Spinach is a cold-tolerant plant that grows best in spring and fall, and bolts in the summer heat. However, there are plenty of heat-tolerant vegetables, herbs, and flowers that can be planted alongside spinach to keep veggie beds productive through summer and boost harvest yields. Best of all, many of these spinach companion plants also repel pests and can help protect spinach leaves from damage.

What Is Companion Planting?

Companion planting is a simple gardening technique where you plant plants that support each other’s growth close together. Some companion plants may repel pests or attract predatory insects that devour destructive bugs, while other companion plants may provide shade, attract pollinators, or offer other benefits.

If you want to grow healthier and more productive spinach plants, here are a few companion plant pairings to try.