Best Companion Plants for Celeriac (and What to Avoid)

ByStephen Albert

Sharing is caring!

Celeriac thrives when planted alongside the right companions and can suffer when grown near incompatible crops. Over decades of gardening in Sonoma Valley, I’ve learned which plants boost growth, improve flavor, and reduce pests—and which to keep at a distance. Proper companion planting helps celeriac develop large, smooth roots while keeping your garden ecosystem healthy.

Best Companion Plants for Celeriac

  • Leeks and Onions: These alliums repel pests like aphids and leaf miners while improving celeriac flavor.
  • Bush Beans and Peas: Legumes fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing root growth and overall plant vigor.
  • Spinach and Lettuce: Fast-growing leafy greens fill space and help suppress weeds without competing for root nutrients.
  • Herbs like Dill, Rosemary, and Sage: These aromatic herbs repel common pests naturally and attract beneficial insects.
  • Carrots and Parsnips: Root crops with similar soil needs grow well alongside celeriac when spaced properly.

Plants to Avoid Near Celeriac

  • Celery: Although related, planting celery nearby increases risk of shared pests and diseases.
  • Fennel: Produces chemicals that inhibit celeriac growth. Keep at least 3–4 feet away.
  • Corn: Competes heavily for nutrients and space, reducing root size.
  • Potatoes and Tomatoes: High nutrient demand and susceptibility to similar diseases make them poor companions.

Tips From Experience

  • Rotate crops each season to reduce pest and disease buildup.
  • Interplant aromatic herbs to naturally repel insects.
  • Maintain proper spacing to avoid competition for light and nutrients.

Bottom Line

Choosing the right companions and avoiding harmful neighbors promotes large, healthy, flavorful celeriac roots while supporting a thriving garden ecosystem.

Celeriac Learning Hub

Start here: How to Plant, Grow, and Harvest Celeriac: A Complete Guide

Celeriac Planting & Growing Basics

Care, Feeding & Watering

Pests, Diseases & Natural Controls (Combined)

Harvesting, Storing & Preserving (Combined)

Companions, Varieties & Garden Planning

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

Similar Posts