WVU Organic Research Project

Companion Planting

Many organic farmers and gardeners claim there are advantages to growing certain crop together. Such combinations are reputed to improve yields, reduce pest levels, attract beneficial insects, and even alter crop taste.

A number of studies show that intercropping, the planned association of two or more crops, can offer some of the advantages attributed to companion planting. Most intercropping studies involve large, field-scale, plots. Companion planting advocates claim effects even in small, garden-scale settings.

To test some companion planting claims garden-scale beds are planted with either a single crop, or two crops interspersed. The effects of interactions between plants are assessed by measuring light penetration, soil moisture, plant growth, yield, and sugar content.

Crops: tomato, Brussels sprout, basil

Contact: Michael Bomford