Combination Herbs to Always Cultivate Together for Optimal Growth Success
Spice up your meals and cultivate a lively herb garden with these perfect pairings that won't leave you high and dry. We've consulted expert green thumbs from across the gardening spectrum to guide you through the most rewarding herb garden collaborations.
- Luay Ghafari, the creative spirit behind Urban Farm and Kitchen and its delicious recipes
- Anna Ohler, owner of the boutique plant nursery Bright Lane Gardens tucked away in Lake Ann, Michigan
- Jen McDonald, a certified organic garden specialist and co-founder of Garden Girls, a top-notch service dedicated to crafting magnificent garden spaces
_10 Indoor and Outdoor Herb Garden Combinations That Ensure Delicious Basil, Parsley, and More## Mint and Lemon Balm**
Both hailing from the same mint family, these herbs have invasive tendencies, with their roots eager to claim dominance in your garden. Luay Ghafari, the genius behind Urban Farm and Kitchen, recommends growing them in separate pots or, if you have a spacious one, plant them together. He explains, "Keep them in pots so you can easily move them to a shaded area during heat waves. As they don't handle the sun well, you'll need to water them frequently."
Rosemary and Lavender**
These herbs have a lot in common, sharing the same taste preferences for full sun and infrequent watering. Jen McDonald, co-founder of Garden Girls, emphasizes, "These herbs pair well with raised garden beds or landscaping, as they're hardy and both do well in dry conditions."
Basil and Oregano**
Basil and oregano are a charming combination due to their contrasting heights - basil towering tall while oregano expands low and wide. Anna Ohler, proprietor of Bright Lane Gardens, notes, "These herbs will continue to grow new leaves throughout the season, ideal for regular harvesting. They thrive in full sun with well-draining soil, nestling comfortably in most central areas of your garden." Once the harvesting season concludes, Ohler encourages allowing both plants to bolt, resulting in lovely, delicate blooms to adorn your garden.
_9 Herbs That Should Always Be Grown near Basil for a Plentiful, Flavorful Harvest## Thyme and Sage**
Thyme and sage are great pals, thriving in the same dry, well-draining soil conditions. Luay Ghafari adds a breath of fresh insight: "These herbs are very drought-tolerant and have a knack for surviving in most zones. Plant them in a permanent spot to ensure they grow robustly year after year."
Dill and Cilantro**
Unite dill and cilantro, as they appreciate ample sunlight combined with well-draining soil. As these spectacular herbs draw pollinators, keep them close to tantalize nature's workers and deter troublesome pests.
Rosemary and Thyme**
Rosemary and thyme acclimate wonderfully to well-drained (or even dry) soil and bask in the embrace of full sun. Plant them along your garden's perimeter, as their potent scents help deter unwanted critters like rabbits and deer. Moreover, this pairing lends itself effortlessly to the kitchen, making their symbiotic presence a double win.
Basil and Parsley**
Basil and parsley are kindred spirits, requiring regular watering and thriving in partial to full sun. Luay Ghafari, the master gardener, says, "Given their annual habits, you can plant them anywhere, including containers, for a seasonal delight."
_How to Cultivate Parsley Both Indoors and Out, According to Gardening Experts## Thyme and Oregano**
Thyme and oregano are hardy herbs, boasting resilience against weather extremes. Jen McDonald, founder of Garden Girls, says, "Since both herbs enjoy a sprawling habit, they partner delightfully when planted in the edges of raised garden beds. Plus, feed those delighted chefs with easy access for speedy harvests!"
Basil and Chives**
Chives, a member of the onion family, lends its distinctive oniony scent to deter pesky aphids that are drawn to basil. Luay Ghafari, our inspiring gardener, encourages incorporating chives into your garden, while emphasizing, "Chives are perennial, so they will return annually. Be sure to find them a permanent place in your garden."
Chives and Parsley**
Like sibling rivals, chives and parsley have distinct contrasts - chives' preference for moist soil and partial shade, while parsley fawns over full sun. Place them together in a shaded area of your garden for a delightful ensemble. Anna Ohler, the green thumb, gushes, "Chives will be the early bird in your herb garden, providing you with something to nibble while parsley develops its first sets of delicate leaves."
- Luay Ghafari, the creator of Urban Farm and Kitchen, recommends growing mint and lemon balm in separate pots or in a spacious one, as they have invasive tendencies and don't handle the sun well.
- Jen McDonald, co-founder of Garden Girls, suggests planting rosemary and lavender together in raised garden beds or landscaping, as they are hardy and both do well in dry conditions.
- Anna Ohler, owner of Bright Lane Gardens, advises pairing basil and oregano due to their contrasting heights, as basil towers tall while oregano expands low and wide. They thrive in full sun with well-draining soil and will continue to grow new leaves throughout the season, ideal for regular harvesting.
