The Best Herb Combinations to Plant Together for a Thriving Garden

Growing herbs together isn’t just a great way to save space—it can also help them thrive, enhance their flavors, and even keep pests away. But not all herbs make great neighbors.

Some grow well together, sharing similar needs, while others can compete for space, water, or nutrients.

Herbs are some of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow, whether in pots, garden beds, or in the ground.

While you could plant them all in one big container, setting them up with the right conditions from the start will give them the best chance to flourish—and make your gardening experience even more enjoyable!

This guide is a simple, beginner-friendly resource to help you understand which herbs grow best together and how to give them the care they need. I hope it makes your herb garden easier to manage and keeps your plants happy, healthy, and thriving!

Companion Planting Basics for Herbs

If you’re new to companion planting, don’t worry—it’s pretty simple! It’s all about grouping plants in a way that helps them grow better. When it comes to herbs, this means paying attention to things like:

  • Water and Soil Needs – Some herbs thrive in dry, well-drained soil, while others prefer moisture.
  • Sunlight Requirements – Full-sun herbs should be paired together, while shade-tolerant herbs need a separate area, especially during the summer.
  • Growth Habits – Some herbs spread aggressively (like mint) and can overwhelm the area, while others are slow-growing,like sage and thyme.

Knowing this can help you understand where and how to plant your herbs.

Best Herb Combinations for Success

1. Mediterranean Herbs (Drought-Tolerant & Sun-Loving)

Drought-tolerant herbs planted together: oregano and thyme.

These herbs love dry, well-draining soil and don’t need much water to thrive. They make great companions, growing happily side by side while filling your garden with wonderful fragrance—and even helping to keep pests away!

Plus, since they have similar needs, you won’t have to worry about one out-competing the other for water or nutrients. Planting them together makes caring for your herb garden easier while creating a beautiful, low-maintenance space you’ll love.

✔️ Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano, Sage, Lavender

Rosemary plant planted in grey container.
Rosemary Plant
  • Why they work together: They all love full sun and drier soil! This makes them incredibly easy to care for; you’ll find that this herb combination grows pretty effortlessly well as long as you give it the right environment.
  • Bonus: Their strong fragrance deter common pests like aphids and mosquitoes. They’re great for planting near other plants and flowers you want to protect.
Oregano herb plant. Small leaves growing in soil.
Oregano Plant

⚠️ Avoid planting with: Moisture-loving herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley.

Thyme herb Plant growing in a large raised garden
Thyme Herb Plant

Yes – many people grow lavender in their herb gardens! They use this fragrant plant in creations like candles, potpourri, homemade oils, and crafts.

2. Moisture-Loving Herbs

Moisture-loving herbs are the ones that thrive in rich, consistently damp soil—think of them as the herbs that enjoy a little extra hydration. Basil, cilantro, parsley, and chives all fall into this category, and they’re perfect for gardeners who don’t mind regular watering.

Unlike drought-tolerant herbs that prefer dry conditions, these need soil that stays evenly moist but never soggy. They also do well with a bit of afternoon shade, especially in hot climates, to keep them from wilting too quickly.

What makes them special? Not only do they add fresh, vibrant flavor to so many dishes, but they also grow beautifully together, creating a lush and productive herb garden that’s easy to snip from whenever you need fresh herbs in your recipe!

These flavorful herbs include:

✔️ Basil, Cilantro, Parsley, Chives

  • Why they work together: All prefer evenly moist, well-drained soil.
  • Bonus: Basil attracts pollinators when allowed to bloom, while chives deter aphids with their fragrance.

⚠️ Avoid planting with: Drought-tolerant herbs like rosemary and lavender, which need much less water.

3. Herbs That Repel Pests and Attract Pollinators

Some herbs do more than just add flavor to your cooking—they also help keep pests away and attract helpful pollinators to your garden.

Rosemary, sage, thyme, and mint are all powerhouses when it comes to naturally deterring unwanted bugs like aphids and mosquitoes.

At the same time, their flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies, which help pollinate nearby plants and keep your garden thriving.

These herbs are not only hardworking but also incredibly easy to grow, making them a great addition to any space. Just be mindful with mint—it tends to spread quickly, so planting it in a container is the best way to keep it from taking over.

With these pest-fighting, pollinator-friendly herbs in your garden, you’ll have a healthier, more vibrant outdoor space with less effort!

Rosemary plant planted in grey container.
Rosemary Plant

Some herbs have strong scents that naturally repel pests, making them great companions for vegetables and flowers.

✔️ Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Mint

  • Why they work together: Their pungent aroma deters garden pests like cabbage moths and mosquitoes.
  • Tip: Mint can help repel ants and aphids but should only be grown in a container to prevent it from spreading wildly. If planted in the ground, mint can take over your garden and keep spreading even after you think you’ve pulled it all out.
Mint plant growing in glossy taupe container on stepping stone.

4. Cool-Weather Herbs (Great for Spring & Fall Gardens)

These herbs prefer cooler temperatures and can be grown together in spring and fall.

*Cilantro does not do well during the summer months because the heat is simply too much for it to bear – believe me, I’ve tried! It’s best to honor the plant’s climate preferences here.

✔️ Chives, Dill, Cilantro, Parsley

  • Why they work together: They thrive in partial shade and cooler conditions.
  • Bonus: Dill attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs that help control pests.
cilantro plants in raised garden container

⚠️ Avoid planting with: Mediterranean herbs that prefer warm, dry conditions.

5. Herbs That Enhance Vegetable Growth

Basil is a super-easy herb to grow in your garden!

Certain herbs improve the growth, flavor, and health of specific vegetables.

✔️ Basil + Tomatoes – Enhances tomato flavor and repels pests like aphids.
✔️ Dill + Cabbage – Attracts beneficial insects that protect cabbage.
✔️ Chives + Carrots – Deters carrot flies and improves flavor.

⚠️ Avoid planting fennel near most vegetables and herbs. It releases chemicals that inhibit growth.

Herbs That Should Not Be Planted Together

While many herbs grow well together, some combinations can cause issues.

🚫 Mint vs. Other Herbs – Mint spreads aggressively and can choke out other herbs. Best grown in containers.
🚫 Fennel vs. Most Herbs – Fennel excretes compounds that inhibit the growth of nearby plants.
🚫 Dill vs. Lavender/Rosemary – Dill prefers moist soil, while lavender and rosemary need dry conditions.

How to Plant Herbs for Success

  • Use Containers for Invasive Herbs: Keep mint and lemon balm in pots to prevent them from taking over.
  • Group by Water Needs: Place drought-tolerant herbs together and separate them from moisture-loving herbs.
  • Consider Sunlight: Full-sun herbs should be planted in the brightest spots, while shade-tolerant herbs can go in partial sun areas.
  • Harvest Regularly: Frequent harvesting encourages more growth and prevents herbs from going to seed too quickly.

Extra Tips for a Thriving Herb Garden

  • Rotate herbs seasonally to maximize their growth potential.
  • Use companion planting to deter pests and attract pollinators naturally.
  • If growing indoors, use separate pots to accommodate different watering needs.

By carefully choosing which herbs to plant together, you’ll create a healthier, more productive herb garden that thrives all season.