The Best Companion Plants for Thyme – A Complete Guide

Thyme is a great herb to grow indoors or outdoors. Its easy to care for, and has many medicinal and culinary uses. But what other plants should you grow with thyme? In this blog post, we’ll talk about some of the best plants to grow with thyme and why they do so well. So, whether you’re new to thyme or want to find new plants that go well with it, keep reading!

Thyme is a member of the mint family and is related to lavender, oregano, and rosemary plants. Thyme is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1 foot tall. It has broad leaves that are green on the top and white on the bottom. The flowers are small and purple. Like some other herbs, Thyme is used as a herb in cooking, and it also has medicinal properties. It has many varieties including lemon thyme, creeping thyme, Common thyme “thymus vulgaris” & thyme Archers Gold.

Plants that live next to each other and are known to help each other grow are called companion plants. You can use these plants to clean the air, ease the stress on plants, boost biodiversity, and bring in beneficial insects that thrive when thyme grows. It’s important to pick the right companion plant for your garden because there are so many kinds.

For thyme companion planting, one must grow other plants with thyme for better results. Some of the best thyme companion plants are as follows.

Tomatoes are a great companion plant for thyme plants. They can help control pests and provide nectar for bees, which in turn will help pollinate thyme plants. They also need some of the same things to grow, so if you have tomatoes growing nearby, put thyme in the same area.

Lavender is a sweet, herbal plant and a popular choice for companion planting with thyme. The two plants can work together to repel pests. Lavender helps enhance the smell of thyme in the garden or around the home. Lavender helps to keep deer away, which can be helpful if you are growing thyme for culinary use. Lavender also has fragrant oil that can help with fragrance in the garden.

Rosemary is a fragrant, evergreen shrub that can grow up to 4 feet tall. It has leathery leaves and grows clusters of small, white flowers in spring. Rosemary is a great plant to grow with thyme because it helps mask the smell of thyme while giving off its own sweet scent. Additionally, rosemary is reputed to improve air quality and deter pests.

Parsley is a flavorful, aromatic herb that pairs well with thyme. Parsley can help repel insects, add flavor to foods, and soothe the stomach. There are antioxidants in parsley that can help protect the thyme plant from damage caused by bugs and diseases. Additionally, parsley is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as folate.

Sage, which comes from the Mediterranean, is a flexible plant that can be used with thyme. It can be planted on borders or mixed in with other thyme plants in the garden. Sage has many benefits that make it an ideal plant for use in natural landscaping. These benefits include attracting beneficial insects, increasing soil fertility, and controlling weed growth. Sage is still thought to be a good plant to grow with thyme because it helps keep the thyme in check and creates a nice aromatic balance.

Cabbage is a cool-season vegetable that is grown mainly for its leaves and edible flowers. Thyme and cabbage leaves go well together because the cabbage leaves can keep pests away and help keep deer, rabbits, and other animals away. People who want to grow their own vegetables should choose a plant in the cabbage family, like brussels sprouts or cabbage. These plants are easy to grow and do not require a lot of space.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Chamomile has been used as a traditional medicine for a long time, and it is thought to have many health benefits, such as helping with stress, insomnia, and anxiety. You can also use thyme and chamomile together in the garden because they have similar growth habits and do well together.

Dill is a low-growing perennial herb that does well in a wide range of soils. This makes it a great plant to grow with thyme. Dill helps to deter pests and can also work as a flavoring agent for thyme plants. Dill can also be used as a natural dye.

Fennel is an interesting plant to pair with thyme. Both plants have a licorice flavor and can be used together in many different dishes. Thyme is often used in cooking, while fennel can be added to salads or used to season sausage. In addition, fennel can kill fungus, which makes it useful for gardeners who want to stop fungus from growing.

Marjoram is a lesser-known but popular companion plant with thyme. The two have many complementary qualities and can be used together to enhance the growth of each other. They work well together in gardens that need a strong scent because marjoram has a milder scent than thyme. Marjoram also grows better in dry climates, while thyme is better suited to wetter areas.

Some people enjoy the scent of mint as a companion plant with thyme. Mint is known to repel pests and can help add freshness to thyme-scented plants. Mint is also drought tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types.

Thyme is a versatile herb that adds delicious flavor to dishes while also providing decorative appeal in gardens. But beyond taste and beauty, thyme serves a practical purpose as well – it deters pests and attracts pollinators when planted alongside other plants. Taking advantage of these companion planting benefits allows you to create an ecosystem where thyme and its neighbors can thrive.

This guide will explore the best and worst companion plants for thyme and provide tips for using thyme effectively in your vegetable garden, herb garden, perennial beds and more.

Why Use Thyme as a Companion Plant?

Here are some of the top reasons to incorporate thyme into your garden as a companion plant

  • Deters cabbage moths, whiteflies, aphids, and other pests
  • Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators
  • Provides fragrant oils that complement other herbs
  • Can improve growth and flavor of certain vegetables
  • Requires little maintenance once established
  • Tolerates drought and poor soil
  • Provides lovely flowers and foliage

By thoughtfully planting thyme near plants it benefits, you can reduce maintenance while increasing productivity in your garden.

