What is Companion Planting?

Companion planting in farming and gardening is the planting of different crops in proximity for any of a number of different reasons, including weed suppression, pest control and pollination. Companion planting provides habitat for beneficial insects, maximizing use of space, and to otherwise increase crop productivity. Companion planting is a form of polyculture.  Companion planting is used by farmers and gardeners in both industrialized and developing countries for many reasons.

The best resource that I have found on the internet on the subject of companion planting is by the Old Farmers Almanac.  With tables, charts and extensive research, I could not do a better job that they did on this subject.

At Earth Haven Farm we use many combinations of companion planting. Our annual food sovereignty project which is about planting the Three Sisters (corn, bean and squash) is a primary example of companion planting.