Get to Know Your Crop Families 🥦🍅🌽

Just like people, plants have families—and getting to know them can change the game in your garden.

When we understand which veggies are related, we can make smarter choices about how and where we plant. For example, cabbage, kale, and broccoli are all part of the Brassica family, while tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants belong to the Nightshades. Grouping or rotating these families helps keep the soil healthy, cuts down on pest problems, and supports better overall growth.

We’ve learned some of these lessons through experience—both the wins and the whoops. One good combo? Planting corn with beans. The beans help feed the soil with nitrogen, and the corn gives them something to climb. A solid team.

On the flip side, we once planted several vining crops—like cucumbers, melons, and squash—all in one space. Let’s just say the struggle was real. The plants ended up competing for space, light, and nutrients, and it turned into a tangled mess. A tough season, but a great teacher.

This section is here to help you spot those family ties and plan your garden with more intention. Whether you're sketching out your next layout or just curious about what you're growing, knowing your crop families brings you one step closer to a healthier, more productive garden.

Let’s keep learning, experimenting, and growing—together. 🌱