Formula used
Bed area: rectangle area equals length multiplied by width. Circular area equals π multiplied by radius squared. Quantities include repeated beds or containers.
Usable area: total area is multiplied by the usable percentage. Path and border allowances reduce practical planting space. This prevents optimistic capacity estimates.
Plant capacity: allocated area is divided by plant spacing footprint. The footprint uses plant spacing and row spacing. Results should be adjusted locally.
Compatibility score: known beneficial pairings score highest. Recorded conflicts receive strong penalties. Environment and space use also contribute.
How to use
- Select the measurement unit and garden method.
- Add every bed, container, or greenhouse section.
- Enter sunlight, moisture, soil, and seasonal conditions.
- Add primary crops, companions, borders, and pollinator plants.
- Use custom spacing only when local guidance requires it.
- Select pest concerns and planning priorities.
- Calculate, review warnings, and adjust overcrowded combinations.
- Copy, print, or download the completed plan.
Example planting data
| Garden | Primary crop | Companions | Method | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raised bed | Tomato | Basil, marigold, lettuce | Interplanting | Pest diversity and efficient space |
| In-ground plot | Corn | Bean, squash | Three Sisters planting | Vertical support and soil cover |
| Container | Pepper | Basil, chive, calendula | Container combinations | Compact edible planting |
| Cool-season bed | Cabbage | Onion, dill, thyme | Alternating rows | Aromatic diversity |
Common mistakes
Do not treat companion planting as a guaranteed pest control. Climate, soil, crop health, and timing still matter. Observe plants throughout the season.
Avoid placing every crop at seedling spacing forever. Mature width and access paths require additional room. Overcrowding increases disease pressure.
Keep aggressive plants contained when necessary. Mint and some spreading flowers can dominate small beds. Separate them before roots establish.
Frequently asked questions
What is companion planting?
It places different plants together for practical benefits. These may include spacing, shade, pollinators, or pest diversity. Results vary by garden.
Are companion planting charts scientifically proven?
Some relationships have stronger evidence than others. Many charts also contain traditional observations. Test combinations under local conditions.
Why does the calculator show caution?
Caution appears for conflicting water, season, height, or compatibility records. It does not always require complete separation. Adjust the layout carefully.
Can I enter custom spacing?
Yes, custom spacing overrides the database plant spacing. Use regional seed packet guidance whenever available. Avoid values below mature requirements.
How are quantities estimated?
The calculator divides available bed area among assigned plants. It then applies spacing footprints. Desired quantities can override estimates.
Can I plan multiple garden beds?
Yes, add several beds or containers. Assign each plant to its intended bed. Pair scoring occurs within shared beds.
Does the calculator include crop rotation?
It supports seasonal and succession planning inputs. Full multi-year rotation history requires separate records. Rotate demanding plant families regularly.
How should tall plants be positioned?
Place tall crops where they avoid unwanted shade. Northern placement often helps in northern latitudes. Local sun angles still matter.
Can companion plants eliminate pesticides?
No single planting combination guarantees pest control. Use monitoring, barriers, sanitation, and biological methods too. Follow local guidance when needed.
Why are harvest dates approximate?
Harvest estimates use typical days to maturity. Weather and cultivar differences affect timing. Track actual growth after planting.
Is this suitable for containers?
Yes, choose container combinations and enter each container size. Consider root volume and watering frequency. Large crops need substantial containers.
Important guidance
This calculator provides planning estimates, not guaranteed horticultural outcomes. Local climate and cultivar behaviour can change results. Confirm recommendations with regional experts.