Herbs, knowingly or not, affect all of us in one way or another; these garnishes tend to be easier to grow than most people think, and some can even be planted together. Growing the right herbs together can enhance garden growth and naturally repel pests. Knowing which herbs can be planted together will lead to more successful, efficient gardening and growing.
There are numerous different combinations of easy-to-grow herbs that can thrive nearby. Some herbs clash when grown together; for this reason, knowing which herbs do and do not combine well is necessary for gardening success.
To obtain a comprehensive understanding of which herbs can be planted together, one must delve into the characteristics and behaviors and the conditional needs of their respective herb plants. Some aromatics require moist soil with high irrigation, while others need to be reduced sunlight and can go without water for weeks! Once equipped with the proper knowledge, observing disappointing harvests will be a faraway cloud in your herb memory.
Factors to Consider Before Cross-Planting
Although many herbs are often seen in the same dish or garden, the same is not always seen during the growing process. Before planting herbs together, there are a few conditions to consider, most notably sun exposure, watering, and temperature.
As a green rule of thumb, ensure that the herbs you plant together have similar conditional needs; breaking this rule may result in herbal destruction or demise.
Sunlight
As a pillar of plant existence, exposing your herbs to sunlight is necessary to ensure healthy growth and flourishment. Be sure to group plants that have similar sun needs together, like the Mediterranean herbs:
- Thyme
- Marjoram
- Oregano
- Lavender
Although your herbs may have the same tendencies to thrive in the same concentrations of sunlight, this avenue is but a piece of the puzzle.
Water Needs
As seen from all plants east to west, water is fundamental to life, although the quantity a plant needs to survive varies greatly. This disparity in the water among herbs is another faction that dictates whether or not herbs can be planted with each other.
Take, for example, an aromatic herb like basil:
- Basil can be planted with oregano due to their similarities in water retention and anatomy
- Basil cannot be grown with sage, as the latter thrives in dry soil
Take note of your herbal plant’s watering needs before growing contrasting herbs adjacently.
Soil/ Drainage
Just as every herb needs the right amount of water, using and losing the proper amount is key to maintaining herbal health. All plants have different needs, depending on varying factors such as soil quality and moisture levels.
Looking at the tendencies of your specific herb and noting their optimal watering levels will guide you to remove dryness without overwatering.
As a note, if water spills through and out of holes in the bottom of your plant pot (if your herbs are planted in a pot) or if you observe inadequate water retention in your plant, inspect the drainage system; any blocked holes or obstructions can end up pooling water in the root system.
Competition/ Non-Compatibility
Some herbs will grow aggressively over the fellow kindred, stomping out any potential herbal companions, while others are too similar, raising the risk of cross-pollination and a strange outcome.
Best described as the bullies among the herbs, a minority of fragrant plants will overtake a garden or sector; these herbs must be isolated and, if necessary, shortened more often than usual to keep a series of plants healthy.
An example of this territorial behavior is seen in mint; unless paired with other mint siblings, this herb is best grown in solitude. In this regard, the aphorism “what’s bad for the hive is bad for the bee” comes to fruition.
Cross-pollination and non-compatibility are also issues that can make one not wearisome when setting up an herbal garden system. Herbs of similar pedigrees may inadvertently cross-pollinate, producing unpalatable, if interesting, combinations.
Basil
The sidekick of the tomato and cousin of parsley, basil is a staple in various cuisines, flowing seamlessly over national and cultural boundaries. In the garden, this fragrant herb is not quite as versatile, although it has a few allies to keep it company.
Herbs to Plant With Basil
Basil subsists best with:
- Parsley
- Cilantro
- Tarragon
- Garlic
- Chives
All four herbs listed above can and will survive fruitfully alongside one another, not impeding each other or interfering with growth. Further, cilantro can protect fellow herbs and plants from pests, a win-win in the garden game.
Be wary when adding other herbs to the list above; the four mentioned are guaranteed to live in harmony but introducing even one uncompromising herb can upset the balance and result in issues.
Inspect the factors above to learn if an unmentioned herb is compatible with basil; if so, it is best to experiment first with basil exclusively, to ensure both parties are satisfied.
The Basil Effect
It should also be noted that basil has been praised for enhancing growth and taste when grown in conjunction with tomatoes. Across the board, the combination of cultivating tomatoes with basil has been attributed to bright, full products on either side of the relationship.
