Bad Companion Plants for Lavender: What You Need to Know

Oleh Anonymous December 23, 2021 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

Lavender Companion Planting Basics

When it comes to companion planting, the goal is to find plants that will enhance the growth and health of your main crop. In the case of lavender, this means looking for plants that will promote soil health, deter pests, and complement its aromatic qualities.

However, not all plants make good companions for lavender. Some may compete for resources, attract harmful insects, or even inhibit lavender's growth. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the plants you should avoid planting alongside lavender.

The Worst Companion Plants for Lavender

Mint

While mint may seem like a natural companion for lavender due to its similar scent and attractive appearance, it can actually be quite detrimental to your lavender plants. Mint is known for its invasive nature, spreading quickly and aggressively through underground runners. This can cause it to crowd out lavender and other plants, leaving them with less space and nutrients to grow.

Basil

Like mint, basil can be a problematic companion for lavender due to its tendency to spread rapidly and compete for resources. Additionally, basil is known to attract certain pests, such as aphids and whiteflies, which can also harm lavender plants.

Thyme

While thyme may have some benefits as a companion plant for lavender, such as deterring certain pests, it should be used with caution. Thyme is known to have allelopathic properties, meaning it releases chemicals that can inhibit the growth of nearby plants. This can be particularly problematic when planted alongside lavender, which requires ample room and nutrients to thrive.

Marigolds

While marigolds are often recommended as a natural pest deterrent in the garden, they can actually attract harmful insects when planted alongside lavender. Marigolds are known to attract spider mites and other pests that can damage lavender plants, so it's best to avoid planting them together.

Tomatoes

While tomatoes and lavender may seem like an unlikely pairing, some gardeners have attempted to grow them together due to their shared need for well-draining soil and ample sunlight. However, this is generally not recommended, as tomatoes are heavy feeders that require a lot of nutrients, which can leave little for the lavender plant. Additionally, tomatoes are known to attract certain pests, such as whiteflies and hornworms, which can also harm lavender.

Other Considerations for Lavender Companion Planting

Companion Plants That Can Benefit Lavender

While there are certainly some plants that should be avoided when companion planting with lavender, there are also many that can be beneficial. For example, plants like rosemary, sage, and oregano can help deter pests and improve soil health, while also complementing lavender's scent and appearance.

Spacing and Placement

When planting lavender and its companion plants, it's important to consider spacing and placement carefully. Lavender requires plenty of space to grow and spread its roots, so it's best to avoid crowding it with other plants. Additionally, some plants, like thyme and mint, should be planted at a distance from lavender to avoid inhibiting its growth.

Soil pH and Nutrient Needs

When selecting companion plants for lavender, it's important to consider their soil pH and nutrient needs. Lavender prefers well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH, so plants with similar preferences, like rosemary and oregano, are good choices. Conversely, plants that require more acidic soil, like blueberries, should be avoided.

FAQs

Q: Can lavender be planted with other herbs?

A: Yes, many herbs make great companion plants for lavender, including rosemary, sage, and oregano.

Q: What about planting lavender with flowers?

A: While some flowers can be beneficial for lavender, it's important to choose carefully. Avoid planting lavender with marigolds, which can attract harmful insects, and stick to flowers that have similar soil and watering needs.

Q: Can lavender be planted near vegetables?

A: It depends on the vegetable. Lavender can be planted near some vegetables, such as peppers and eggplants, but should be kept away from heavy feeders like tomatoes and squash.

Q: Is it okay to plant lavender in containers with other plants?

A: Yes, lavender can be grown in containers with other plants, but it's important to choose companion plants that have similar soil and watering needs.