About Kale
Kale is a heavy-feeding crucifer that attracts cabbage white butterfly. Aromatic herbs, trap crops, and careful spacing reduce pest pressure without overcrowding.
Autumn–spring plantings suit most NZ regions; summer crops need shade and steady moisture.
Good companions
Plants that pair well with Kale — tap for their guides. Cited sources appear where research is linked in the matrix.
Listed as beneficial in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
GarlicListed as beneficial in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
BeetListed as beneficial in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
CeleryListed as beneficial in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
CucumberListed as beneficial in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
LettuceListed as beneficial in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
SpinachListed as beneficial in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
DillListed as beneficial in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
RhubarbListed as beneficial in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
+ 2 more in the matrix
Avoid planting together
Known poor neighbours — spacing apart or rotating beds reduces shared pest and disease pressure.
Avoid climbing beans on kale — shading and aphid bridges reduce kale quality; use prior-season legume nitrogen instead.
TomatoListed as incompatible in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
Bean (Pole)Listed as incompatible in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
Cherry TomatoListed as incompatible in the matrix — open the grid for full context.
Growing tips
- Net against white butterfly in spring and autumn.
- Interplant dill or nasturtiums at row ends as beneficial-insect magnets.
- Lime acidic soils; avoid planting too many brassicas in one block.
Use the compatibility matrix
Filter to Kale to see green (beneficial), red (incompatible), and grey (neutral) for every pair among 162 plants. Desktop: hover cells. Mobile: tap for details.