Companion Planting: Herbs that Pair Perfectly As Growing Partners

by Matt Gibson

Most gardeners are familiar with companion planting in the vegetable garden, finding combinations of compatible plants that grow well in pairs or as a group, such as the famous three sisters combo of squash, corn, and beans. There is also a science to companion planting in the herb garden, and many herbs are great complements to plants in your veggie garden as well.

The strong fragrances herbs are known for come along with lots of gardening benefits, from driving away pests that destroy your crops to enticing beneficial insects that feed on garden misfits. Some herbs can enhance the flavor of neighboring plants or increase the essential oil content of other herb specimens planted nearby.

Whether you’re plotting out your herb garden schematic or deciding what herbs to bring into your veggie garden this season, this is what you need to know.

Chives

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are one of the most versatile and beneficial herbs you can grow, making them an excellent companion for both herbs and vegetables. Beloved for their mild, onion-like flavor and attractive purple blossoms, chives are more than just a culinary delight—they are a gardener’s secret weapon against common pests. Their strong aroma deters aphids, tiny sap-sucking insects that can wreak havoc on delicate crops like peas, lettuce, and celery. When planted near these susceptible vegetables, chives act as a natural barrier, protecting their neighbors from infestations without the need for chemical sprays.

Chives are also known to repel the cucumber beetle, a destructive pest notorious for damaging cucumber plants. By planting chives alongside your cucumbers, you create a fragrant shield that helps ensure a healthy, abundant harvest. The benefits of chives don’t stop there; their presence in the garden is believed to enhance the flavor and growth of several vegetables, particularly carrots and tomatoes. Gardeners often report sweeter, longer carrots and higher tomato yields when chives are nearby, suggesting that these humble herbs have an almost magical ability to nurture the plants around them.

It isn’t just vegetables that benefit from chives. If you grow roses, consider planting chives at the base of your bushes. Many rose gardeners swear by this pairing, noting that chives help repel Japanese beetles and prevent black spot, a common fungal disease that can mar the beauty of rose blooms. In addition to these protective qualities, chives attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden, further boosting the productivity of flowering plants and fruit-bearing crops.

Chives thrive in most gardens, requiring little more than well-drained soil and a sunny spot to flourish. Their hardiness and adaptability make them an ideal choice for novice and experienced gardeners alike. Whether you’re growing vegetables, herbs, or ornamentals, chives are a must-have addition to any garden, offering a unique blend of beauty, utility, and natural pest control.

Learn more about growing chives.

Rosemary

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is a striking and fragrant herb that stands out in any garden. However, unlike many other herbs, rosemary doesn’t play well with most of its herbal neighbors. Sage is the sole exception, as the two share a compatibility that allows them to thrive side by side. Despite its limited herb companions, rosemary proves itself a stellar partner for certain vegetables, making it a valuable addition to mixed gardens.

One of the best companions for rosemary is broccoli. Rosemary’s strong, piney aroma serves as a natural deterrent to cabbage loopers, aphids, and other pests that frequently attack broccoli heads. Meanwhile, broccoli contributes to the garden by enriching the soil with nutrients, creating an ideal environment for rosemary to flourish. This mutually beneficial relationship makes them a perfect pairing for gardeners aiming to reduce pest problems while maintaining soil health. (extension.arizona.edu)

In addition to broccoli, rosemary is a friendly neighbor to beans, cabbage, and hot peppers. Its pest-repelling qualities help protect these vegetables, creating a more productive and vibrant garden. However, rosemary has some notable exclusions when it comes to companions. Carrots, potatoes, and pumpkins should all be planted at a distance, as they do not thrive near rosemary. This herb’s robust growth habits and allelopathic properties (the ability to release chemicals that can suppress the growth of nearby plants) make it essential to plan its placement carefully. (ucanr.edu)

With its evergreen foliage and ability to attract pollinators while repelling harmful insects, rosemary is a powerful asset in the garden. By understanding its preferences and ideal companions, gardeners can harness the full potential of this versatile herb, ensuring it not only thrives but also supports the health of its vegetable partners.

Learn more about growing rosemary.

Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a beloved garden staple, not just for its culinary uses but also for its compatibility with a wide range of vegetables. Like rosemary, basil tends to prefer the company of vegetables over other herbs. While most herbs should be kept at a distance from basil, two exceptions stand out: oregano and chamomile. These herbs complement basil’s growth and can coexist harmoniously in the same garden bed. However, some herbs, particularly rue and sage, are best planted far away, as they can inhibit basil’s development. (extension.arizona.edu)

Among vegetable companions, basil is famously paired with tomatoes, a partnership celebrated in both the kitchen and the garden. This classic duo not only makes an unbeatable combination for dishes like margherita pizza or caprese salad but also works wonders when grown together. Basil is said to enhance the flavor of tomatoes, while its strong scent helps repel pests like aphids, whiteflies, and hornworms that often target tomato plants. In return, tomatoes provide shade that can help protect basil from the scorching summer sun.

Beyond tomatoes, basil is compatible with a variety of vegetables, including potatoes, beets, cabbage, beans, asparagus, eggplant, and both chili and bell peppers. These combinations can help create a thriving, interconnected garden ecosystem. Adding marigolds near basil is another effective strategy, as the two plants work together to repel harmful pests, protecting their neighbors as well as each other. This synergy makes basil an invaluable ally for gardeners seeking to reduce chemical pesticide use while boosting productivity.

With its pest-repelling abilities, flavor-enhancing qualities, and wide compatibility with vegetables, basil is more than just a culinary herb. It’s also an essential partner in any productive and pest-resistant garden.

Learn more about growing basil.

Dill

Dill (Anethum graveolens) is a dynamic and versatile herb that brings both beauty and utility to the garden. Known for its delicate, feathery foliage and distinctive aroma, dill is a magnet for beneficial insects that help maintain a healthy garden ecosystem. Ladybugs, butterflies, honey bees, wasps, hoverflies, and the majestic praying mantis are all drawn to dill, making it a powerful ally in natural pest control. These helpful visitors not only pollinate your plants but also prey on common garden pests, ensuring a balanced environment.

In addition to attracting allies, dill actively deters harmful insects like aphids, cabbage loopers, and spider mites. Its aromatic presence in the garden helps create a barrier against these pests, protecting its neighbors from damage. Dill pairs particularly well with vegetables such as lettuce, cucumbers, corn, asparagus, onions, and brassicas, including brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, and kohlrabi. These plants benefit not only from dill’s pest-repelling properties but also from the boost in pollination activity brought by its insect visitors.

However, dill is not universally compatible. Some vegetables and herbs struggle when planted near it. Peppers, potatoes, carrots, and eggplant should be kept at a distance, as dill’s growth habits and root exudates can interfere with these plants. Similarly, lavender does not thrive near dill, as their soil and moisture preferences are at odds.

With its dual role as a protector and pollinator-attractor, dill is a valuable addition to any garden. By carefully choosing its companions and placing it thoughtfully, gardeners can unlock the full potential of this remarkable herb while fostering a more vibrant and productive growing space.

Learn more about growing dill.

Cilantro

Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum), also known as Mexican parsley, is a cool-season herb celebrated for its bright, citrusy flavor and versatility in the kitchen. Beyond its culinary appeal, cilantro is a hardworking companion in the garden, forming beneficial partnerships with a variety of vegetables and herbs. Its favorite companions in the vegetable garden include tomatoes and spinach, which not only thrive alongside cilantro but also benefit from its ability to repel pests like aphids and spider mites.

One key consideration when planting cilantro is its incompatibility with fennel. These two plants are highly competitive and can hinder each other’s growth when planted too closely. Keeping them at a distance ensures that both can thrive in their respective corners of the garden.

Cilantro also gets along beautifully with several herbs, including basil, mint, tansy, yarrow, lavender, and dill. These pairings can create a harmonious herb garden while promoting biodiversity and pest control. For a fun and practical twist, try planting cilantro alongside jalapeños and onions near your tomato plants. This combination not only supports healthy growth but also sets the stage for a pick-your-own salsa bar right in your backyard.

With its pest-repelling qualities, adaptability to companion planting, and culinary versatility, cilantro earns its place as a valuable addition to both herb and vegetable gardens. Thoughtful planning and placement can help this cool-season favorite shine, making it an indispensable part of your gardening repertoire.

Learn more about how to grow cilantro.

