18 Must-Know Pepper Companion Plants (with Chart)

If you’re anything like me, you love the crunch, flavor, and variety peppers bring to the garden—and to your kitchen. From sweet bell peppers to spicy jalapeños, these sun-loving plants are a staple in almost every garden I’ve grown. But here’s something I’ve learned over the years: peppers don’t thrive in isolation.

That’s where peppers companion planting comes in.

The idea is simple but powerful—pair your peppers with the right neighbors, and you’ll not only see better harvests but fewer pests and stronger soil. Whether you’re growing green peppers, hot peppers, or sweet peppers, the companions you choose can make or break your season.

And don’t worry—companion planting isn’t just for sprawling garden beds. It works beautifully in raised beds and even pots. Later in this guide, we’ll even cover the best companion plants for peppers in containers, so you can apply these tips no matter how much space you have.

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Benefits of Companion Planting with Peppers

Companion planting is more than a trend—it’s a time-tested strategy that brings balance, health, and resilience to your garden. When it comes to peppers, the benefits are especially clear. Let me break it down:

• Natural Pest Control: Peppers attract pests like aphids, spider mites, and hornworms. But when you grow them alongside strongly scented herbs like basil or flowers like marigolds, you can naturally repel those pests without relying on chemicals. In fact, planting the right companion plants to peppers can make your garden more self-reliant and less prone to infestations.
• Soil Support and Fertility: Some good companion plants for peppers—like beans and other legumes—actually improve the soil by fixing nitrogen. This helps your peppers grow stronger and more productive without constant fertilizing. Others, like carrots and radishes, break up compacted soil so pepper roots can stretch deeper.
• Pollinator Power 🐝: The more fruit you want, the more pollinators you need. Flowers such as calendula, nasturtiums, and mini sunflowers attract bees, ladybugs, and lacewings—many of which also feed on harmful pests. This is especially useful for companion plants for hot peppers, which often have a longer fruiting window and need consistent pollination.
• Microclimate & Shade: Low-growing companions like spinach or lettuce act as living mulch, keeping the soil moist and shaded. This not only conserves water but also helps reduce weed growth. It’s especially helpful for sweet peppers companion plants, which prefer cooler soil around their roots during hot summer spells.
• Better Water Retention: By covering bare soil with leafy companions, you reduce evaporation and help regulate moisture. This is crucial if you’re planting in pots, where soil dries out faster. That’s why we’ll also cover some of the best companion plants for peppers in containers later in this article.

Also Read: Indoor Plants for Better Oxygen & Clean Air 24 Hrs

Explore 18 Top Companion Plants for Peppers and Choose the Perfect Matches for Your Garden:

Let’s break it down by category: herbs, flowers, vegetables and fruits. Whether you’re growing sweet peppers, hot peppers, or even jalapeños, you’ll find the right allies below.

Best Herb Companions for Peppers:

1. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Oregano grows low and spreads out, acting as a living mulch. Its scent confuses pests, while the foliage provides gentle ground cover that helps maintain soil moisture—especially valuable in hot climates where companion plants for hot peppers are needed to help moderate the microclimate.

2. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)

Cilantro might not love hot weather, but its flowers attract hoverflies and parasitic wasps—two of your best allies against aphids and caterpillars. Let it bolt beside your peppers, and you’ll see more pollinators and fewer pests. It’s also a great choice when building a plan for companion plants for jalapeno peppers.

3. Dill (Anethum graveolens)

Dill’s delicate flowers are a magnet for beneficial bugs like lacewings and ladybugs. These insects help control soft-bodied pests that love to munch on pepper leaves. It works great in both traditional beds and containers, supporting your peppers companions with very little effort.

Also Read: Garlic Companion Plants (with Chart)

4. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Chives belong to the allium family and are excellent at repelling aphids, weevils, and mites. They’re compact, easy to grow, and ideal as companion plants for peppers in containers, especially if you’re working with limited space.

5. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

This is one of my all-time favorite companions for peppers. Not only does basil help deter aphids, thrips, and flies, but it also enhances the flavor of your peppers. It’s a natural fit in sweet peppers companion planting, especially in raised beds and container gardens. The bonus? You can harvest both for the perfect pasta night.

Related: How to Grow Basil in Pots from Seeds and Cuttings

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Flowering Companions That Support Pepper Plants:

6. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

If you only plant one flower near your peppers, let it be marigolds. Their roots produce a natural chemical that repels nematodes, while the blooms attract pollinators and pest-eating insects. They’re a classic for a reason and a staple in any peppers companion planting chart.

7. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)

These are what we call “trap crops.” Aphids and whiteflies flock to nasturtiums instead of your peppers, giving you time to intervene before a full-blown infestation. They’re especially useful for gardeners looking for green peppers companion plants that provide both beauty and function.

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8. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula offers dual benefits—pollinator attraction and pest distraction. Like nasturtiums, it draws aphids away but also adds a vibrant splash of color to your garden. A great addition to both in-ground plots and pots.

9. Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)

Zinnias are composite flowers with multiple florets per bloom, which means they feed beneficial insects longer. Their height also helps mark pepper rows without blocking sunlight. Add them to your plan for good companion plants for peppers and you’ll not only boost pollination but garden aesthetics, too.

Must Read: Pink Flowering Vines and Climbers

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Veggie Companions That Boost Your Peppers:

10. Carrots (Daucus carota subsp. sativus)

Carrots loosen up the soil with their deep roots, giving pepper roots more room to breathe. They also attract lacewings and ladybugs. And because they grow beneath the surface, they never compete with your peppers for sunlight or airflow.

Related: Carrot Companion Plants

11. Radishes (Raphanus sativus)

Radishes germinate fast and deter flea beetles—one of the more annoying pests that love pepper leaves. Plant them early in the season as a protective border around your pepper plants. This is an easy win for companion plants to peppers when you’re just getting started.

12. Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)

Beans improve the soil by fixing nitrogen, something your peppers will gladly use up as they mature. Just make sure pole beans don’t cast too much shade. Bush beans are a safer bet for maintaining light levels, especially for companion plants for hot peppers that need full sun.

13. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

Lettuce is shallow-rooted and fast-growing, making it a perfect filler around peppers in raised beds or large containers. It helps keep the soil cool and shaded, which is useful for maintaining consistent moisture.

Related: Fastest Growing Vegetables and Fruits

14. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

Spinach works similarly to lettuce but can tolerate more shade under maturing pepper plants. It’s ideal for succession planting and reducing bare soil that leads to weed growth.

15. Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla)

Swiss chard is a larger leafy green, but if spaced well, it provides low canopy cover that benefits green peppers companion plants by reducing evaporation and helping with pest deterrence.

16. Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum)🍅

Since both peppers and tomatoes belong to the nightshade family, they have similar needs when it comes to sun, water, and soil. This makes them easy to grow side-by-side if you’re mindful. The risk? They share pests like aphids and diseases like blight. If you rotate crops well and give each plant breathing space, they can be grown together without issues. Use this pairing sparingly in your peppers companion planting chart.

Related: Ways to Make Tomato Plants Grow Faster

17. Cucumbers (Cucumis sativus) 🥒

Cucumbers and peppers can thrive in the same bed when you grow cukes vertically. By training cucumbers up a trellis, you keep them off the ground and out of the way, freeing up sun and space for your pepper plants. Their large leaves can even offer some afternoon shade, which hot peppers particularly appreciate.

18. Eggplant (Solanum melongena)🍆

Eggplant is a valuable companion plant for peppers. Both belong to the nightshade family and share similar growing conditions, such as full sun and well-drained soil. When planted together, they can optimize space and attract beneficial insects like pollinators. However, it’s important to note that they can also share common pests and diseases, so implementing crop rotation and vigilant monitoring is advisable.

Must Read: Vegetables That Can Grow in 4 to 6 Hours of Sunlight

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Peppers Companion Planting Chart (Printable Infographic)

To make planning easier, here’s a clear and printable reference infographic you can bookmark or save. This peppers companion planting chart gives you a quick glance at what to plant, why it works, and how each companion supports your peppers.

Use this chart as your quick-start guide when designing your beds or containers. You can even sketch out your garden map with these companions as anchor points.

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What Not to Plant with Peppers 🚫

Not all plants play nice in the soil sandbox. Some neighbors compete for the same nutrients, attract the wrong pests, or spread diseases that can harm your pepper plants. If you’re building your peppers companion planting chart, be sure to keep these problem plants far apart.

1. Fennel

Fennel is famously selfish in the garden. It releases compounds into the soil that inhibit the growth of nearby plants—including peppers. Avoid this pairing entirely.

2. Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Kale)

These heavy feeders can crowd peppers and pull nitrogen and phosphorus from the soil, leaving your pepper plants stressed. They also attract cabbage loopers and flea beetles, which aren’t picky and may hop over to your peppers.

3. Beans and Peas (Legumes)

This one surprises many gardeners. While beans are generally great nitrogen-fixers, when grown too close to peppers they may stunt their growth. Pole beans in particular can cast too much shade and compete for root space.

