Companion planting involves carefully selecting different varieties of plants to grow in the same space, a garden practice that has been used for hundreds of years to reduce pests, attract pollinating insects and increase the overall growth of plants. At the same time, companion planting can fill a garden with a variety of colors and smells that will add to its overall look. 

Companion planting makes efficient use of space in both small and large gardens. The radish is a good example. It grows best in the cooler weather before the summer heat sets in. It is low growing and does not take up too much vertical space, meaning it can be planted in rows between warm season veggies like tomatoes and eggplants. The radishes will be ready to harvest in three to four weeks, before the tomatoes and eggplants grow tall and shade the areas underneath them. The radish serves as a ground cover, increasing soil health, preventing erosion and acting as a barrier for weeds. In this way, the tomatoes and radishes will benefit one another.Â