No kitchen garden would be quite complete without the addition of rosemary and with good reason. The aromatic herb has been used in culinary cooking, not to mention medicinal purposes, for centuries. Rosemary is quite easy to cultivate with a little bit of know how. The herb doesn’t require much fuss and can benefit many other plants in the garden with its pest resistant qualities. Companion plants for rosemary vary from its culinary sidekick oregano to carrots and pole beans too. In this blog post we will go the most beneficial plants to pot next to rosemary and we’ll even discuss a few you should stay away from so that you can use the power of companion planting for a healthy productive garden.
Key Takeaways
- Rosemary, a beloved evergreen herb, brings both culinary and medicinal benefits to the garden.
- Understanding rosemary’s preferences for well-drained soil and ample sunlight is crucial for successful cultivation.
- Companion planting with rosemary offers multiple advantages, including pest deterrence, biodiversity promotion, and year-round interest in the garden.
Helpful Items For Rosemary Companion Plants
What is Companion Planting?
Companion planting is the art and science of placing two plants in close proximity to one another creating an ideal growing environment for both plants. Let’s just say its a, “you scratch my back, I’ll scratch your back” kind of relationship. For example, most people know the power of marigolds planted next to tomatoes. Whether you’ve read it in an old gardening magazine or have been lucky enough to have a parent or grandparent share that information with you, tomato planters everywhere will pair the two together. What you may not know is that almost every plant or vegetable out there has a friend and foe that can determine its fate in the vegetable growing world. Knowing this, and understanding which plants do well together, opens up many opportunities to fight diseases and pests organically in the garden. Simply put, it will make your life a whole lot easier placing these plants together in a garden and save you a lot of headache in the long run.
Understanding Rosemary
Overview of Rosemary's Characteristics and Needs
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an evergreen herb that was originally found in the Mediterranean region. The herb pairs well with many dishes and as such is beloved my culinary enthusiasts throughout the world. It has a very distinct scent reminiscent of pine and citrus.
Rosemary grows best in warm climates but can adapt well if provided with adequate care. It prefers well draining soil and does not like too much moisture. Rosemary is a good candidate for container gardens as it does very well in pots. Regular pruning of the plant will encourage growth as well as enhance the production of oils, intensifying taste and aroma.
Benefits of Growing Rosemary in the Garden
There are many benefits to growing rosemary in the garden. First, it will absolutely elevate dishes prepared at home with its addition. Because the plant keeps its needles throughout the seasons, I often will step outside to grab a few sprigs when it’s called for. In addition, rosemary’s potent aroma is a fantastic pest deterrent. Crushing a few of the needles and rubbing it on bare skin can soothe attacks from backyard mosquitoes.
The Power of Companion Planting
Companion planting can help rosemary thrive in the garden. By creating a symbiotic relationship amongst your plants, you will be setting you garden up for a successful harvest with minimal need for spraying for pests and diseases.
- Pest Management: A vegetable garden is prone to attacks from pests and rosemary is no different. Pests such as aphids, whiteflies, spittlebugs, rosemary leaf beetles as well as leafhoppers can attack a rosemary plant creating a horticulture daydream into a nightmare. Companion planting lavender and sage can both help mitigate infestation and the need for chemical sprays to combat insect problems that may arise.
- Soil Health and Nutrient Exchange: Certain companion plants, such as legumes like beans and peas, are nitrogen-fixing plants that enrich the soil by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that is readily available to surrounding plants, including rosemary. This symbiotic relationship enhances soil fertility and promotes healthier growth for all plants involved.
- Complementary Growth Habits: Pairing rosemary with companion plants that have complementary growth habits can maximize the efficient use of garden space and resources. For example, trailing plants like nasturtiums or low-growing herbs such as thyme can help suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and provide living mulch around the base of rosemary plants, creating a microclimate that fosters optimal growth conditions.
By strategically selecting companion plants that complement rosemary’s characteristics and needs, gardeners can create a harmonious ecosystem that promotes overall garden health and enhances the vigor and vitality of their rosemary plants.
10 Ideal Companion Plants for Rosemary
Plants that Complement Rosemary's Growth Habits:
1. Thyme:
Thyme and rosemary are excellent partners to pair up with. Thyme grows in a similar environment to that of rosemary. They both require a lot of sun and well draining soil. Not only does this aromatic pair complement one another in the kitchen, but they help one another in the garden. Thyme repels aphids and whiteflies that might otherwise bother our rosemary plant. In addition, thymes growth pattern of spreading as it grows will help suppress any weeds that may grow at the base of rosemary.
2. Oregano:
Oregano, like rosemary, prefers well draining soil and full sun. The herb’s aroma does a good job of repelling pests that would otherwise bother rosemary. In addition, oregano’s growth pattern helps conserve soil moisture as well as provide ground cover for nearby plants.
