Lemon balm, also known by its scientific name Melissa officinalis, is a herb that is highly valued for its aromatic and medicinal properties. Native to the Mediterranean region, lemon balm has been used for centuries in various traditional medicine systems for its calming effects and ability to promote relaxation. Its leaves, when crushed, emit a delightful lemon fragrance, making it a popular choice for both culinary and therapeutic purposes. However, while lemon balm is a versatile and beneficial plant to have in your garden, there are certain plants that should not be planted alongside it. This article aims to shed light on what not to plant with lemon balm, so you can ensure the optimum growth and health of this remarkable herb.
key Takeaways
- Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is a versatile herb that can be beneficial for relaxation, digestion, and even repelling insects.
- While lemon balm is a great addition to any garden, it is important to be cautious about the plants you choose to grow alongside it.
- Lemon balm can easily take over a garden, so it is best to avoid planting it near plants that are sensitive to its aggressive growth.
- Avoid planting lemon balm near other herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme as they may struggle to compete with its rapid spreading.
- Lemon balm can also inhibit the growth of tomatoes, cucumbers, and other vegetable plants, so it is best to keep them separated.
- On the other hand, lemon balm can be a great companion for certain plants like roses, as it helps repel aphids and attracts beneficial pollinators.
- If you want to grow lemon balm alongside other plants, consider planting it in containers or using barriers to prevent its spreading.
- Remember to give lemon balm plenty of space to thrive and consider its growth habits when planning your garden layout.
- By being mindful of lemon balm’s characteristics and choosing appropriate companion plants, you can create a harmonious and productive garden.
What Plants Should Not Be Planted With Lemon Balm?
1. Invasive Plants
Invasive plants are those species that are not native to a particular ecosystem and have the ability to spread rapidly, outcompeting other plants for resources. When planting lemon balm, it is crucial to avoid planting it alongside invasive plants as they can overpower and crowd out the lemon balm. Examples of invasive plants to avoid planting with lemon balm include Japanese knotweed, English ivy, and purple loosestrife.
2. Aggressive Herbs
Aggressive herbs are plants that tend to grow vigorously and have a strong tendency to spread, potentially overwhelming the lemon balm. Avoid planting aggressive herbs alongside lemon balm to prevent them from overtaking it. Examples of aggressive herbs that should not be planted with lemon balm include mint, oregano, and comfrey.
3. Heavy Feeders
Heavy feeder plants are those that require high levels of nutrients from the soil. Planting heavy feeders alongside lemon balm can deplete the soil of essential nutrients, affecting the growth and health of lemon balm. It is best to avoid planting heavy feeders near lemon balm to ensure its well-being. Examples of heavy feeders that should not be planted with lemon balm include tomatoes, corn, and cabbage.
4. Shade-Loving Plants
Lemon balm thrives in full sun or partial shade. Avoid planting shade-loving plants near lemon balm, as they can obstruct sunlight and shade the lemon balm, affecting its growth. It is essential to provide lemon balm with the appropriate amount of sunlight to ensure its optimal development. Examples of shade-loving plants that should not be planted with lemon balm include ferns, hostas, and impatiens.
5. Plants Susceptible to Disease
Some plants are more prone to certain diseases, and planting them near lemon balm can increase the risk of disease transmission. To protect the health of lemon balm, avoid planting plants that are susceptible to diseases in its proximity. Examples of plants susceptible to diseases that should not be planted with lemon balm include roses, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
What are some plants that should not be planted with Lemon Balm?
There are several plants that should not be planted with Lemon Balm due to their conflicting growth patterns or detrimental effects on each other. These include:
1. Mint
Lemon Balm and Mint are both members of the mint family and have similar growth habits. When planted together, they may compete for nutrients and space, leading to stunted growth for both plants. It is advisable to keep them separate to allow each plant to thrive.
2. Tomatoes
Tomatoes and Lemon Balm may not be the best planting companions as Lemon Balm can attract pests like aphids, which may also affect tomato plants. Additionally, Lemon Balm can spread vigorously and may overpower the growth of tomato plants, reducing their yield. It is better to keep these plants at a distance from each other.
3. Cabbage
Cabbage and Lemon Balm should not be planted in close proximity as Lemon Balm emits a strong aroma that can attract cabbage pests, such as cabbage moths. These pests may lay their eggs on cabbage leaves, leading to damage and reduced crop yield. To avoid such issues, it is recommended to keep these plants separated.
What are the plants that pair well with Lemon Balm?
While there are certain plants that should not be planted with Lemon Balm, there are several others that make great companions. Some plants that pair well with Lemon Balm include:
1. Bee Balm
Bee Balm and Lemon Balm are close relatives and share similar growth habits. Planting them together can create a visually striking and aromatic display in the garden. Both plants attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a perfect combination for supporting pollinator populations.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile and Lemon Balm complement each other well in terms of their growth patterns and care requirements. They both prefer similar soil conditions and can create a soothing and fragrant corner in the garden. Additionally, both herbs have calming properties and can be used together to make relaxing herbal teas.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, it is important to consider the compatibility of plants when planning a garden. Lemon Balm has certain plants that should not be planted with it, such as Mint, Tomatoes, and Cabbage. These plants can compete with Lemon Balm for resources or attract pests that may harm it. On the other hand, Lemon Balm pairs well with plants like Bee Balm and Chamomile, creating aesthetically pleasing combinations and supporting pollinators. By choosing companion plants wisely, gardeners can promote healthy growth and maximize the benefits of Lemon Balm in their gardens.