Picture a lush herb garden brimming with vibrant greenery, tantalizing aromas, and the promise of fresh flavors for your kitchen. But to achieve this dreamy setup, knowing which herbs grow well together is essential.
Companion planting isn’t just for vegetables; it’s a game-changer for herbs too.
1. Basil & Oregano: The Dynamic Duo
Basil and oregano are classic pairings, often found side by side in the garden and the kitchen. Both herbs enjoy similar growing conditions: plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. (ref)
Basil, known for its sweet aroma and bright green leaves, can deter pests such as aphids and spider mites. Oregano, with its strong, zesty flavor, complements basil beautifully, both in the soil and in culinary creations.
Together, they make a powerhouse pair for your herb garden. Additionally, basil enhances the flavor of oregano and boosts its essential oils, making your dishes even more delectable .
2. Rosemary, Thyme, & Sage: Mediterranean Trio
If you’re aiming for a Mediterranean vibe in your garden, rosemary, thyme, and sage are your go-to herbs. These perennials love full sun and drier soil, making them low-maintenance and perfect companions.
Rosemary’s piney scent and needle-like leaves, thyme’s pungent aroma, and sage’s earthy flavor all blend harmoniously. These herbs also repel a variety of pests, making them excellent for keeping your garden healthy. Their shared love for dry conditions means you won’t have to worry about over or under-watering any one plant.
3. Chives & Parsley: The Perfect Pals
Chives and parsley are a fantastic pair, especially if you’re looking to add a bit of flair to your garden and your plate. Chives are known for attracting pollinators while repelling pests like aphids, which can be beneficial for parsley. Parsley, a biennial herb, is a versatile plant that grows well with many herbs but pairs exceptionally well with chives. (ref)
Both herbs prefer moist soil and can thrive in partial shade. Moreover, parsley’s deep taproot helps improve soil structure, benefiting neighboring plants.
4. Mint & Lemon Balm: Refreshing Partners
Mint and lemon balm, both known for their refreshing flavors, are great companions but with a caveat. Mint is notorious for its invasive nature, so it’s best to grow it in a separate container to prevent it from overtaking other herbs. Lemon balm, which shares mint’s preference for moist soil and partial shade, can be planted nearby.
Together, they can be used to create soothing teas and flavorful infusions. Lemon balm also attracts pollinators, adding another benefit to this pairing.
5. Cilantro & Dill: Cool Season Companions
Cilantro and dill thrive in similar conditions, preferring cooler weather and well-drained soil. Both herbs can be planted together in the same container or garden bed, as they have complementary growth habits and do not compete aggressively for nutrients.
Dill, with its feathery leaves, can also help deter pests from cilantro, making this pairing both practical and delightful for your herb garden. Dill’s deep roots can also improve soil aeration and drainage, benefiting cilantro and other nearby plants.
6. Lavender & Marjoram: Aromatic Allies
For a fragrant and colorful addition to your herb garden, consider planting lavender and marjoram together. Both herbs love full sun and well-drained soil.
Lavender’s soothing scent and beautiful purple flowers make it a garden favorite, while marjoram, with its mild, sweet flavor, pairs well with culinary dishes. This combination not only looks stunning but also helps attract beneficial insects to your garden. Additionally, marjoram’s compact growth helps to fill in spaces around lavender, reducing weed competition.
Companion planting herbs is more than just a space-saving strategy; it’s a way to create a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem in your garden. By choosing herbs with similar growing requirements and complementary benefits, you can ensure a bountiful harvest of fresh flavors all season long.
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.