Best Herb Companions for Thyme

Thyme pairs especially well with other herbs Try planting thyme near

Oregano

Oregano and thyme both repel pests and draw in pollinators with their small flowers. Plus they have complementary scents and flavors, making them ideal ingredients for herb seasoning blends.

Sage

Sage provides subtle fragrance that balances strong thyme scent. It also improves air circulation and deters pests. Allow at least 2 feet between thyme and sage plants.

Mint

Mint’s pungent aroma repels many insect pests, benefiting nearby thyme. Choose mints like peppermint and spearmint that have similar moisture needs as thyme.

Lavender

Lavender and thyme both prefer drier conditions and sandy, alkaline soil. Lavender’s oils nicely complement thyme’s flavors. Allow at least 12 inches between plants.

Rosemary

Rosemary repels insects and enhances the scent of thyme when planted nearby. It tolerates drought once established. Allow at least 2 feet between rosemary and thyme.

Best Vegetables to Plant with Thyme

Thyme makes an excellent companion for several vegetable crops, including:

Cabbages

Deters cabbage moths and loopers

Brussels Sprouts

Repels aphids and whiteflies

Broccoli

Drives away cabbage worms

Eggplant

Improves flavor and controls pests like flea beetles

Potatoes

Helps fend off potato beetles and may enhance potato flavor

Tomatoes

Repels hornworms and other pests while attracting pollinators

For all these vegetables, plant thyme around the perimeter of beds to take advantage of its pest control abilities. Make sure adequate space is left between plants for air circulation and growth.

Best Flowers to Pair with Thyme

Thyme’s pest deterring traits and pollinator appeal make it a great companion for several popular flowers:

Roses

Helps fend off aphids and black spot fungus

Carnations

Repels aphids and mites

Chrysanthemums

Wards off aphids and spider mites

Bee Balm

Attracts pollinators

Yarrow

Repels pests like mosquitoes and deer

Try using thyme as a perimeter border or interplant it throughout flower beds. The small size makes it easy to tuck in among larger plants.

Good Companions for Potted Thyme

If growing thyme in containers, partner it with plants that require similar:

  • Soil (well-draining)
  • Sun exposure (full sun to light shade)
  • Watering frequency (let soil dry between waterings)

Some top picks include:

  • Oregano
  • Marjoram
  • Sage
  • Lavender
  • Rosemary
    -Parsley
  • Chives

Arrange pots together in a sunny location for ease of care. Just be sure each plant has adequate root space.

Worst Companion Plants for Thyme

While thyme benefits many plants, a few poor pairings do exist. Avoid planting thyme near:

Basil

Prefers moist, nutrient rich soil unlike thyme. Basil’s thymol can inhibit thyme growth.

Parsley

Requires frequent irrigation that can lead to fungal issues for thyme.

Cilantro

Has higher moisture and nutrient demands compared to thyme.

Chives

Differing water, soil, and sunlight needs. Chives are also annuals unlike perennial thyme.

Onions

Onions release sulfur that can suppress thyme growth.

Tips for Successful Thyme Companion Planting

Follow these tips to get the most out of pairing thyme with other plants:

  • Check growing condition needs and avoid mixing plants with very different requirements

  • Space plants appropriately to prevent crowding and competition

  • Use thyme borders wisely around plants it benefits

  • Add pollinator-attracting flowers to boost the ecosystem

  • Use containers to control soil, moisture, and light conditions

  • Monitor for signs of pest damage or plant stress and adjust as needed

  • Harvest thyme frequently to promote new growth

With some planning and observation, thyme can be an invaluable companion plant in gardens and containers.

How to Use Thyme as a Companion Plant

Here is a simple process for incorporating thyme effectively:

Check Plant Compatibilities

Make sure chosen plants have overlapping needs for sunlight, soil, and water to prevent stress.

Amend Soil

Prepare planting area with compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage.

Create a Thyme Border

Ring vegetable patches, herb beds, or flower plots with thyme plants spaced 8-12 inches apart.

Interplant with Flowers

Add bee balm, yarrow or other small flowers among the thyme to attract pollinators.

Monitor Growth

Watch for signs of diseases or pests and treat issues immediately to prevent spreading.

Harvest Often

Cut thyme stems frequently to encourage bushy, new growth.

Proper planning and care makes growing thyme alongside other plants a breeze!

Common Pests and Diseases of Thyme

Even though thyme deters many pests, it can still become damaged by some insects and diseases. Watch for these common problems:

  • Aphids – Small, green or black soft-bodied insects that cluster on stems and leaves. They secrete a sticky substance called honeydew. Use strong sprays of water to remove or apply neem oil.

  • Spider mites – Tiny reddish brown mites that form webs on the undersides of leaves. Leaves turn speckled or yellowed. Knock off with water or use insecticidal soap sprays.

