Within the world of companion planting there are several key methods by which one plant might benefit another; this could be through pest control, increased pollination opportunities, or, as is the case with spinach and radishes - using nature's skills in misdirection.Spinach is favoured for its lush dark leaves which are packed with nutrients and minerals and are darn tasty too. Humans, however, aren't the only ones who have cottoned on to this fact, and the likes of leaf miners, slugs, snails and other pests often get stuck in before we get a chance to ourselves. Enter radishes into the equation, however, and everything changes. The majority of pests would much rather munch of the green leaves of a radish plant than on spinach, thus luring the bad guys away from your favourite greens. "But what about my radishes?" I hear you cry. No worries, with the part you're interested in stashed safely underground, hungry insects and larvae can nibble away to their hearts' content without interfering with your buried treasure.Harvest is a time when pulling up the wrong plant or cutting the wrong leaves can be a nightmare with crippling consequences. Luckily, in addition to the benefits already outlined in growing spinach and radishes together, they both have a very distinct look about them, minimising confusion between crops.Not only are they super easy to tell apart, but providing both were planted at the same time, radishes will mature within 20 to 25 days and spinach within 40 to 45, so harvest times will be approximately 2 weeks apart making doubly sure you're picking the right plant. Easy!If you're short of space, spinach and radishes are also perfect for growing in a window box. Simply staggering the planting of your batches of seeds or seedlings can keep you in fresh vegetable contentment for months on end.Image: Diana Taliun/Shutterstock