Companion Planting: What Herbs to Plant Together
Companion planting is a gardening technique where certain plants are grown together because they have a beneficial effect on each other. This technique is used to improve soil fertility, control insect and pest infestation, and promote healthy plant growth. Here are some of the best herbs to plant together for a successful companion planting:
Mint and Sage
Mint and sage are two amazing herbs to plant together because they can repel each other's pests. Sage can repel cabbage moths, carrot flies, and spider mites, while mint can repel ants, aphids, and flea beetles. Additionally, these two herbs can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to your garden.
Chives and parsley
Chives and parsley are two herbs that can grow together harmoniously because they have similar growing requirements. Chives can repel Japanese beetles, aphids, and slugs, while parsley can attract hoverflies that will feed on your garden's aphids. Additionally, both of these herbs can help improve the soil by adding nutrients like potassium, which is essential for plant growth.
Basil and tomatoes
Basil and tomatoes are two all-time favorites of any herb and vegetable garden. These two plants are perfectly compatible because they can benefit each other in multiple ways. Basil can repel tomato hornworms, aphids, and whiteflies, while tomatoes can provide a natural support structure for basil to grow tall. Additionally, basil can improve the flavor of ripe tomatoes, making them more delicious.
Rosemary and thyme
Rosemary and thyme are two herbs that have a lot in common. These herbs are both aromatic and can add a unique flavor to many dishes. They also have similar growing requirements, making them the perfect match to plant together. Rosemary can repel root maggots, while thyme can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to your garden. Additionally, these two herbs can help improve the soil by adding valuable nutrients like iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Parsley and cilantro
Parsley and cilantro are two herbs that can benefit each other when grown together. Cilantro can repel aphids, spider mites, and potato beetles, while parsley attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies that feed on harmful pests. Additionally, cilantro can help keep the soil moist, which is important for the growth of parsley.
Conclusion
Companion planting is a great way to maximize the productivity of your herb garden. By planting herbs together that can benefit each other, you can improve soil fertility, control insect infestation, and promote healthy plant growth. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting, trying out companion planting with these herbs is a great place to begin.