Herbs to Keep Away From Basil
While curiosity and creativity are valuable assets, including these attributes within the realm of basil can be intrusive.
Keep basil away from:
- Sage
- Rue
- Mint
Basil Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight (At least 6 hours per day)
Water: Once a week (about 1 inch per week)
Soil: Well-drained, moist
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Pairs perfectly with tomatoes
Chives
If chives were manifested into a person, they would likely turn out to be somebody like Fred Rogers; gentle-tempered, big-hearted, and a mark of goodwill. Regarding planting, chives can be grown anywhere in the right conditions. Even in this regard, chives are pretty flexible.
Herbs to Plant With Chives
- Parsley
- Cilantro
- Tarragon
- Basil
The main factor in growing chives with other herbs is soil moisture; while they thrive in full sunlight, chives can also grow in partial sunlight. Refrain from attempting to grow chives on sandy, dry grounds.
Chive Chivalry
Another benefit of growing chives in your garden is their natural attraction to pollinators and the natural repelling of pests. Their onion-like smell and projective perfume push away any lurking insects or small animals. They can also provide great grown coverage for landscapers, topping off their long stems with bright pink flowers.
Chives go full circle during their lives, starting as seeds and ending as edible, mild-mannered garnishes for dishes. Using them as a substitute for onions or as a dip are both valuable applications for this well-rounded herb.
Herbs to Keep Away From Chives
As mentioned earlier, the only real requirement for happy chives is proper soil conditions; sandier, drier herbs should not be mixed with chives.
Keep chives away from:
- Sage
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Other dry soil herbs
Chives Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sun is best (at least 6 hours), but the reduced sun is okay also
Water: Regularly- when soil is dry to the touch, then soak
Soil: Well-drained, moist
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Well-rounded, Guardian of the Garden
Cilantro
Hailing from a fertile region between the continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa, cilantro is a fresh, refreshing herb with a justifiably popular name. Similarly to basil, cilantro is comfortable bunking in with analogous herbs that need moist soil and thorough drainage.
Herbs to Plant With Cilantro
- Parsley
- Basil
- Tarragon
- Chives
When growing cilantro, the primary consideration to attend to is an adequate water supply while being cautious not to overwater. Due to the structure of cilantro and related herbs, supplying too much water can result in root issues.
For a bit of an anatomy lesson, cilantro plants and characteristically similar plants have deep-running roots, and excess water can become hurtful by pooling at the bottom of these roots.
Signs of Overwatering
The first prominent sign of an overwatered plant is wilting leaves in the presence of water soil; take care to notice the last time you have watered the plant to ensure that you have applied too much water.
The second notable physical symptom of overwatering is root rot, which excessively flooded roots can identify. These roots will appear decayed and rotten.
If you are early enough, relocating your plant to a less flooded soil system can solve overwatering, although it is easier to prevent than fix.
Cilantro Scene
Also known as coriander, the cilantro plant is widely used in South American cuisine and Southern Europe. While it does not offer as much in the garden ecosystem as an herb like chives, cilantro is praised on the dinner plate.
Whether you pick the “green leafy stuff” out of your burrito or snipping it from your garden, cilantro is a quality herb to plant, requiring very little maintenance.
Herbs to Keep Away From Cilantro
- Fennel
- Sage
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Other dry soil herbs
- Herbs that require low sunlight
Cilantro Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight or light shade in scorching climates*
Water: Once a week (about 1 inch per week)
Soil: Well-drained, moist; be careful not to overwater
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: 2017 Herb of the Year
*Note: Unlike many herbs, cilantro thrives best in lower temperatures, though it can also grow in higher temperatures.
Dill
A member of the celery family Apiaceae, dill is enjoyed in its leaf and seed forms, topping fish like salmon or tuna. Native to the eastern Mediterranean and western Asia region, dill is a good-humored herb, friendly in the garden and fresh on the plate.
Herbs to Plant With Dill
- Parsley
- Basil
- Chives
- Garlic
As another Mediterranean-based herb, dill should be planted with fellow plants that enjoy moist soil. It is worth mentioning that many vegetables do not work well with dill, most notably carrots and peppers.