Sage

Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a hardy, aromatic herb that thrives when grown near vegetables and fruits, making it a natural choice for the vegetable garden. While sage typically does not pair well with most herbs, rosemary is a notable exception. These two Mediterranean natives share similar soil and water requirements, allowing them to coexist harmoniously. Outside of rosemary, sage’s best companions are found among vegetables and fruits, where it offers both practical and aesthetic benefits.

Sage is particularly compatible with strawberries, tomatoes, carrots, and cabbage. Its earthy scent helps deter common pests like cabbage moths and carrot flies, providing natural protection for its neighbors. Sage also supports strawberries by attracting beneficial insects to the garden, which assist in pollination and overall plant health.

For an added bonus, consider allowing a few sage plants to bloom. The soft purple flowers are not only visually striking but also serve as magnets for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These helpful visitors can improve the productivity of your entire garden, ensuring that both fruits and vegetables reach their full potential.

With its pest-repellent qualities, compatibility with key crops, and ability to attract pollinators, sage is an indispensable addition to any vegetable garden. Thoughtful placement alongside its favorite companions ensures that this versatile herb thrives while contributing to the health and beauty of your growing space.

Learn more about growing sage.

Mint

Mint (Mentha spp.) is a fragrant and vigorous herb that brings both benefits and challenges to the garden. Known for its invasive nature, mint has a tendency to spread aggressively through underground runners, quickly overtaking garden beds if left unchecked. For this reason, many gardeners prefer to grow mint in containers, where its growth can be more easily managed. However, if you choose to plant mint directly in the ground, be prepared for regular maintenance to keep it from encroaching on neighboring plants. Even avid mojito enthusiasts and tea drinkers will find that a little mint goes a long way.

Despite its assertive growth habits, mint is a powerhouse in pest control. Its strong aroma acts as a natural repellent for many garden pests, including aphids, flea beetles, carrot flies, and onion flies. This makes mint a valuable companion for a variety of crops. Cabbage, kale, cauliflower, and radishes all benefit from mint’s protective qualities, as do carrots and onions when planted nearby.

Mint’s compatibility doesn’t stop there—it’s a remarkably accommodating herb that thrives alongside numerous vegetables. Beets, lettuce, kohlrabi, peas, broccoli, brussels sprouts, bell peppers, chili peppers, squash, and even salad burnet are all enhanced by mint’s presence. Mint’s ability to deter pests and its general adaptability make it a welcome addition to many garden ecosystems.

For gardeners struggling with aphids on tomato plants, mint can provide a simple and effective solution. By planting mint near your tomatoes, you can naturally reduce pest pressure and improve the overall health of your plants. While mint does get along with almost everyone in the garden, it’s important to remember that its growth must be managed carefully to prevent it from overwhelming its companions. With proper care and placement, mint can be a versatile and beneficial addition to your gardening efforts.

Learn more about growing mint.

Tarragon

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) is a remarkable herb known for its role as a “nurse plant” in the garden. This means that tarragon has the unique ability to enhance the flavor and stimulate the growth of nearby plants, making it a beneficial companion for almost any crop. Its adaptability and broad compatibility ensure that wherever you plant tarragon, it will contribute positively to your garden’s overall health and productivity.

One of tarragon’s standout features is its pest-repellent aroma. The herb’s distinct scent drives away many common garden pests, making it a natural and effective alternative to chemical pesticides. Tarragon can even be used as a barrier plant to section off areas of your garden, creating zones protected from unwelcome insects. This makes it particularly useful in mixed garden beds where pest management is a priority.

Among tarragon’s best companions is eggplant. Eggplants are notoriously attractive to pests, but planting tarragon nearby can help shield them from damage. The protective qualities of tarragon go beyond pest control; it is also believed to boost the yield and flavor of eggplant crops, making the two a perfect pairing for gardeners seeking a productive and harmonious garden.

With its ability to support other plants, repel pests, and thrive in a variety of conditions, tarragon is a valuable addition to any garden. Its versatility and low-maintenance nature make it an ideal choice for gardeners of all experience levels, ensuring that this humble herb can make a big impact.

Learn more about tarragon.

Catnip

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is widely known as a feline favorite, capable of sending cats into a state of playful euphoria with just a sprinkle of its dried leaves. But this hardy herb isn’t just for entertaining your pets—it’s also a valuable and versatile addition to the garden, offering a range of benefits for plants and pollinators alike.

