What To Plant Near Rosemary 

Rosemary is a fragrant and versatile herb that not only adds taste to our culinary creations but also offers numerous health benefits. Known for its distinctive aroma and needle-like leaves, rosemary has long been treasured in herb gardens. While planting and caring for rosemary might seem straightforward, an important consideration is selecting suitable plants to accompany this resilient herb. Choosing the right companions for rosemary can enhance its growth, improve its flavor, and even deter pests. In this article, we will explore the ideal plants to cultivate near rosemary, highlighting their beneficial qualities and the advantages they bring to an herb garden.

key Takeaways

Plants that have similar soil, water, and sun requirements as rosemary, such as lavenders and thymes, can be planted near rosemary to create a visually stunning herb garden.

Companion plants like sage and oregano can help deter pests and attract beneficial insects, making them great choices to grow alongside rosemary.

Avoid planting vegetables like beans, carrots, and cabbage near rosemary as they have different soil and water requirements, and may also compete for nutrients.

Flowering plants that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, such as marigolds and calendulas, can be interspersed with rosemary to create a vibrant and thriving garden.

Keeping in mind the growth habits of the plants is crucial when planning the layout. Tall plants like tomatoes or corn can shade out rosemary, so it’s best to plant them at a distance.

Annuals like basil, parsley, and cilantro can be planted near rosemary for their culinary benefits while also adding visual interest to the herb garden.

Consider the overall aesthetics and colors of the plants when choosing companions for rosemary. Planting contrasting colors, like purple lavender alongside the green rosemary, creates a visually appealing display.

What plants can be grown near rosemary?

Companion Plants for Rosemary

Companion plants are those that grow well together and provide mutual benefits. When it comes to planting near rosemary, several options can enhance its growth and deter pests.

Beneficial Plants to Grow Near Rosemary

Some plants are beneficial when grown near rosemary as they can attract pollinators, provide shade, and repel harmful insects. These plants include:

• Lavender: Known for its calming fragrance, lavender is a great companion for rosemary as it attracts bees and other pollinators.
• Thyme: Another member of the mint family like rosemary, thyme complements its flavor and deters cabbage worms and carrot flies.
• Oregano: With similar growth requirements as rosemary, oregano can improve its taste and repel pests such as aphids and spider mites.
• Sage: Sage is not only a delicious herb but also an effective pest repellent that can protect rosemary from pests like cabbage loopers and carrot rust flies.
• Basil: Planting basil near rosemary promotes its growth and improves its flavor, while also deterring mosquitoes and flies.
• Rue: Rue is an herb that can protect rosemary from various pests and insects, such as beetles and aphids.
• Marigold: Marigolds have strong-scented flowers that repel pests and attract beneficial insects, making them an excellent companion for rosemary.

Plants to Avoid Growing Near Rosemary

While certain plants can be beneficial for rosemary, others may hinder its growth or attract pests. It is best to avoid planting the following near rosemary:

• Broadleaf Plants: Plants like tomatoes and peppers, which have broad leaves, can compete with rosemary for sunlight and nutrients.
• Vines: Fast-growing vines such as grapes and cucumbers can engulf rosemary, restricting its growth and access to sunlight.
• Wetland Plants: Plants with high water requirements, such as watercress and water-loving vegetables, should not be planted near rosemary to prevent excessive moisture in the soil.

By selecting the right companion plants and avoiding those that may hinder rosemary’s growth, you can create a harmonious and thriving herb garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some appropriate companion plants for rosemary?

Some suitable companion plants for rosemary include thyme, sage, lavender, and oregano. These herbs not only complement the fragrance of rosemary but also have similar growing requirements, making them great choices to plant together.

Can I plant vegetables near rosemary?

Absolutely! Rosemary can be beneficial for certain vegetables when planted nearby. It helps repel pests like carrot rust flies, bean beetles, and cabbage moths. Some excellent vegetables to plant near rosemary include beans, cabbage, carrots, and peppers.

Can I grow flowers alongside rosemary?

Yes, you can! There are several flowering plants that make wonderful companions for rosemary. Some popular choices include marigolds, yarrow, geraniums, and roses. These flowers not only add vibrant colors to your garden but can also help attract beneficial insects that aid in pollination and ward off pests.

Are there any plants that should not be planted near rosemary?

While rosemary is generally a vigorous plant that can coexist well with many other herbs and vegetables, there are a few plants that are not suitable for planting alongside rosemary. These include basil, cucumbers, and potatoes, as they can compete for resources or be affected by the strong scent of rosemary.

Can I grow rosemary near other shrubs or trees?

Yes, rosemary can be planted near other shrubs or trees, as long as they don’t require excessive watering or shade. Rosemary prefers well-drained soil and full sun, so it’s important to choose companion plants that have similar requirements. Some compatible options include juniper, lavender, and dwarf citrus trees.

Companion Planting Options for a Bountiful Garden

Flowers

Adding flowers to your garden not only enhances its visual appeal but also provides numerous benefits. Some popular flower options include:

• Marigolds: These colorful blooms help repel pests and attract beneficial insects like ladybugs.
• Yarrow: This drought-tolerant flower attracts predatory wasps that control garden pests.
• Geraniums: Their strong scents help repel insects like mosquitoes and cabbage worms.
• Roses: These elegant flowers attract pollinators and repel aphids.

Herbs

Planting herbs alongside your rosemary not only creates a visually appealing herb garden but also offers practical benefits. Some great herb options to consider are:

• Thyme: This herb complements the fragrance of rosemary and helps repel cabbage loopers and cabbage worms.
• Sage: Producing beautiful purple flowers, sage attracts pollinators and deters pests like cabbage moths.
• Lavender: Like rosemary, lavender prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Its soothing fragrance attracts bees and other beneficial pollinators.
• Oregano: Growing oregano near rosemary can improve its flavor while also deterring pests.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, planting suitable companion plants for rosemary can enhance the overall health and productivity of your garden. Remember to choose plants that have similar growing requirements and benefit each other. Flowers like marigolds and roses attract pollinators and deter pests, while herbs like thyme and sage complement rosemary’s fragrance and repel unwanted insects. By carefully selecting companion plants, you can create a harmonious and thriving garden.

So, whether you are aiming for a stunning herb garden or looking to improve the yield of your vegetables, consider the various options available for companion planting with rosemary. This approach not only adds beauty to your garden but also fosters a beneficial ecosystem where plants work together to repel pests, attract pollinators, and thrive in harmony.