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What herbs can be grown together? Growing herbs is a fun and rewarding activity that can improve the flavor of your meals and add beauty to your garden. However, it’s important to remember that not all herbs are compatible when planted together. Some herbs have specific needs for light, water, and soil, while others may inhibit each other’s growth. In this guide, we’ll explore which herbs thrive together and which ones should be kept apart for the best results in your garden.
When deciding what herbs to grow together, it’s important to consider their requirements. For example, rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano like full sun and dry, well-drained soil, so they belong together. Basil, parsley, and cilantro like steadier moisture, so they go in a different group. Additionally, some herbs, such as mint, can be invasive and should be grown in their containers to prevent them from taking over the garden.
By planting herbs that have similar needs together, you can create a thriving herb garden that looks beautiful and provides fresh herbs to use in your cooking. With a little planning and research, you can discover what herbs can be grown together to create a healthy and productive garden.
The Benefits of Companion Planting for Herbs
Gardeners often use companion planting to try to improve growth and reduce pests. Evidence for many pairings is limited, so treat these as traditional practice rather than proven results. Here are the usual reasons for doing it:
Improves Growth and Flavor – What Herbs Grow Well Together?
Gardeners have long believed that some pairings help each other, such as basil beside tomatoes. Research on these effects is limited, so the surest benefit is practical: herbs with the same needs are easier to water and feed together.
Deters Pests and Diseases – What Herbs Grow Well Together?
Some gardeners plant strongly scented herbs such as rosemary or thyme near vegetables, and add flowers such as marigolds to attract beneficial insects. Results vary, and companion planting is no substitute for checking your plants for pests.
Saves Space – What Herbs Grow Well Together?
Companion planting can also save space in your herb garden by allowing you to plant multiple herbs in the same container or bed. For example, planting thyme, oregano, and sage together can create a beautiful and fragrant herb garden that takes up minimal space.
Companion planting is mainly a way to organize your herbs sensibly and save space.
Recommended Herb Combinations for Companion Planting – What Herbs Can Be Grown Together
Herbs grow best next to neighbors that share their sun, water, and soil needs. These groupings are a good starting point:
Thyme, Rosemary, and Sage – What Herbs Can Be Grown Together
Thyme, rosemary, and sage are all Mediterranean herbs that thrive in similar growing conditions. These herbs are great for planting together because they have similar water and sunlight requirements.
Basil, Parsley, and Cilantro
Basil, parsley, and cilantro all like regular watering and rich, well-drained soil, so they can share a bed or a large pot. Basil wants full sun, while cilantro and parsley tolerate afternoon shade, so put the basil on the sunnier side. Basil is also traditionally grown beside tomatoes.
Dill and Fennel
Keep dill and fennel apart. They can cross-pollinate, which affects the seeds you save, and gardeners often grow fennel on its own because they report it crowds its neighbors.
Herbs That Should Be Planted Alone – What Herbs Can Be Grown Together
When it comes to growing herbs together, not all herbs thrive in the same conditions. Some herbs are best planted alone to avoid competition for resources. Here are a few herbs that should be planted alone.
Mint – What Herbs Grow Well Together?
Mint is a popular herb that is known for its refreshing taste and aroma. However, mint is also an invasive plant that can quickly take over a garden. It is best to plant mint in a container to prevent it from spreading and taking over other plants in your garden. If you do plant mint in the ground, make sure to keep it contained by using a barrier around the plant.
Tarragon – What Herbs Grow Well Together?
Tarragon is a delicate herb that is best grown alone. French tarragon likes full sun and dry, well-drained soil, so it does best in a spot of its own. Tarragon also prefers well-drained soil and full sun, so it is best to plant it in a location where it can get plenty of sunlight without being shaded by other plants.
Lemon Balm – What Herbs Grow Well Together?
Lemon balm is a fragrant herb that is often used in teas and desserts. However, it is also an invasive plant that can quickly take over a garden. It is best to plant lemon balm in a container to prevent it from spreading and taking over other plants in your garden.
Lemon Verbena – Herbs That Grow Well Together?
