Herbs that Don't Grow Well Together: A Guide to Companion Planting

Oleh Anonymous November 24, 2022 Post a Comment

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When it comes to growing herbs, there are certain plants that just don't get along. Planting these incompatible herbs together can lead to stunted growth, poor yields, and even plant death. This is why companion planting is such an important practice for any herb gardener. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the most common herbs that don't grow well together, as well as some tips for successful companion planting.

Herbs That Don't Grow Well Together

Basil and Rue

Basil and rue are two herbs that should never be planted together. While basil is known for its delicious flavor and aroma, rue has a pungent scent that can actually inhibit the growth of nearby plants. If you want to grow both herbs in your garden, make sure to keep them far apart from each other.

Mint and Parsley

Mint is another herb that can be problematic when it comes to companion planting. It has a tendency to spread rapidly, which can crowd out other plants and make it difficult for them to grow. Parsley, on the other hand, has shallow roots and can easily be overtaken by more aggressive plants. Keep these two herbs separated if you want to avoid any problems.

Dill and Carrots

Dill and carrots might seem like a natural pairing, but they actually don't get along very well. Dill produces a chemical called carvone that can stunt the growth of nearby plants, including carrots. If you want to grow both of these plants in your garden, make sure to give them plenty of space.

Garlic and Beans

Garlic is a great herb for repelling pests, but it can also inhibit the growth of certain plants. When planted near beans, garlic can actually reduce their yield by up to 20%. If you're planning on growing beans in your garden, make sure to keep them away from any nearby garlic.

Rosemary and Sage

Rosemary and sage are two herbs that have a lot in common, but they don't always play well together. Both herbs prefer well-drained soil and lots of sunlight, but rosemary can actually stunt the growth of sage if they're planted too close together. Make sure to give each herb enough space to thrive.

Tips for Successful Companion Planting

Plant Complementary Herbs Together

One of the keys to successful companion planting is pairing herbs that complement each other. For example, basil and tomatoes are often planted together because the basil helps to repel pests that can damage the tomatoes.

Use Raised Beds

Raised beds are a great option for herb gardens because they allow you to control the soil quality and drainage. This is especially important when it comes to companion planting, as some herbs may not grow well in certain types of soil.

Rotate Your Crops

Rotating your crops is another important aspect of successful companion planting. This means planting different herbs in different areas of your garden each year, which can help to prevent soil-borne diseases and nutrient depletion.

Consider Plant Height

When planting herbs together, it's important to consider the height of each plant. Taller plants can shade out shorter plants, making it difficult for them to get enough sunlight. Make sure to plant taller herbs at the back of your garden and shorter herbs at the front.

FAQs

Q: Can I plant herbs with vegetables?

A: Yes! In fact, many herbs are great companions for vegetables. For example, basil is often planted with tomatoes, while dill is a good companion for cucumbers.