The Unexpected Vegetable Pairing Perfect For Small Gardens

If you're tight on space in your garden, being smart with your plant combinations will ensure you still get the best results. Companion planting is a fantastic way to do just that, and there's an unexpected combination you may not have thought of before: peppers and squash plants. The reason this combination works so well is that the way they grow complements each other. Peppers have vertical stems and shallow root systems whereas squash plants sprawl out horizontally with trailing vines, so they won't be competing for the same space to grow in. They can share a space happily, with peppers growing up to the sky and squash spilling out on the ground below.

Beyond just space-saving measures, peppers and squash benefit each other in more ways. When the sun is at its hottest in the summer months, the large squash leaves can create a natural shade that will help the soil retain moisture for both itself and the peppers planted nearby. The squash will essentially create a microclimate, almost acting as mulch for the pepper plants.

While pepper plants and squash plants will definitely live in harmony together, you need to make sure that you've planned a few key details. For one, choose the right varieties such as a more compact summer squash which is the best for beginner gardeners or those with a smaller garden. 

When it comes to planting, put the pepper seedlings in first, using the best way to transplant pepper seedlings to ensure a healthy harvest. Then, once these plants are established, at about eight inches tall, you can add the squash plants in between. The reason for this is that you don't want to overwhelm the young pepper plants with large squash plants too early on. Afterward, when fertilizing, you can feed them together. Apply a balanced organic fertilizer during planting times and then make sure there's some nice compost mixed in throughout the growing season.

Once the plants are established, you can kick back and relax. Keep an eye out for signs that the squash may be getting a bit unruly, and if they start climbing the pepper plants, gently redirect them. These two plants can go on to create a productive partnership that can yield a seriously impressive bounty of vegetables even in a limited space. Plus, even more of a bonus, peppers and squash taste great together if you're looking to plan your dinner menu, too.