When in bloom, catnip produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers that act as magnets for bees, helping to pollinate nearby plants and support the overall health of your garden ecosystem. At the same time, the distinctive aroma of catnip serves as a natural deterrent for a variety of pests. From ants, aphids, cockroaches, and beetles to larger nuisances like mice, rats, and weevils, catnip helps to create a pest-free zone without the need for synthetic chemicals.

Catnip works particularly well when planted along the outer edges of garden beds. Pairing it with hyssop can create an attractive and functional border that offers protection for the plants inside. This strategic placement not only repels pests but also keeps neighborhood cats preoccupied, allowing the rest of your garden to thrive undisturbed. The enticing scent and flowers of the catnip act as a feline distraction, drawing their attention away from other tempting plants.

In terms of companion planting, catnip is highly adaptable and thrives alongside beets, pumpkins, and squash. Its ability to repel pests while attracting beneficial insects makes it a reliable ally for these crops, contributing to a healthier and more productive garden. Whether you’re planting for your pets, your garden, or both, catnip is a multi-purpose herb that more than earns its place in your planting plan.

Learn more about catnip.

Garlic

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a powerhouse in the garden, offering unparalleled benefits that make it a must-have for any planting plan. Known for its strong, pungent aroma, garlic serves as a natural shield against an extensive array of pests, from tiny insects to larger nuisances like deer and rabbits. This same potent scent also helps to deter fungus and mold, two common threats to garden health, making garlic a versatile protector for your crops.

What sets garlic apart is its compatibility with most plants. It can be grown throughout your garden, providing its protective benefits to a wide range of neighbors. Garlic works exceptionally well with companion plants, improving their growth while keeping pests at bay. However, there are a few exceptions to garlic’s universal appeal. Asparagus, peas, beans, sage, and parsley are best planted at a distance, as they do not thrive in garlic’s presence.

Whether used as a companion plant or grown for its flavorful bulbs, garlic contributes significantly to the garden’s overall health and productivity. Its natural ability to ward off pests and diseases makes it an invaluable asset for gardeners looking to reduce their reliance on synthetic chemicals while fostering a robust and thriving garden ecosystem.

Learn more about growing garlic.

Herbs can serve as companion plants just as well as vegetables—maybe even better, as the strong odors from the essential oils they produce work wonders at ridding your garden of unwanted pests. Herbs are also responsible for enhancing the flavor and yield of many of your garden favorites. By carefully selecting herb companions and strategically placing them alongside vegetables, you can create a thriving, pest-resistant garden that is both beautiful and productive.

As gardeners learn more about companion planting, certain questions often arise about the best ways to pair herbs for optimal growth and health. Below are some of the most common questions people ask when planning their herb gardens, along with helpful answers to guide your planting decisions.

Which Herbs Can Be Planted Together?

The key to successfully pairing herbs is matching those with similar soil, sunlight, and watering needs. Some herbs, such as cilantro, tarragon, and basil, thrive in full sun and prefer consistent moisture. These herbs grow well together since they can share the same care routine.

In contrast, Mediterranean herbs like sage, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, oregano, and lavender are best suited to sandy, well-drained soil and thrive in drier conditions. Planting these herbs together ensures they all flourish without being overwatered. For example, thyme, a low-growing and creeping herb, pairs beautifully with rosemary and variegated sage, creating both visual interest and a harmonious growing environment.

What Herbs Grow Well With Chives?

Chives pair well with herbs that enjoy moist, rich soil. Good companions for chives include parsley, cilantro, tarragon, and basil, as they all have similar water and soil preferences. On the other hand, herbs that prefer drier, sandier soil—such as sage, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and oregano—are best kept at a distance from chives.

Can Parsley and Basil Be Planted Together?

Yes, parsley and basil make excellent garden companions. Both herbs thrive in full sun and share similar watering requirements, making them ideal partners in a well-maintained herb bed. Their compatibility also makes them convenient for gardeners who enjoy using these fresh herbs together in the kitchen.

Can Rosemary and Lavender Be Planted Together?

Yes, rosemary and lavender are a perfect match in the garden. As Mediterranean herbs, they both thrive in full sun and require well-drained soil with minimal watering. Their similar preferences allow them to grow harmoniously, creating a resilient and fragrant garden pairing.

Learn more about companion plants

Gardening Know How covers companion planting.

Our Herb Garden writes about companions.