Inputs
Select a primary crop and companions, then size your bed. The scoring helps prioritize helpful pairings and flags common conflicts.
Example data
A sample input set to demonstrate the calculator output format.
| Primary | Companions | Bed size | Goals | Expected outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tomato | Basil, Marigold, Carrot | 3.0 m × 1.2 m | Pest control, Yield | Higher compatibility; flower support; fewer common conflicts. |
| Cucumber | Dill, Radish, Nasturtium | 8 ft × 3 ft | Pollinators, Space efficiency | Better insect activity; fast fillers; improved bed use. |
Formula used
This tool converts common companion planting guidance into a transparent scoring method. It is a planning aid, not a guarantee.
- Base score: +3 if a companion is listed as helpful; −5 if listed as conflicting.
- Goal bonuses: +1 for traits matching your goals (nitrogen support, pest reduction, pollinators, quick fillers).
- Climate nudge: +1 if cool-season crops match cool climates; −1 in warm climates.
- Risk penalty: −2 for plants with higher suppression risk in mixed beds.
Normalization
RawScore is mapped into a 0–100 range using:
Score = clamp( ((RawScore + 8) / 15) × 100, 0, 100 )
Score = clamp( ((RawScore + 8) / 15) × 100, 0, 100 )
Plant counts are estimated from bed area and typical spacing, adjusted by your chosen density and (optionally) your row spacing.
How to use this calculator
- Select your primary plant (the crop you care about most).
- Add up to six companion candidates you want to include.
- Enter bed length and width, then optionally add row spacing.
- Choose goals like pest control, soil health, or pollinators.
- Press Calculate to see recommended companions and cautions.
- Download a CSV or PDF to save the plan for your garden log.