Companion plants for kale
We found 0 sourced companions and 2 pairings to use with caution. Each one links to its source and shows how strong the evidence is.
Growing kale
Brassica oleracea var. acephala
- Sun
- Full sun; tolerates partial shade (4–6 hours of direct light)
- Water
- Even moisture
- Soil
- Loose, well-drained soil, pH 6.0–6.5
- Spacing
- 12–24 inches for large plants; 2–4 inches for repeated baby-leaf harvests
Good companions for kale
No sourced companion pairings for kale yet.
Use caution
Cabbage
Extension guidanceKale and cabbage share pests and diseases.
Both are Brassica oleracea cole crops, which have similar cultural requirements, diseases and pests. Grouping them gives those pests more of what they feed on, and kale should not follow other cole crops in the same spot.
Spacing: No safe separation distance is established; rotate cole crops to a new spot each year.
Pests: Scout for caterpillars and flea beetles; row covers can exclude them.
UMass Amherst · New England Vegetable Management Guide, Brassica cropsBroccoli
Extension guidanceBroccoli and kale share pests and diseases.
Both are Brassica oleracea cole crops with similar cultural requirements, diseases and pests. Grouping them gives those pests more to feed on, and cole crops should not follow each other in the same spot.
Spacing: No safe separation distance is established; rotate cole crops to a new spot each year.
Pests: Scout for caterpillars and flea beetles; row covers can exclude them.
UMass Amherst · New England Vegetable Management Guide, Brassica crops
Other crops
Check pairings in your own beds
Smart Garden Planner flags companions and conflicts as you add kale and other plants to a garden bed.
Reference version 2026-11-03. Educational information; local conditions vary — check your local extension office.