10 Easy-to-Grow Cool-Season Companion Plants

When planting my garden, I always leave empty spots in each bed for companion plants. These herbs and flowers attract beneficial insects and pollinators, which help control pests and add beauty and diversity to the garden. This list of cool-season companion plants includes some of my top choices. They’re easy to grow from seeds, making them ideal for filling those gaps in my beds. After planting your main crops, add a few easy-to-grow cool-season companion plants in each garden bed, and you’ll see your garden come to life.

1. Calendula

Tips for Growing: Calendula is a hardy annual that thrives in cooler weather. Sow seeds directly into the garden about ¼ inch (6 mm) deep. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.

Seed Source: Calendula Seeds
Learn More: Growing Calendula

2. Nasturtium

Tips for Growing: Nasturtiums are easy to grow and are great for the edges of garden beds or corners. Sow seeds directly into the soil, about ½ inch (1.2 cm) deep. Nasturtiums prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They attract beneficial insects like bees and can repel pests such as aphids.

Gardening with kids? Nasturtiums are a good choice. The seeds are easy to plant, and the leaves and flowers are edible. Get more tips for gardening with kids in this article.

Seed Source: Nasturtium Seeds
Learn More: Growing Nasturtium

3. Alyssum

Tips for Growing: Alyssum is a low-growing plant that produces a carpet of tiny, fragrant flowers. Sow seeds directly on the soil surface and press them in lightly. Alyssum is excellent for attracting pollinators and beneficial insects that help keep pests at bay.

Seed Source: Alyssum Seeds
Learn More: Growing Alyssum

4. Dill

Tips for Growing: Dill is a versatile herb that attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. Sow seeds directly into the soil about ¼ inch (6 mm) deep. Dill prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It’s also great for companion planting with cabbage family crops.

Seed Source: Dill Seeds
Learn More: Growing Dill

5. Cilantro

Tips for Growing: Cilantro is a cool-season herb that does well when sown directly into the garden—plant seeds about ¼ inch (6 mm) deep. Bolted cilantro attracts beneficial insects and can help deter aphids.

Seed Source: Cilantro Seeds
Learn More: Growing Cilantro

Easy-to-Grow Cool-Season Companion Plants

6. Bachelor Buttons (Cornflower)

Tips for Growing: Bachelor buttons are easy to grow and produce beautiful, colorful flowers. Sow seeds directly into the soil about ¼ inch (6 mm) deep. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

Seed Source: Bachelor Button Seeds
Learn More: Growing Bachelor Buttons

7. Borage

Tips for Growing: Borage can grow large, so it’s best planted at the end of a bed. Sow seeds directly into the soil about ½ inches (1.2 cm) deep. Borage attracts bees and other pollinators, and its leaves can be used as mulch or in compost.

Seed Source: Borage Seeds
Learn More: Growing Borage

8. Chamomile

Tips for Growing: Chamomile is a gentle herb that’s easy to grow from seed. Sow seeds on the soil surface and press them in lightly. Chamomile prefers full sun to partial shade.

Seed Source: Chamomile Seeds
Learn More: Growing Chamomile

9. Parsley

Tips for Growing: Parsley is a biennial herb that grows well in cool weather. Sow seeds about ¼ inch (6mm) deep in rich, well-drained soil. Bolted parsley attracts beneficial insects. In this guide, discover the benefits of insect hotels and learn how to effectively use them in your garden to attract beneficial bees and lacewings.

Seed Source: Parsley Seeds
Learn More: Growing Parsley

10. Violet

Tips for Growing: Violets are charming little flowers that thrive in cool weather. Sow seeds directly into the garden about ¼ inch (6 mm) deep. Violets prefer partial shade and are great for attracting pollinators while adding color to your garden.

Seed Source: Violet Seeds
Learn More: Growing Violets

Incorporating cool-season companion plants into your garden beds is an easy way to boost biodiversity, attract beneficial insects, and add beauty to your space. These ten cool-season companions are easy to grow from seed and will help your garden thrive. Plant a few seeds in the empty spots of your beds and enjoy the benefits they bring all season long.

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