Companion planting may be just what you need to grow your basil plants. Basil, also known as tall basil, is a culinary herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is a tender plant and is used in cuisines all over the world. This plant happens to be one of the most popular herbs to plant and is also easy to grow, but planting it with the wrong plant can stunt its growth.
Basil is a warm weather plant and if you have room in your garden it can be planted as a companion plant to attract beneficial insects to your other crops.
There are so many benefits associated with planting pets. It will help a specific crop grow better with another crop or perform many supporting tasks in the garden. Basil plants need protection just like any other plant and this article lists some of the best plants to grow with them.
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10 Best Plants To Grow With Basil
In addition to needing protection, basil plants protect several other crops by attracting pollinators while helping to deter destructive insects, such as beetles and worms, from feeding on leaves, flowers and fruit. Here are 10 common plants that benefit as companion plants to grow with basil.
| 1. borage | 1. Cucumbers |
| 2. chamomile | 2. Fennel |
| 3. peppers | 3. Sage and other herbs |
| 4. Rosemary | |
| 5.calendula | |
| 6. Asparagus | |
| 7. Chives | |
| 8. Tomatoes | |
| 9. Oregano | |
| 10. Root Vegetables |
1. borage
Borage and basil are two herbs that go well together. Borage repels insects on asparagus and usually also works to repel insects that may be harmful to basil. Borage not only enhances the growth and flavor of basil, but also makes it attractive in a summer salad or gazpacho. Borage is known to draw nutrients from the soil and distribute them to the associated plant.
2. chamomile
Chamomile is an annual plant and has two main varieties: German and Roman. All varieties of chamomile can be safely planted next to basil. Whether you can. It is better to opt for Roman chamomile, it requires less maintenance than its counterpart.
Chamomile is not only effective in the garden as a pest control, it also makes basil more palatable in a culinary application.
3. peppers
Basil and pepper are unquestionably good companion plants. Both repel the effects of the garden and provide dense ground cover. It is also claimed that basil planted alongside the pepper enhances its flavor. While basil retains heat and moisture, pepper prefers moisture.
4. Rosemary
Image: Envato ElementsRosemary is another beneficial plant to have almost holy basil. All types of rosemary plants work well as companion plants for basil. Basil thrives in rich, well-drained soil with plenty of moisture.
While rosemary, a shrubby Mediterranean plant that also thrives in well-drained soil. The best way to grow both species in close proximity is to grow them in a container.
5. Worries
Side plantings of calendula with basil enhance flavor and growth. Calendula can also be a great companion for cucumbers, broccoli, kale, potatoes, squash, tomatoes, squash, and eggplant. Marigolds help deter beetles, so plant them near basil to double its powerful aromatic shield.
6. Asparagus
The list of basil companion plants is not complete without asparagus. The combination of these two plants attracts ladybugs, which help to control the presence of pests such as aphids in the garden. Basil, in turn, helps deter asparagus beetles that feed on the tinder tips of new asparagus shoots.
7. Chives
As for other green vegetables that are a great addition to basil, green onions are a great option. Chives and basil like not to be too dry or too grainy and both have similar growing requirements.
8. Tomatoes
Image: Envato ElementsTomatoes and basil are companions both on and off the plate. Basil helps repel insects, especially hornworms and flies. When planted together, the two can help boost each other’s yield.
9. Oregano
Oregano is a low-maintenance herb, but it can help boost the potency of essential oils in your herb garden. It can thrive if planted near basil and also helps repel pests.
10. Root Vegetables
Wondering what vegetables to plant with basil? The green leaves of parsnips, carrots, turnips, radishes and beets are perfect companion plants for basil. All of these tubers benefit from the pesticidal smell of a nearby basil plant.
Plants That Don’t Grow Near Basil
Although basil is one of the easiest plants to grow and works well as an herbal companion plant, there are also some plants you should avoid alongside it.
1. Cucumbers
Planting basil and cucumber is definitely a no. Planting cucumbers near herbs can affect the flavor of your cucumber and some farmers also claim it reduces cucumber yields. It is therefore best to plant them separately.
2. Fennel
Fennel is not a garden food companion plant, so keep it away from basil. It is a garden crop that does not mix well with other vegetables. Fennel can help attract beneficial insects, but it can also inhibit or even completely kill basil.
3. Herbs
Image: Envato ElementsBasil generally prefers the company of vegetables to herbs like it. Basil should not be planted near herbs such as rue or sage. However, they can be planted with rosemary, but it is best to keep them in separate pots, as basil needs more water than rosemary.
Common Questions About Basil Companion Plants
Does Basil Need Full Sun?
Basil tends to thrive in warm temperatures and full morning sun. However, if you live in an area where the sun is hot at midday, you will need to shade your basil plant.
What can you sprinkle on basil to keep insects away?
Spraying basil with Neem or insecticidal soap will keep insects away. Neem spraying is the viable option for keeping beetles, aphids, whiteflies, and basil thrips away.
Can you plant basil in the ground?
Basil can be planted in the ground, but it is very sensitive to cold, so monitor early spring temperatures and cover if necessary.
Is basil easy to grow?
Basil is easy to grow, but it’s not the easiest herb to grow either. It grows outside only in summer and only when the soil has warmed up. Basil grows very fast with the proper cultivation method and maintenance.
Is Epsom Salt Good For Basil Plants?
Epsom salt can help the basil grow properly, but the flavor can be affected in the process. Epsom salt ensures your weed has enough magnesium and sulfur to stay healthy, but is best mixed with water when used with basil.
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Holy basil is a fast growing herb that has spread its popularity across continents.
Like any plant, planting pets can help it thrive. Basil is a great companion for a wide variety of plants and herbs, but be careful and keep your weed healthy. Above are the things you need to know.
Read below: The Best Companion Plants for Kale