3. Sage
Sage and rosemary share natural pest-repelling properties, helping to deter common garden pests and reduce the need for chemical interventions. Additionally, both herbs have been prized for their medicinal properties for centuries, with sage known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities, while rosemary is valued for its cognitive and memory-enhancing effects. By cultivating sage alongside rosemary, you not only create a visually pleasing garden but also establish a sustainable and beneficial ecosystem that supports both plant health and human well-being
4. Marigold:
Marigold is my go to plant for any companion planting endeavor. For one, they’re pretty and add a pop of color to an otherwise green landscape of herbs like rosemary. Secondly, marigold’s aroma will repel pests such as nematodes, aphids, and other such pests that would do damage to your rosemary plant.
Plants that Attract Beneficial Insects for Rosemary:
5. Lavender:
Lavender’s fragrant purple blooms not only complement the aesthetic appeal of rosemary but also attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, enhancing pollination for both plants. Additionally, both lavender and rosemary emit scents that repel pests like mosquitoes, moths, and aphids, fostering a healthier garden environment naturally. Their shared preference for sunny, well-drained soil and moderate watering needs makes them ideal companions.
6. Yarrow:
Yarrow has a long history as a common companion plant to herbs. Mostly based on old wive’s tales and anecdotal evidence, yarrow is said to enhance the growth of plants nearby. Yarrow also offers up an aesthetic element to herb gardening. Its tight knit, colorful blooms offer a visually appealing element to a garden. Lastly, yarrow is known to attract beneficial insects to a garden space. Insects like ladybugs will feast on nearby aphids that may try to infiltrate your plants.
7. Dill:
Dill’s tall, lanky growth habit not only complements the compact form of rosemary but also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and parasitic wasps, effectively controlling common garden pests without the need for chemical intervention. Furthermore, dill’s deep taproot system enhances soil health by breaking up compacted earth and improving drainage, creating an optimal growing environment for nearby rosemary plants. Visually, dill’s feathery foliage and delicate yellow flowers add charm and texture to the garden, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate the complementary flavors of dill and rosemary in various dishes, from salads to seafood, making them indispensable companions in both the garden and the kitchen.
Plants that Improve Soil Health and Nutrient Uptake for Rosemary
8. Borage:
Borage’s vibrant blue flowers not only provide a striking contrast to the foliage of rosemary but also serve as a magnet for beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the overall biodiversity of your garden. Furthermore, borage is known to improve soil health through its deep taproot system, which helps break up compacted soil and increase nutrient availability for neighboring rosemary plants. The cucumber-like flavor of borage leaves and flowers adds a refreshing culinary element to dishes and beverages, while its medicinal properties have been valued for centuries in herbal remedies.
9. Nasturtium:
Nasturtium are known as trap plants in garden spaces. Their ability to trap unwanted pests make them a formidable ally to rosemary. Their brightly colored flowers also add depth and beauty to rosemary’s green foliage. Beyond their pest-repelling properties, nasturtiums are edible plants with culinary and medicinal uses. Both their flowers and leaves are edible, adding a peppery flavor and vibrant color to salads, sandwiches, and other culinary creations. By interplanting nasturtiums with rosemary, you not only elevate the aesthetic appeal of your garden but also create a multifunctional and dynamic growing space that promotes biodiversity, enhances soil health, and provides culinary delights and natural remedies for you and your family.
10. Chamomile:
Chamomile is well know for its medicinal properties. Its small dainty flowers contain compounds that possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and calming properties. When planted alongside rosemary, chamomile can help deter pests and enhance the overall resilience of your garden. Furthermore, chamomile tea, brewed from the flowers, is a beloved herbal remedy known for its soothing effects on the digestive system and its ability to promote relaxation and sleep. By incorporating chamomile into your garden, you not only cultivate a beautiful landscape but also gain access to a natural remedy that supports both physical and emotional well-being.
How Do I Plan a Companion Planting Scheme for my Rosemary Garden?
There are many different schemes you can go with when planting rosemary. A good rule of thumb is to plant one rosemary plant per square footage of space. They do take up a lot of space. You can then plant companions around your plant. Below is an example a configuration you may choose for your planting endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions When Planting Rosemary Companion Plants
Why should I plant companion plants with my rosemary?
What are some examples of companion plants for rosemary?
How do companion plants help control pests in rosemary gardens?
Can I plant vegetables alongside my rosemary?
Can I use companion planting with rosemary in containers?
Final Thoughts
Rosemary is a wonderful addition to the home garden. It is easy to grow and is handy to have at a moment’s notice when certain culinary dishes call for it in their recipes. Making sure you give rosemary the proper companion in the garden will ensure you have a healthy harvest for years to come. Companion plants such as sage, thyme, oregano and others will be happy to accompany your rosemary for years of culinary service.
Let us know what you plan on growing this year. As always, Happy Growing!
