Companion planting might be just what you need to help your basil plants grow. Basil which is also called great basil is a culinary herb that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is a tender plant and used in cuisines worldwide. This plant happens to be one of the most popular herbs to plant and also easy to grow but planting it with the wrong plant can hinder its growth instead.
Basil is a warm-weather plant and if you do have space in your garden, they can be planted as a companion plant to help attract beneficial insects for your other crops.
There are so many benefits associated with companion planting. It will either help a specific crop grow better beside another crop or do many support jobs in the garden. Basil plants need protection just like every other plant and this article contains some of the best plants to grow with it.
Table of Contents
10 Best Plants to Grow With Basil
Basil plants not only require protection but protects several other crops by simultaneously attracting pollinators and also help to deter destructive insects like beetles and worms from feeding on the leaves, flowers, and fruits. Here are 10 common plants that benefit as companion plants to grow with Basil.
| BEST PLANTS TO GROW WITH BASIL | WHAT NOT TO GROW WITH BASIL |
|---|---|
| 1. Borage | 1. Cucumbers |
| 2. Chamomile | 2. Fennel |
| 3. Peppers | 3. Sage And Other Herbs |
| 4. Rosemary | |
| 5. Marigold | |
| 6. Asparagus | |
| 7. Chives | |
| 8. Tomatoes | |
| 9. Oregano | |
| 10. Root Vegetables |
1. Borage
Borage and basil are two plants that work well together. Borage repels the asparagus insects and it also works to generally repel insects that might be of harm to basil. Not only will borage improve the growth and flavor of basil but it also makes it look attractive on a salad or summer gazpachos. Borage is known to extract nutrients from the soil and spread them across to its companion plant.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile is an annual plant and it has two main varieties which are German and Roman. Any of the chamomile variety can be safely planted next to basil. If you can. it’s best to go for Roman chamomile, it requires less maintenance than its counterpart.
Chamomile is not just effective in the garden as a pest deterrent but also makes basil more flavorful in a culinary application.
3. Peppers
Basil and pepper are undoubtedly good companion plants. Both repel garden effects and provide dense ground cover. There are also claims that basil planted next to pepper boosts their flavour. While basil works to trap heat and moisture, pepper prefers humidity.
4. Rosemary
Rosemary is another beneficial plant to have near holy basil. All varieties of rosemary plants do well as companion planting to basil. Basil flourishes in rich well-drained soil with plenty of moisture.
While rosemary, a shrubby Mediterranean plant that also thrives in well-drained soil. The best way to handle growing the two species nearby is to grow in one container.
5. Marigolds
Marigold companion planting with basil enhances its flavor and growth. Marigold can also be a great companion plant to cucumbers, broccoli, kale, potatoes, squash, tomatoes, gourds, and eggplants. Marigold help deters beetles so have them planted near your basil to double up on a potent aromatic shield.
6. Asparagus
The list of companion plants for basil won’t be complete without having asparagus on it. The combination of these two plants appeals to ladybugs which help control the presence of pests such as aphids in the garden. Basil in turn helps deter asparagus beetles which feed on the tinder tips of new asparagus shoots.
7. Chives
When it comes to other green vegetables that make great companion planting to basil, chives will be a great option. Chives and basil both enjoy that isn’t too dry or too sandy and both have similar growing requirements.
8. Tomatoes
Tomatoes and basil are companions both on and off the plate. Basil helps repel insects specifically hornworms and flies. When planted together, both can help increase each other’s yield.
9. Oregano
Oregano is a low maintainace plant to grow but it can help increase the strength of essential oils in your herb garden. It can flourish when planted near basil and it also helps repel harmful insects.
10. Root Vegetables
Wondering what vegetables to plant with basil? The leafy green top of parsnips, carrots, turnips, radishes, and beets are perfect companion plants to basil. These root vegetables all benefit from the pest repelling aroma of a basil plant nearby.
Plants To Avoid Growing Near Basil
Although basil is one of the easiest plants to grow and it does well as companion planting with lots of plants but there are also plants you should avoid planting next to it.
1. Cucumbers
Basil and cucumber companion planting is definitely a no. Planting cucumbers near aromatic herbs can affect the taste of your cucumber and some farmers also claim it causes reduced cucumber yields. So, it’s best to have them planted away from each other.
2. Fennel
Fennel is not a companion plant for any garden food hence keep it far away from your basil. It is a garden crop that doesn’t grow well with other vegetables. Fennel can help attract beneficial insects but it can also inhibit growth in basil or even killing them completely.
3. Herbs
Basil generally prefers the company of vegetables to that of herbs like itself. Basil should not be planted near herbs such as rue or sage. However, they can be planted with rosemary but better to keep them in separate pots as basil needs more water than rosemary.
Basil Companion Plants FAQ
Does basil need full sun?
Basil tends to thrive in warm temperatures and full morning sun. However, if you live in an area with scorching midday sun, you should provide shade for your basil plant.
What can you spray on basil to keep bugs away?
Spraying your basil with Neem, or insecticidal soap help keep bugs away. Neem spray is the viable option for keeping beetles, aphids, whiteflies, and thrips away from basil.
Can you plant basil in the ground?
Basil can be planted in the ground but it’s super sensitive to cold hence you should watch the early spring temperature and cover if required.
Is Basil easy to grow?
Basil is easy to grow but not also the easiest herb to grow either. It only grows outdoor in the summer and only when the soil has warmed up nicely. Basil grows extremely quickly with the right growing method and maintenance.
Is Epsom salt good for basil plants?
Epsom salt can help basil grow well but the flavor might get compromised in the process. Epsom salt will make sure your herb has enough magnesium and sulfur to stay healthy but best mixed with water when used on basil.
Wrapping Up
Holy basil is a fast-growing herb that has its popularity spread across continents.
Just like every plant, companion planting can help it thrive. Basil is a great companion plant to wide varieties of plants and herbs however to stay on the safe side and keep your herb healthy. Above are the things you should know.
Read next: The Best Companion Plants For Kale
