Companion planting involves placing certain plants near each other to benefit their growth and repel pests. Lemongrass is known for its insect-repellent properties, particularly against mosquitoes.
Here are 17 companion plants that can be beneficial when planted alongside lemongrass.
Basil
Basil is a popular herb that can be grown alongside lemongrass in a garden or a container. Basil has many benefits as a companion plant for lemongrass, such as:
- Basil attracts beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, that pollinate the flowers and enhance the fragrance of both plants.
- Basil repels pests, such as aphids and whiteflies, that can damage the leaves and stems of lemongrass.
- Basil improves the flavor and quality of lemongrass, as both plants share some aromatic compounds and complement each other well in culinary dishes.
- Basil helps to create a microclimate for lemongrass, by providing shade, moisture, and nutrients to the soil.
Lavender
Lavender is a popular herb that can be used as a companion plant for lemongrass. Lavender has many benefits for lemongrass, such as:
- It attracts beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, that pollinate the flowers and increase the yield of lemongrass.
- It repels pests, such as aphids and whiteflies, that can damage the leaves and stems of lemongrass.
- It improves the soil quality, by adding organic matter and nutrients, and helps retain moisture and prevent erosion.
- It enhances the flavor and aroma of lemongrass, by creating a pleasant contrast between the sweet and citrusy notes of lemongrass and the floral and herbal notes of lavender.
Marigold
Marigold is a popular companion plant for lemongrass because it has several benefits.
Marigold attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which help pollinate the lemongrass and other plants in the garden.
Marigold also repels pests such as nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies, which can damage the lemongrass and reduce its yield.
Marigold is easy to grow and maintain, and it can be planted in pots or in the ground near the lemongrass.
Marigolds and lemongrass are sun-loving plants requiring well-drained soil and regular watering. By planting them together, you can create a harmonious and productive garden.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a good companion plant for lemongrass because it can repel some insects that may harm lemongrasses, such as aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs.
Rosemary can also help lemongrass by creating a microclimate that reduces water loss and evaporation. Lemongrass, in turn, can provide rosemary with some nutrients and organic matter from its roots and stems.
To grow rosemary and lemongrass together, you need to consider their spacing, watering, and harvesting needs.
Rosemary and lemongrass should be planted about 12 inches apart to allow enough room for their growth. They both prefer well-drained soil and full sun exposure. They also need regular watering, but not too much, as they can tolerate some drought.
Mint
Mint and lemongrass are good companions because they have similar growing requirements and complementary properties.
Mint and lemongrass can benefit from each other’s presence by increasing their aromatic qualities and pest resistance.
Mint contains menthol, a compound that has a cooling effect on the skin and the respiratory system. Lemongrass contains citral, a compound that has a warming effect on the body and a calming effect on the mind.
Together, they create a balanced and soothing fragrance that can repel mosquitoes, flies, ants, and other insects. Mint and lemongrass can also deter rodents, rabbits, deer, and other animals that might nibble on them.
Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum is a popular flower that can also serve as a companion plant for lemongrass.
Chrysanthemum can help lemongrass by attracting beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, that pollinate the flowers and herbs.
Chrysanthemum can also repel some pests, such as aphids and spider mites, that may damage lemongrass.
Chrysanthemum and lemongrass can be planted together in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
Catnip
Catnip can help deter pests that may damage lemongrasses, such as aphids, whiteflies, and mosquitoes. Catnip contains a chemical called nepetalactone, which is unpleasant for many insects. By planting catnip near lemongrass, you can create a natural barrier that protects your lemongrass from unwanted visitors.
Catnip can also help attract beneficial insects that can pollinate and improve the health of lemongrass, such as bees, butterflies, and ladybugs. Catnip has small purple flowers that are rich in nectar and pollen, which can entice these friendly creatures to visit your garden.
Lastly, catnip can help improve the soil quality and drainage for lemongrass, which prefers well-drained and fertile soil. Catnip has deep roots that can loosen the soil and prevent waterlogging. Catnip can also add organic matter and nutrients to the soil as it decomposes.
Thyme
Thyme is a herb that can be used as a companion plant for lemongrass. Thyme has several benefits for lemongrass, such as:
- Thyme attracts beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, that pollinate lemongrass and other plants in the garden.
