Broccoli + Thyme

Broccoli and thyme are a practical raised-bed pairing, particularly where brassica pests are a recurring problem. Thyme produces volatile oils, including thymol, that disrupt the host-finding behavior of cabbage loopers, imported cabbageworms, and diamondback moths. The repellent effect is most reliable when thyme is planted at the bed perimeter or interplanted at 12 to 18 inch intervals between broccoli heads, close enough that the foliage overlaps slightly during warm weather.

Soil compatibility is good: both prefer well-drained, moderately fertile ground in the pH 6.0 to 7.0 range. Thyme tolerates drier conditions than broccoli, so raised beds with consistent irrigation favor broccoli's needs without stressing the thyme.

Timing works naturally. Thyme is a perennial (or treated as one in zones 5 and warmer), so it can be established before the broccoli transplants go in and left in place after harvest. The pairing is less useful in heavy clay or waterlogged beds, where thyme struggles regardless of companion benefits.