Combining lavender with other plants can boost vitality, prevent pest infestation and increase yields. The scented herb is a favorite of mixed cultures. We introduce suitable bed neighbors.
Mixed culture with lavender
While monocultures are the rule in industrial agriculture, organic farmers have been using mixed cultures for generations. More and more hobby gardeners are orienting themselves towards this model, because the advantages are obvious.
Mixed culture
- maintains soil fertility
- allows better use above and below the surface
- strengthens the vitality of the plants
- contributes to the preservation of biological diversity
- prevents pests and diseases
- can have positive effects on the aroma of the plants involved
- reduces the need for fertilizers
Influencing the plant partners he follows
- about root exudates
- about fragrances
Appearance as a selection criterion
The lavender plant grows quickly into a subshrub. Its spike-shaped flowers shine in blue-violet in summer. New varieties are available in white. The light hairs of the narrow gray-green leaves appear like a soft, silvery coating. When choosing, the visual effect of the combination is also decisive. Anyone planning a bed first looks at the colors, shapes and sizes of the neighboring plants. When the bed partners harmonize with each other and the like
If you have location requirements, this selection method can work well.Location requirements of lavender
The basis for a functioning coexistence are similar demands on the location and the soil quality. When choosing the neighbors to plant, pay attention to the requirements of the lavender.
- Location: sunny
- Soil: dry, nutrient-rich, calcareous, well-drained
- Height: 30 to 40 centimeters
- Spread: 30 to 40 centimeters
- Flowering period: July to September
- Use: flower borders, rose beds, rock gardens, balconies
Effects of lavender on neighboring beds
- increases the production of essential oils in medicinal herbs
- drives away the cabbage white butterfly, ants and aphids
Note: The lavender bush is known for the enchanting scent of its flowers. Check how the flavors interact before combining it with other highly fragrant plants.
Suitable plant neighbors Lavender A to R
Savory(Satureja)
Savory is suitable as a plant neighbor to lavender on a bed. Both have the same location requirements.
Curry herb(Helichrysum italicum)
With gray-white leaves and golden-yellow flowers, curry herb is an excellent addition to the lavender bed.
Lady's mantle(Alchemilla)
The delicate yellow flowers of the
Women's coats form a great contrast to the purple of the lavender flowers. Both perennials have similar site conditions and feel good next to each other.
Grass lily(Anthericum)
Grass lilies and lavender bushes have similar demands on soil, location and care. The purple lavender flowers and the delicate white lily flowers complement each other well.
Cabbage(Brassica)
All types of cabbage benefit from a combination with lavender plants. The aromatic scent drives away the cabbage white butterfly.
Marigold(Calendula officinalis)
Marigolds benefit from the proximity of lavender, because without its fragrance, the flowers are often attacked by aphids. The bright yellow or orange flowers look magical next to the purple lavender flowers.
rose(Pink)
All bed roses look very attractive next to lavender bushes. The purple of the lavender blossoms creates a magical contrast to red, orange, yellow, pink or cream-colored rose blossoms. Like lavender, roses love dry, sunny locations. However, roses prefer rather humus soils. Plant lavender bushes in pots or dig large planting pits to provide the nutrient-poor substrate required for lavender plants. A plus point of this partnership is the deterrent effect of lavender on aphids.
Suitable plant neighbors Lavender S to Z
sage(Salvia officinalis)
Like lavender plants, sage feels at home in sunny, chalky, nutrient-poor locations. The flowers of both herbs are in the violet color spectrum and complement each other perfectly. The protective effect of lavender against ants is reinforced by sage.
thyme(Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme is one of the most popular medicinal herbs. Its spicy aroma harmonizes perfectly with the scent of lavender. From May to autumn, small lip flowers appear in pink to purple. Together with purple lavender flowers, a gentle color harmony is created that attracts bees and butterflies as well as the eyes of garden visitors. Thyme prefers dry, sunny locations and, like lavender plants, helps repel aphids.
Wollziest(Stachys byzantina)
The soft, silver-gray leaves of the Wollziest create magical contrasts alongside purple lavender flowers. Both plants love sunny locations and can do without water for a long time.
Note: Lavender is suitable as a neighboring plant for many garden plants. In no case should the fragrant herb be grown next to parsley. The two plants do not get along!
hyssop(Hyssopus officinalis)
Hyssop is a beautiful weed with purple flowers and dark green foliage. In addition to hyssop, lavender unfolds its full beauty. The aromatic herb promotes the development of the lavender.
Rockrose(Cistus incanus)
Rockrose is considered to be nature's miracle cure. On the bed, lavender has established itself as a good neighbor of the easy-care Mediterranean plant with its white or purple flowers.
Note: In addition to the site conditions, the care properties of the bed partners must match. In addition to lavender bushes, only plant varieties that are just as easy to care for and require little moisture.
Lemon balm(Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm stimulates the growth of lavender. The fresh lemon aroma is a perfect complement to the lavender scent.
Note: Not only in the immediate vicinity on a bed, but also on the entire property, it makes sense to pay attention to the influence of the plants on one another.
Those who find a suitable combination can look forward to healthy plants, good yields and attractive flowers.
