These dynamic garden partners work in tandem to repel pests and attract pollinators to increase your squash yield.

One easy way to prevent both of these issues is by planting squashcompanion plants.

After the vines develop runners, side dress with an additional 3-4 tablespoons of nitrogen fertilizer.

yellow-squash-vine-8b466d25

Credit: Janet Mesic-Mackie

Squash companion plants, such as sunflowers, are also some of the topplants to grow for pollinators.

Planting them as plant partners will ensure your squash blossoms always get pollinated.

Marjoram

Squash bugsare often found congregating on squash leaves and fruit.

ear of corn growing on stalk in garden

Credit: Kritsada Panichgul

Dills strong fragrance helps repel squash bugs andother pests.

Pair it with marigolds for added protection against squash bug invasions.

Interplanting squash with radishes will put the empty soil beneath squash vines to good use.

peas growing on vine

Credit:Better Homes and Gardens

Enjoy an early, tasty harvest of fresh veggies while your squash plants ripen.

However, mint grows incredibly vigorously and can drown out slower-growing plants.

Borage plants also have charming,edible flowersand leaves, which make colorful salad toppers and garnishes, too.

close up of sunflower

Credit:Bob Stefko

Just remember that garlic is generally planted in the autumn and harvested the following summer, so plan ahead.

Choose the rightgarlicvariety for your climate: softneck for milder climates or hardneck for colder regions.

Plus, it creates a more organic and resilient garden ecosystem.

Marjoram Origanum majorana

Credit: Andy Lyons

Drost, Daniel; Heflebower, Rick.How to Grow Summer and Winter Squash in Your Garden.Utah State University Extension.

Pest: Squash Bug.Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center.

DeJong D.“Companion planting: Effects of radishes on squash bugs.

anethum graveolens dill

Credit: Peter Krumhardt

“DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln.

Accessed August 2, 2024.

pile of harvested radishes in garden bed

Credit: Marty Baldwin

mint mentha spicata

Credit: Scott Little

close up of borage plant

Credit:Rob Cardillo

‘Russian Red’ garlic

Credit: Lynn Karlin