The Dill Discussion
Dill offers many health benefits, although growing and cultivating your herbs comes with a few mentionable rules to follow.
Before sowing your dill seeds, remember that dill does not transplant very well, so if you plan on growing your herb plants in the ground, it is best to start the process there.
To address the elephant in the room, you can use dill to make your dill pickles, although that is an endeavor in itself.
A final mentionable trait of dill is its natural attraction to probiotic insects; most notably, it is the first choice herb for the black swallowtail butterfly if you are into that kind of stuff.
Herbs to Keep Away From Dill
- Lavender
- Fennel
- Sage
- Rosemary
- Other dry soil herbs
Dill Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight is best (at least 6 hours)
Water: Once a week (about 1 inch per week)
Soil: Well-drained, moist
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Courage Herb; it was heavily used in gladiator meals to instill courage and valor. It may make an herb garden braver.
Garlic
The most popular herb in Europe and Africa, garlic is synonymous with Italian food and vampires, although, in the garden, it is not a threat by any means. Pungent and protective, garlic is a great companion herb for many fellow herbal plants and neighboring vegetables.
Herbs to Plant with Garlic
- Chamomile
- Dill
- Basil
Garlic is a bit of an oddball regarding its soil needs and preferences. Contrasting some of its regionally similar herb family members, garlic prefers loose, well-drained soil. The best results will be seen with this loose soil, although firmer soil will not prevent substantial growth.
For this reason, if you plan on planting an herbal garden, including garlic may require a separation between plants or slightly slowed or reduced growth on your plant. But before you give up on garlic, if you plant it with the mentioned herbs above that also need lots of sunlight, there is a chance of successful growth.
The Garlic Game
Among herbs, garlic is a standout in health benefits and has been the subject of mass applause over the years; numerous individual studies have concluded that garlic positively impacts human health and well-being.
While there are countless proposed effects of garlic on the body, there are also some proven scientific perquisites. According to healthline.com, garlic holds power to:
- Combat the common cold
- Reduce blood pressure
- Lower cholesterol levels
Along with countless other proposed benefits, like a reduction in the likelihood of dementia and a longer life span, garlic makes its stake as a superfood herb.
Herbs to Keep Away From Garlic
- Sage
- Parsley
- Lavender
- Rosemary
Garlic Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight is best (At least 6 hours)
Water: Once a week (about 1 inch per week), water more in warm weather
Soil: Well-drained, moist, loose
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Superhero Health Herb; incredible health benefits
Lavender
Widely used as a relaxant in teas, fragrances, and supplements, lavender is best described as a calming herb, a purple plant with many purposes. Adopting the persona and profile of a flower, lavender is a valuable and flexible herb, comfortable around other Mediterranean herbs.
Herbs to Plant With Lavender
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Marjoram
As has been mentioned a few times, Mediterranean herbs like to stick together; in this regard, their similarities in soil, sun, and water preferences bind them. Considering these factors, a Mediterranean herb garden is a great, simple idea.
Maintaining consistent conditions and watering the proper amount are the two main steps to keep in mind when growing herbs like lavender; these aromatics tend to be resilient and very low maintenance, requiring little to no upkeep between planting and harvesting.
Lavender is especially resilient and thrives in the blazing sun, accompanied by dry soil.
The Purple Herb
To steer things back towards lavender, the periwinkle herb has numerous applications ranging from soaps to antiseptics. For efficiency, here is a comprehensive list of everything you can imagine related to lavender.
Another exciting avenue of lavender is its quality of being a natural deterrent; the plant’s fragrance puts off insects and even mammals like mice and deer. This attribute makes lavender the best of both worlds; sensory soothing while naturally defensive against predators.
Herbs to Keep Away From Lavender
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Moisture-loving herbs
Lavender Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight is best (At least 6 hours)
Water: Sparingly, once every 2-3 weeks until buds form, then once a week
Soil: Well-drained, dry
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Master of All Trades; will do exceptionally well in whatever capacity is necessary
Marjoram
An aromatic herb historically used as a digestive aid, marjoram is a beneficial herb with a funny name. Please do not make the mistake of downplaying this aromatic, however, as it has many benefits and easily slips into most gardens.
Herbs to Plant With Marjoram
- Rosemary
- Oregano
- Sage
- Thyme
- Lavender
Unbeknownst to many, marjoram is a member of the mint family, growing in many places with little water and a host of different soil types.