- Thyme repels pests, such as aphids and whiteflies, that can damage lemongrass and reduce its yield.
- Thyme improves the soil quality, by adding organic matter and nutrients, and helps lemongrass grow healthier and stronger.
- Thyme enhances the flavor and aroma of lemongrass, by creating a pleasant contrast between the citrusy and minty notes of both herbs.
Oregano
Some of the advantages of planting oregano and lemongrass together are:
- They both prefer full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate watering.
- They both have strong scents that can repel insects, such as mosquitoes, aphids, and whiteflies.
- They both have antifungal and antibacterial properties that can prevent fungal infections and root rot.
- They both can be harvested and used fresh or dried for culinary and medicinal purposes.
To grow oregano and lemongrass together, you can either plant them in the same container or in the same bed, leaving about 12 inches of space between them.
Geranium
Geranium is a popular companion plant for lemongrass because it can repel pests and attract beneficial insects. Geranium has a strong scent that can mask the aroma of lemongrass, making it less appealing to mosquitoes, aphids, and other pests.
Geranium also produces colorful flowers that can attract pollinators and predators, such as bees, butterflies, and ladybugs. These insects can help lemongrass grow healthier and more productive.
Geranium is easy to grow and can tolerate various soil and light conditions. It can also be grown in containers or in the ground, making it a versatile companion plant for lemongrass.
Nasturtium
Nasturtium has a strong odor that repels many pests, such as aphids, whiteflies, cabbage loopers, and squash bugs, that may otherwise attack lemongrass or other plants nearby.
Nasturtium also attracts pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, that can help improve the pollination and yield of lemongrass and other crops. Nasturtium and lemongrass have similar growing requirements: they both prefer full sun or partial shade, moist but well-drained soil, and regular pruning.
Nasturtium can be grown as a border, a ground cover, or in containers to add color and flavor to your garden.
Sage
Sage can be a good companion plant for lemongrass, as it can provide multiple benefits for its growth and health. However, some factors to consider before planting them together are their spacing, watering, and harvesting needs.
Sage and lemongrass should be planted at least 30 cm apart to avoid overcrowding and competition.
They should also be watered regularly but not excessively, as they both prefer well-drained soils.
Finally, they should be harvested at different times, as sage is best harvested before flowering, while lemongrass is best harvested after flowering.
Calendula
Calendula is a beautiful and beneficial flower that can be grown as a companion plant for lemongrass.
Calendula has bright orange or yellow petals that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which help with the pollination of lemongrass and other plants in the garden.
Calendula can also repel some pests, such as aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes, that may harm lemongrass or other crops.
Calendula and lemongrass have similar growing requirements, as they both prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They can be planted together in pots or in the ground, leaving about 12 inches of space between them.
Calendula and lemongrass make a great combination for both culinary and medicinal purposes, as well as adding color and fragrance to the garden.
Fennel
One of the best lemongrass companion plants is fennel, which is another aromatic herb with culinary and medicinal uses.
Fennel can attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, which can help control aphids, caterpillars, and other pests that may harm lemongrass.
Fennel also has a similar growing requirement as lemongrass, preferring full sun and well-drained soil.
However, fennel should not be planted too close to lemongrass, as it may inhibit its growth. A distance of at least 12 inches (30 cm) is recommended between the two plants.
Lemon balm
Lemon balm is a beneficial companion plant for lemongrass, as both herbs have a citrusy aroma that repels pests and attracts pollinators.
Lemon balm is also easy to grow and thrives in similar conditions as lemongrass, such as moist soil and full sun or partial shade.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a beneficial companion plant for lemongrass, as it helps repel pests and improve the growth and flavor of lemongrass.
Chamomile and lemongrass have similar growing requirements, such as full sun and moist soil.
Garlic
Garlic is a beneficial companion plant for lemongrass, as it can repel pests and enhance the flavor of the herb.
Garlic has a strong scent that can deter aphids, whiteflies, and other insects that may feed on lemongrass. Garlic also contains sulfur compounds that can improve soil quality and increase the production of essential oils in lemongrass.
Planting garlic near lemongrass can also create a pleasant aroma in the garden and add a zesty taste to dishes that use both ingredients.
