Companion Plants for Basil
Discover which plants thrive alongside Basil and which ones to keep far away. Strategic companion planting boosts yields, repels pests naturally, and makes the most of your garden space.
Good Companions for Basil
Plant these near your Basil for mutual benefit
Tomato
GoodClassic companion — basil repels aphids, hornworms, and whiteflies that target tomatoes
View Tomato growing guidePepper
GoodRepels aphids and spider mites; both thrive in similar warm, sunny conditions
View Pepper growing guideOregano
GoodAttracts beneficial predatory insects; both herbs prefer dry, well-drained soil
View Oregano growing guideMarigold
GoodCombined pest-repelling effect; marigolds deter nematodes while basil repels flying pests
View Marigold growing guidePlants to Avoid Near Basil
Keep these away from your Basil plants
Sage
AvoidSage inhibits basil growth — these two Mediterranean herbs compete despite similar growing needs
View Sage growing guideFennel
AvoidFennel is allelopathic to most garden plants including basil; keep them well apart
View Fennel growing guideWhere to Grow Basil With Its Companions
Check your city's planting calendar for Basil and its best companion plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grows well with Basil?
Tomato: Classic companion — basil repels aphids, hornworms, and whiteflies that target tomatoes. Pepper: Repels aphids and spider mites; both thrive in similar warm, sunny conditions. Oregano: Attracts beneficial predatory insects; both herbs prefer dry, well-drained soil.
What should you not plant near Basil?
Sage: Sage inhibits basil growth — these two Mediterranean herbs compete despite similar growing needs. Fennel: Fennel is allelopathic to most garden plants including basil; keep them well apart.
What is companion planting for Basil?
Companion planting for Basil means strategically placing plants nearby that offer mutual benefits — such as repelling pests, attracting pollinators, or improving soil conditions. Good Basil companions include Tomato, Pepper, Oregano. Avoid planting Basil near Sage or Fennel.