Although not picky regarding soil type, marjoram will do the best in well-draining, preferably sandy grounds, paired with lots of sunlight. Due to its flexibility and tidiness, it is also in the upper tiers of herbs when it comes to being grown indoors.
The Marjoram Factor
Obscure rather than outlandish to many in the herb world, marjoram is a practical plant for a few purposes. This soft-spoken herb can be cultivated and used in culinary fields and as decorations.
Greeks and Romans of yesteryear denoted this herb as a symbol of peace and happy times. While it may not become the star of your garden, marjoram is a humble, valuable asset within the realm of herbs.
Herbs to Keep Away From Marjoram
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Tarragon
- Parsley
- Moisture-loving herbs
Marjoram Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight is best (At least 6 hours)
Water: Once a week (about 1 inch per week)
Soil: Well-drained, light, sandy
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Joy Mountain, given this title by the Greeks, believed in nurturing love and marriage.
Oregano
Often introduced on a pizza, oregano is one of the most well-known herbs worldwide. Along with it, oregano harbors a host of medicinal and culinary purposes, many of which are more embedded into daily life than one may believe.
Herbs to Plant With Oregano
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Thyme
- Lavender
- Marjoram
Another member of the mint family, oregano, can be likened to the Swiss Army Knife of herbs; the purposes on and off the plate are virtually endless and practical.
As long as the soil is well-drained, oregano will grow without complaint; even in harsher conditions like rocky plains, oregano can thrive. If comforted with full sunlight, oregano is not picky about much and requires little water.
Oregano: Fit for Kitchen and Cabinet
In the form of oil, dried flakes, or straight from the branch, oregano spreads its influence across many plains.
In health, essential oregano oil is sometimes used as an antifungal and antioxidant agent, potentially fighting bacterial and yeast infections. Other medicinal ways oregano is utilized is through the application of oil to relieve headaches and painful ailments.
Herbs to Keep Away From Oregano
- Chives
- Cilantro
- Dill
- Moisture-loving herbs
Oregano Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight is best (At least 6 hours), although some shade is okay
Water: Sparingly (about 1 inch per week), only water when soil is dry to the touch
Soil: Well-drained, light, sandy
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Self-Diagnoser’s Dream; those who love home remedies will love experimenting with oregano and its uses.
Parsley
Clocking in at #9 on this list is parsley, the world’s most popular herb! This title of popularity is not backed without reason; parsley is one of the most nutritionally beneficial herbs out there, providing unique health boosts. Most prominently, parsley provides volatile oil components and flavonoids, which classify it as a chemoprotective food.
Herbs to Plant With Parsley
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Tarragon
- Chives
Parsley’s extensive capacity of vitamins and minerals, which promote a healthy body in countless ways, makes it a must in any herbal garden. As a sort of grandfather of herbs, parsley is a solid beginner herb and a staple in all sorts of gardens.
Fortunately, parsley is by no means picky when choosing companion herbs to bunk in with. As a Mediterranean herb, parsley thrives with full sun exposure and moist soil, making it a perfect companion for other big names, like basil and cilantro.
Parsley Perks
To fully appreciate the benefits that parsley brings to the table, one must acquire knowledge of its many health perks.
Parsley sprigs’ health benefits include the following:
- Functions as antioxidants
- Excellent source of Vitamin C
- Source of folic acid
- Protection against heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis
As an added benefit, consuming parsley at the closure of a meal has been proven to cleanse a palate, leaving a fresh taste.
Herbs to Keep Away From Parsley
- Lavender
- Fennel
- Sage
- Rosemary
- Other dry soil herbs
Parsley Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight (At least 6 hours) and partial sunlight are both sufficient
Water: 2-3 times a week; wilting is an indicator of dryness
Soil: Well-drained, moist
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Unsung Hero; often overlooked as simply a garnish, genuinely versatile and valuable herb
Rosemary
A beautiful, ornamental herb, rosemary is another example of an herb whose diverse uses are often overlooked. Besides its brilliant fragrance and outer beauty, rosemary is used for dishes, especially soups and oily fish.
Herbs to Plant With Rosemary
- Sage
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Lavender
- Marjoram
As a drier herb, rosemary is best suited to be companions with fellow herbs that prefer little water quantities and have excellent drainage.
