a natural insect-fighting boost.
• Keep your pumpkins in check. “Manage pumpkin vines through pruning and training to prevent them from overtaking companion plants and to allow better air circulation,” says Spoonemore.