The Best Rose Bush Companion Plants for a Stunning Garden

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Rose Bush Companion Plants:

When it comes to gardening, companion planting is an essential aspect to consider. Companion planting involves growing different plants together that are mutually beneficial for each other. The practice of companion planting rose bushes with other plants can benefit both the roses and the surrounding plants.

Why Use Rose Bush Companion Plants?

Companion planting of roses with other plants can help in various ways. Firstly, it helps in attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. Secondly, companion plants can provide shade, shelter, and support to your rose bushes. Thirdly, they can act as natural repellents, keeping pests and diseases at bay. Lastly, companion planting can add color and variety to your garden.

15 Best Rose Bush Companion Plants

1. Lavender

Lavender is one of the best companion plants for rose bushes. Not only does it attract bees and butterflies, but it also acts as a natural pest repellent. Additionally, lavender's aroma has a calming effect on the mind and body, making it an ideal plant for relaxation.

How to plant Lavender with Roses

Plant lavender near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the lavender will waft over the roses. Be sure not to plant lavender too close to the roses, as it can compete for nutrients.

2. Geraniums

Geraniums are another excellent companion plant for roses. They are low-maintenance and come in a wide range of colors, adding a pop of color to your garden. Moreover, they help repel pests and attract beneficial insects like ladybugs.

How to plant Geraniums with Roses

Plant geraniums around the base of your rose bushes. They thrive in well-drained soil, so make sure to water them regularly.

3. Catmint

Catmint is a hardy perennial that adds beauty and fragrance to your garden. It attracts bees and other pollinators, making it an excellent companion plant for roses. Moreover, catmint's strong scent helps in repelling aphids, spider mites, and other pests.

How to plant Catmint with Roses

Plant catmint near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the catmint will waft over the roses. Be sure not to plant catmint too close to the roses, as it can compete for nutrients.

4. Salvia

Salvia is another great companion plant for roses. It has beautiful purple flowers that add color and depth to your garden. Furthermore, salvia's nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds and bees, making it an excellent pollinator plant.

How to plant Salvia with Roses

Plant salvia near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the salvia will waft over the roses. Salvia prefers well-drained soil, so make sure to water it regularly.

5. Marigold

Marigolds are one of the most popular companion plants for roses. They come in various colors and sizes, and their pungent smell repels aphids, whiteflies, and other pests. Additionally, marigolds attract ladybugs, which feed on aphids.

How to plant Marigolds with Roses

Plant marigolds around the base of your rose bushes. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to water them regularly.

6. Daylilies

Daylilies are another excellent companion plant for roses. They have beautiful blooms that add color and texture to your garden. Moreover, daylilies attract butterflies and hummingbirds, making them an ideal pollinator plant.

How to plant Daylilies with Roses

Plant daylilies around the base of your rose bushes. They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade, so make sure to water them regularly.

7. Yarrow

Yarrow is a hardy perennial that adds beauty and fragrance to your garden. Its flowers come in various colors and attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. Furthermore, yarrow's strong scent helps in repelling pests like aphids and spider mites.

How to plant Yarrow with Roses

Plant yarrow near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the yarrow will waft over the roses. Yarrow prefers well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to water it regularly.

8. Alliums

Alliums are a beautiful addition to any garden. Their tall stems and spherical blooms add height and texture to your garden. Additionally, alliums attract beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and ladybugs.

How to plant Alliums with Roses

Plant alliums near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the alliums will waft over the roses. Alliums prefer well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to water them regularly.

9. Sage

Sage is a herb that adds both beauty and function to your garden. It has beautiful purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Additionally, sage's strong scent repels pests like mosquitoes, ticks, and moths.

How to plant Sage with Roses

Plant sage near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the sage will waft over the roses. Sage prefers well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to water it regularly.

10. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are an excellent companion plant for roses. They have beautiful blooms that come in various colors and attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. Furthermore, nasturtiums act as a trap crop, attracting pests like aphids away from your rose bushes.

How to plant Nasturtiums with Roses

Plant nasturtiums around the base of your rose bushes. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to water them regularly.