Rosemary is especially susceptible to root rot, so before planting, be sure your soil empties well.
Rosemary Rundown
Rosemary is a staple in numerous meat and poultry dishes, although it harbors a fascinating side effect in sharpened memory.
Multiple studies have suggested rosemary as a memory-enhancing herb, at least in the oil form. Before you start snorting herbs, however, the plant’s aroma has been touted as instilling focus and memory.
Herbs to Keep Away From Rosemary
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Tarragon
- Chives
- Moisture-loving herbs
Rosemary Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight is best (At least 6 hours)
Water: Once every 2-4 weeks (based on climate), be careful not to overwater
Soil: Well-drained, light
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Good Influence; rubs off onto fingers, smells fresh and strong.
Sage
As the second herb in the title of Simon and Garfunkel’s hit album, sage is another quality garnish in various cuisines, often enjoyed when mixed with butter. Sage is not the most friendly herb in the garden, although it does have some common allies.
Herbs to Plant With Sage
- Rosemary
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Marjoram
Sage subsists as a best friend of rosemary, both maintaining similar needs in sunlight and soil quality. Sage is also very deep-rooted, with root systems growing up to 39 inches.
In terms of these needs, sage thrives best in medium to high levels of sun, average watering (once per week), and sandy, well-drained soil.
Herbs to Keep Away From Sage
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Tarragon
- Moisture-loving herbs
Sage Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Medium to full sunlight is best (At least 6 hours)
Water: Once every 1-2 weeks
Soil: Well-drained, light, sandy
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Traveler; sage has over 500 different varieties spread across the globe
Tarragon
A sunflower family member, tarragon is an herb adored by the French and native to Eurasia and North America. With a licorice-like taste, tarragon is distinct in both flavor and application.
Herbs to Plant With Tarragon
- Parsley
- Cilantro
- Basil
As a gentle herb in taste and touch, tarragon is a great herb to keep in the garden due to its natural bodily benefits and fragrant properties.
To grow tall and full, tarragon should be accompanied by full sunlight, will a steady supply of water every three days. In terms of soil, well-drained and light soil will yield the best crop.
Herbs to Keep Away From Tarragon
- Lavender
- Sage
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Dry-soiled plants
Tarragon Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight is best (At least 6 hours)
Water: Every three days or so
Soil: Well-drained, light, sandy
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Little Dragon; based on its historical name, tarragon has a hidden flair only brought out by cooking it correctly.
Thyme
As the final herb on this list, thyme represents both a closure and a fresh beginning; thyme is an everchanging, inevitable faction of human life, one that can be destroyed or cultivated based on our choices. When gardening with other herbs, thyme slides into the company of fellow dry, well-drained plants.
Herbs to Plant With Thyme
- Rosemary
- Oregano
- Sage
- Lavender
- Marjoram
Robust and hardy while retaining sharpness and explicit honesty, thyme is widely used in various cultures and regions.
It is best to plant thyme with herbs that enjoy full sun, little water, and well-drained soil. Thyme is drought-resistant, although this proposal should not be pushed for the sake of experimentation.
After all, “He who breaks a thing to see what it is has left the path of wisdom.”
Thyming of The Essence
As an immune booster and antioxidant-rich herb, thyme is an all-around Allstar in the herb game. Valued as an item of courage by the ancient Greeks, thyme might add a strut to your step if consumed consistently.
Herbs to Keep Away From Thyme
- Parsley
- Cilantro
- Basil
- Moisture-loving herbs
Thyme Basic Attributes
Sunlight: Full sunlight is best (At least 6 hours)
Water: Scarcely; thoroughly water only when soil is dry to the touch
Soil: Well-drained, dry
Maintenance/Upkeep: Low
Special Trait: Desert Snake; with drought-resistant qualities, thyme is resilient and tough to break down.
Conclusion
Whether planting an herb for the first time or adding a fifth plant to your pot, make sure you enjoy yourself, not stress over the result, and have fun on the ride there.
Keep in mind the three dictating factors in planting herbs together:
- Sunlight needs
- Water needs
- Soil needs
Good luck growing your herbs! They can make a big difference in how your meals taste when trying to become self-reliant and live off the food you’ve grown yourself.