Lemon verbena is a popular herb that is known for its lemony scent and flavor. It is frost-tender, so it is usually grown in a pot that can be moved indoors for winter.
While many herbs can be grown together, some herbs are best planted alone to avoid competition for resources. Mint, tarragon, lemon balm, and lemon verbena are a few examples of herbs that should be planted alone. By keeping these herbs separate from other plants, you can ensure that they thrive and produce the best possible flavor.
Tips for Successful Herb Companion Planting – Herbs That Grow Well Together?
Here are a few tips for growing herbs together:
Consider Growing Conditions – Herbs That Grow Well Together?
Different herbs have different growing conditions, so it’s important to consider these factors when planting them together. Some herbs prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade. Additionally, herbs require well-draining soil to prevent root rot and other issues. When planting herbs together, make sure they have similar growing conditions to ensure they all thrive.
Know Your Herbs’ Friends and Foes – Herbs That Grow Well Together?
Just like people, some herbs get along better than others. Some herbs share similar needs and sit well together, like basil and parsley. Dill and fennel are best kept apart because they can cross-pollinate. Make sure you research which herbs make good companions and which ones should be planted separately.
Proper Spacing and Maintenance – Herbs That Grow Well Together?
When planting herbs together, it’s important to give them enough space to grow. Some herbs, like rosemary and sage, can grow quite large, so make sure they have enough room to spread out. Additionally, make sure to maintain your herbs by pruning them regularly and removing any dead or diseased leaves. This will help keep your herb garden healthy and productive.
By following these tips, you can create a successful herb garden with a variety of delicious and fragrant herbs. Remember to consider growing conditions, know your herbs’ friends and foes, and maintain proper spacing and maintenance for a thriving herb garden.
Before You Go – What Herbs Can Be Grown Together
Growing herbs together is a great way to maximize space, promote growth, and create a visually appealing garden. By selecting herbs that share similar growing conditions, you can create a thriving and harmonious herb garden.
When planning your herb garden, it is important to consider factors such as sunlight, water, and soil requirements. Some herbs, like basil and cilantro, prefer consistent moisture, while others, like rosemary and thyme, prefer drier soil. By grouping herbs with similar needs together, you can create an environment that is conducive to growth.
In addition to considering growing conditions, it is also important to think about which herbs complement each other in terms of flavor and aroma. For example, basil and tomatoes are a classic pairing, while rosemary and garlic make a great combination for savory dishes.
Overall, growing herbs together is a fun and rewarding way to add flavor and beauty to your garden. With a little planning and care, you can create a thriving herb garden that will provide you with fresh, delicious herbs all season long.
References – What Herbs Can Be Grown Together
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley
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Frequently Asked Questions – What Herbs Can Be Grown Together
Which herbs grow well together?
Herbs with similar needs do. Rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano suit dry, sunny spots, while basil, parsley, and cilantro prefer steadier moisture. Gardeners also plant chives, marigolds, and nasturtiums among their herbs, although the pest-control benefits are not well proven.
What are some herbs that should not be planted together?
Some herbs that should not be planted together include dill and fennel. These two herbs can cross-pollinate and produce seeds that are not true to the original plant. Additionally, mint can be invasive and should be planted in its container or in an area where it won’t spread out of control.
How far apart should herbs be planted?
It depends on the herb. Small herbs such as thyme, chives, and parsley can sit about 6 to 12 inches apart, while rosemary and sage need much more room as they mature, so check each plant’s label.
What are some herbs that grow well with basil?
Basil grows well with herbs that like regular watering and full sun, such as parsley and chives, and it is traditionally planted beside tomatoes. Herbs that prefer drier soil, such as thyme, oregano, and sage, do better in their own pot.
What is the best way to layout an herb garden?
The best way to layout a herb garden depends on the space you have available and your personal preference. Some popular layouts include a raised bed, a container garden, or a border garden. Consider the amount of sunlight, drainage, and soil quality in your chosen location when planning your layout.
Can parsley and basil be planted together?
Yes, parsley and basil can be planted together. They have similar growing conditions and can complement each other in recipes. However, be sure to give each plant enough space to grow properly and avoid overcrowding.