4. Apricot Trees

It’s rare, but worth noting: some varieties of peppers companions—especially hot ones—may increase the risk of fungal issues when grown near apricot trees. Keep these separated if you’re growing fruit trees nearby.

5. Potatoes (in some cases)

Potatoes and peppers are both in the nightshade family and vulnerable to similar diseases like blight. If your soil is prone to fungal infections, it’s best to keep them apart—even though they can sometimes benefit from each other’s pest deterrents.

A little planning goes a long way. By avoiding these mismatches, you’ll create a thriving environment for your peppers and their friends.

Must Read: Tomato Companion Plants

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Best Companion Plants for Peppers in Containers 🌿

Container gardening has its own rhythm—and plenty of rewards. If you’re growing peppers in pots or raised beds, the key is choosing companions that are space-savvy, supportive, and won’t compete for resources. The right peppers companion plants can boost growth, deter pests, and keep your setup thriving without feeling crowded.

Here are some of my top picks for patio pots, balcony boxes, or even grow bags:

• Basil
• Marigolds
• Chives
• Lettuce
• Oregano or Thyme

When planning companion plants for peppers in containers, think vertically too. Trellis nasturtiums or pole beans behind your pepper pots for beauty, support, and pest control.

Expert Notes: Best Companions by Pepper Type 🌶️

Not all peppers grow—or behave—the same way in the garden. Let’s break down some quick, targeted advice based on the type of pepper you’re growing, whether you’re working with hot peppers, green peppers, or jalapeños.

🔥 Companion Plants for Hot Peppers

If you’re planting chili varieties or bird’s eye peppers, you’ll want to emphasize airflow and pest control. Companion plants for hot peppers like marigolds, oregano, and basil help manage heat-loving pests like spider mites and aphids. Hot peppers tend to thrive near strong-scented herbs that mask their aroma and discourage insects from settling in.

🫑 Green Peppers Companion Plants

Green bell peppers appreciate neighbors that support their fruiting process and reduce fungal risk. Green peppers companion plants like carrots, lettuce, and chives make a great low-stress team. Since green peppers are a bit slower to mature, fast-growing leafy greens around them can act as shade or moisture retainers in warmer months.

🌶️ Companion Plants for Jalapeño Peppers

Companion plants for jalapeño peppers should focus on pest protection and pollinator attraction. Dill, nasturtiums, and thyme are great choices here. They encourage bees while also keeping away aphids and beetles that love jalapeño foliage.

Different peppers, different needs—but with the right plant partners, every type can grow healthier and more productive.

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Tips for Successful Peppers Companion Planting ✅

Before you set out your transplants or sow seeds, keep these practical, field-tested tips in mind:

Think in Layers 🧠

Use vertical space wisely. Let peppers grow tall while you tuck lower-growing companions—like lettuce or thyme—underneath. This not only saves space but also creates microclimates that conserve moisture.

Don’t Overcrowd🪴

Even though we’re talking about good companion plants for peppers, keep in mind that overcrowding causes more harm than good. Every plant needs airflow, sunlight, and root space. Give each companion its breathing room.

Match Watering Needs 💧

One common mistake? Pairing peppers with thirsty plants. Peppers prefer deep, less frequent watering. Match them with companions like herbs that can tolerate similar routines.

Rotate with Care 🌿

If you’re growing peppers companions year after year in the same spot, rotate the types of companions and avoid planting nightshades (like tomatoes or eggplants) repeatedly in the same bed. This reduces disease risk over time.

Companion planting isn’t just about what grows together—it’s how they grow together. Observation and a little trial-and-error will fine-tune your setup over time.

Must Read: NDVI in Agriculture Explained

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9. Conclusion

Now you know which pepper companion plants can truly make a difference. It all comes down to smart pairings, natural synergy, and pest-repelling partners that help your garden thrive. Whether you’re growing peppers in containers or planning out your raised beds, the right companions can lead to healthier plants and bigger harvests.

From basil and marigolds to carrots and oregano, we’ve covered the best—and worst—neighbors for your pepper patch. With a thoughtful planting strategy and a little hands-on care, your peppers will thank you with a season full of flavor and abundance.

🌿 Found this article helpful? Have a pepper-growing success story or a question? Share it in the comments below! And if you’re facing challenges with your plants or have a topic you’d love us to cover next, we’re all ears. Let’s grow better together. 🌶️

👨‍🌾 Know someone who loves gardening too? Share this article with your friends or family—especially those who grow peppers or dream of starting their own garden. They’ll thank you for it!