What plants should not be planted near an herb garden?

Hey there! Thanks for reaching out with your question about what plants should not be planted near an herb garden. It's important to choose your garden companions wisely to ensure the health and productivity of your herbs. Let's dive in!

First off, there are a few plants that you should avoid planting near your herb garden. These plants can either compete for resources, attract pests, or inhibit the growth of your herbs. Here are some common culprits:

1. Mint: While mint is a fantastic herb to have in your garden, it's best to keep it in a separate container or designated area. Mint is known for its invasive nature and can quickly take over your herb garden if planted directly in the ground. Trust me, you don't want to spend your time battling mint to save your other herbs!

2. Dill: Dill is a wonderful herb that attracts beneficial insects like butterflies and bees. However, it can also attract unwanted pests like aphids and spider mites. To prevent these pests from spreading to your other herbs, it's best to keep dill at a distance.

3. Fennel: Fennel is another herb that attracts beneficial insects, but it can be a bit of a bully in the garden. It releases chemicals that inhibit the growth of nearby plants, including some herbs. So, it's best to keep fennel away from your herb garden to avoid stunting the growth of your other herbs.

4. Rue: Rue is a beautiful herb with a strong aroma, but it can be toxic to some plants. It releases chemicals that can inhibit the growth of nearby plants, so it's best to keep it away from your herb garden.

5. Sunflowers: While sunflowers are stunning and attract pollinators, they can cast a large shadow over your herb garden. This can prevent your herbs from getting the sunlight they need to thrive. So, it's best to plant sunflowers in a separate area, away from your herbs.

Remember, these are just a few examples of plants that may not be the best companions for your herb garden. It's always a good idea to do some research or consult a companion planting chart for a more comprehensive list of plants to avoid.

On the flip side, there are plenty of plants that make great companions for your herbs! For example, basil and parsley are known to enhance the flavor and growth of many herbs. So, don't be afraid to experiment and find the perfect companions for your herb garden.

I hope this helps you make informed decisions when planning your herb garden. Happy planting!

Hadley Jenkins

gardening, hiking, birdwatching

Hadley is an experienced horticulturist with a gardening career spanning over two decades. She holds a deep interest in companion planting and continuously indulges in exploring new plant pairings. When not immersing herself in the world of botany, Hadley can be found enjoying nature trails and indulging in birdwatching.