11. Foxgloves

Foxgloves are another great companion plant for roses. They have tall spikes of beautiful bell-shaped flowers that add height and texture to your garden. Moreover, foxgloves attract hummingbirds and bees, making them an ideal pollinator plant.

How to plant Foxgloves with Roses

Plant foxgloves near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the foxgloves will waft over the roses. Foxgloves prefer well-drained soil and partial shade, so make sure to water them regularly.

12. Echinacea

Echinacea, also known as coneflowers, is a hardy perennial that adds beauty and fragrance to your garden. Its flowers come in various colors and attract beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and ladybugs. Furthermore, echinacea's strong scent helps in repelling pests like mosquitoes and other biting insects.

How to plant Echinacea with Roses

Plant echinacea near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the echinacea will waft over the roses. Echinacea prefers well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to water it regularly.

13. Chives

Chives are a herb that adds beauty and function to your garden. They have beautiful purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Additionally, chives' strong scent repels pests like aphids and spider mites.

How to plant Chives with Roses

Plant chives near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the chives will waft over the roses. Chives prefer well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to water them regularly.

14. Calendula

Calendula is another excellent companion plant for roses. It has beautiful yellow or orange flowers that add color and depth to your garden. Moreover, calendula attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

How to plant Calendula with Roses

Plant calendula around the base of your rose bushes. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to water them regularly.

15. Dianthus

Dianthus, also known as pinks, is a hardy perennial that adds beauty and fragrance to your garden. Its small flowers come in various colors and attract beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and ladybugs. Furthermore, dianthus' strong scent helps in repelling pests like aphids and spider mites.

How to plant Dianthus with Roses

Plant dianthus near your rose bushes, preferably downwind, so the scent from the dianthus will waft over the roses. Dianthus prefers well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to water it regularly.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Rose Bush Companion Plants

1. Can I plant vegetables with my rose bushes?

Yes, you can plant vegetables with your rose bushes. Some vegetables that are good companion plants for roses include tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans.

2. Should I use chemical pesticides in my rose garden?

No, you should avoid using chemical pesticides in your rose garden as they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators. Instead, try using organic pest control methods like neem oil, soap sprays, or diatomaceous earth.

3. How often should I water my rose bushes and their companion plants?

Rose bushes and their companion plants prefer well-drained soil, so make sure to water them regularly. Watering once a week is usually sufficient, but it depends on the climate and soil conditions.

4. Can I plant annuals with my rose bushes?

Yes, you can plant annuals with your rose bushes. Some annuals that are good companion plants for roses include petunias, zinnias, and marigolds.

5. How do I know which companion plants are suitable for my rose bushes?

Research the specific needs of your rose bushes and choose companion plants that have similar growing conditions. Additionally, consider the benefits that each companion plant provides, such as pest control or pollination.


Companion planting is an excellent way to enhance the beauty and functionality of your garden. By choosing the right companion plants for your rose bushes, you can attract pollinators, repel pests, and add color and texture to your garden. Consider planting some of the best rose bush companion plants mentioned above for a stunning and healthy garden.

Great! To off, let's talk about some companion plants that are great to plant alongside rose bushes. One popular option is lavender, which not only looks beautiful but also repels pests that could potentially harm the roses. Another great option is catmint, which attracts pollinators that can help the roses thrive. Additionally, planting herbs like thyme or oregano can help keep soil healthy and prevent disease.

Are there any specific types of roses or growing conditions you'd like me to keep in mind as we continue? Alright, let's keep going! Another great companion plant for rose bushes is the yarrow plant. Yarrow has a deep root system that can help break up hard soil and improve drainage, which is important for roses. Plus, yarrow attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pests that may harm your roses.

Another option to consider is planting peonies alongside your rose bushes. Peonies bloom early in the season and can provide a beautiful contrast to the later-blooming roses. They also have an extensive root system, which can help improve soil health and prevent erosion.

Finally, you might want to consider planting annuals like marigolds or zinnias in between your roses. These brightly colored flowers can add a pop of color to your garden while also attracting pollinators.

Do any of these options sound particularly appealing to you? Or do you have any other questions I can help with?

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