  • Thrips – Tiny dark or yellow insects that rasp foliage. Leaves turn silvered. Remove damaged parts immediately and use sticky traps for monitoring.

  • Root rot – Caused by overwatering. Stems turn black and collapse. Improve soil drainage and avoid excessive moisture.

  • Fungal leaf spot – Leaves develop small black spots circled by yellowing. Prune damaged parts and avoid overhead watering.

Good growing practices are key to preventing issues. Ensure thyme receives enough sun, prune old growth, and don’t overwater.

Reasons Thyme Makes a Great Companion Plant

Here’s a quick summary of what makes thyme such a valuable companion:

  • Deters cabbage moths, aphids, and other pests from bothering nearby plants.

  • Provides fragrant oils that complement other herbs like lavender, sage and mint.

  • Attracts pollinators with its small tubular flowers.

  • Adds wonderful flavor when used in cooking with companion veggies like potatoes, cabbage and eggplant.

  • Requires little watering or fertilizing once established.

  • Tolerates poor, dry soils making it versatile.

  • Low growing habit lets it tuck nicely between larger plants.

  • Leaves can be frequently harvested to supply the kitchen.

Take advantage of all these benefits by making thyme a staple companion plant in your edible and ornamental gardens!

Final Thoughts on Growing Thyme as a Companion

By understanding companion relationships, you can take advantage of nature’s own balancing systems for a low maintenance, highly productive garden. Thyme’s pest deterring abilities and compatibility with herbs, vegetables and flowers make it a companion planting MVP. Keep its needs in mind and space plants appropriately for success. With the right partnerships, your thyme will thrive while helping other plants prosper as well.

Plants You Shouldn’t Grow Near Thyme

There are a few plants that you should definitely not grow next to thyme. All of these plants including hydrangea, azaleas, rhododendrons, and maples. They produce large quantities of sap that can damage thyme if it gets on the plant.

Here are some other non-compatible plants which you should not grow with thyme.

Cilantro (Coriander) should not be planted as a companion plant to thyme. These plants belong to different families and have different tolerances for pests and diseases. Additionally, cilantro has a strong, pungent taste that may compete with thyme.

Basil is not a good companion plant for thyme because of their different preferences in soil and sunlight. Basil does best in warm, dry climates, while thyme prefers moist soils. Basil also grows quickly rigorously, overshadowing thyme. Basil can produce thymol, a potent chemical that can inhibit the growth of thyme. Basil also competes with thyme for wateand nutrients, and can block sunlight from reaching the thyme.

Chives should not be planted as companion plants to thyme because they share several incompatible characteristics. For one, chives are an annual plant, while thyme is a perennial. Additionally, chives are susceptible to pests and diseases, while thyme is resistant to many of the same problems. Finally, both plants grow in different soil types and require different watering schedules.

A lot of gardeners think that onions and thyme go well together because they look good with each other. Thyme and onions, on the other hand, should not be planted together because they have different needs and grow in different ways. Onions grow slowly and spread out, while thyme grows quickly and spreads up. Additionally, onions contain sulfides that can inhibit the growth of thyme.

Besides adding companion plants,

Requirements for thyme plant

For planting thyme, the following are certain requirements you need to follow for its optimal growth

Water is important for thyme plants to grow, but the amount they need depends on where they are and the weather. In warm places, thyme needs up to 3 inches of water a week. In cool places, it only needs up to 1 inch a week. Plants that are grown in containers also need more water than those grown in the ground.

Sun exposure is essential for thyme to thrive. Thyme grows best in full sun exposure but can tolerate partial sun or light shade. Thyme should be planted somewhere that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight every day to make sure it gets the right amount of sunlight.

Soil conditions are a critical factor in the growth of any plant. Thyme, like other plants in the mint family, requires well-drained soil with a pH between 6. 0 and 7. 5. The thyme seeds also need good fertility and adequate moisture to thrive. Thyme grows best in full sun or part shade but will do well in medium to wet soils.

The humidity level that thyme needs can change based on where it is grown, but a normal range is between 75 and 85 percent. Thyme should be kept dry and free from pests during storage, so a humidity-controlled environment is ideal.

Thyme: How to Grow & Use This Amazing Herb (COMPLETE GUIDE)

What does thyme need to grow?

Thyme can grow in the ground or in a container. Either is left outside in wintertime. New leaves will emerge within the early spring. Thyme thrives in full sun and loves heat. If you are growing in a pot indoors, plant near a sunny window. Soil needs to drain well so there aren’t “wet feet.”

How do you plant thyme?

Give your thyme a spot in full sun; it handles hot, dry conditions better than cool, damp soil. Thyme plants thrive best in full sunlight due to their Mediterranean origins. Plant them in a sunny, exposed spot in your garden, or in decorative planters that can be moved around throughout the day to chase the light.

What are the benefits of thyme?

Thyme contains chemicals that might help bacterial and fungal infections. It also might help relieve coughing and have antioxidant effects. People commonly use thyme for cough, patchy hair loss ( alopecia areata), dementia, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Leave a Comment