What Not to Plant Near Lavender: A Guide for Gardeners

What Not to Plant Near Lavender?

Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant herb that is often used in gardens and landscaping. It is easy to grow and care for, and it can add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. However, there are some plants that should not be planted near lavender, as they can compete for resources and stunt the growth of the lavender plant.

In this article, we will discuss what not to plant near lavender, and why it is important to avoid these plants. We will also provide some tips for planting lavender successfully.

So, what are some plants that should not be planted near lavender?

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Plant	Reason	Alternatives
Tomatoes	Lavender can stunt the growth of tomatoes.	Basil, rosemary, mint, thyme
Cucumbers	Lavender can attract pests that damage cucumbers.	Dill, parsley, chives
Peppers	Lavender can compete for nutrients with peppers.	Sage, oregano, marjoram

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Lavender is a popular herb that is known for its fragrant flowers and its ability to repel pests. It is also a relatively easy plant to grow, making it a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels. However, there are some plants that should not be planted near lavender, as they can compete with it for water and nutrients, or attract pests or diseases that also affect lavender.

In this article, we will discuss the following plants that should not be planted near lavender:

• Plants that compete with lavender for water and nutrients
• Plants that attract pests or diseases that also affect lavender

We will also provide tips on how to avoid planting these plants near lavender, and how to protect your lavender plants from pests and diseases.

Plants That Compete with Lavender for Water and Nutrients

Lavender is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require a lot of water. However, it can still be susceptible to water stress if it is planted near plants that are more demanding of water. Some of the plants that compete with lavender for water include:

• Roses
• Peonies
• Hydrangeas
• Hostas
• Daylilies

These plants all require a lot of water, and they can quickly outcompete lavender for the available water in the soil. If you are planning to plant lavender, it is important to avoid planting it near these types of plants.

Plants That Attract Pests or Diseases That Also Affect Lavender

Lavender is a relatively pest-resistant plant, but there are a few pests that can occasionally attack it. Some of the pests that are attracted to lavender include:

• Aphids
• Spider mites
• Mealybugs
• Whiteflies

These pests can suck sap from the leaves of lavender, which can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. They can also spread diseases between plants. If you are planning to plant lavender, it is important to avoid planting it near plants that are known to attract these pests.

Tips for Avoiding Planting These Plants Near Lavender

If you are concerned about planting plants that compete with lavender for water and nutrients, or that attract pests or diseases, there are a few things you can do to avoid this.

• Choose the right location for your lavender. Lavender does best in full sun and well-drained soil. If you plant it in a shady spot or in soil that is constantly wet, it will be more susceptible to water stress and pests.
• Space your plants appropriately. Lavender plants need plenty of space to grow. If you plant them too close together, they will compete for water and nutrients, and they will be more likely to develop diseases.
• Rotate your crops. Growing the same plants in the same spot year after year can lead to build-up of pests and diseases. To avoid this, rotate your crops by planting lavender in a different spot each year.
• Use mulch. Mulching around your lavender plants can help to conserve water and keep the soil cool. It can also help to deter pests.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your lavender plants are healthy and pest-free. Avoiding planting these plants near lavender will help to give your plants the best chance of success.

Additional Resources

• [The Spruce: How to Grow Lavender](https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-grow-lavender-591368)
• [Gardening Know How: Lavender Pests and Diseases](https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/lavender/lavender-pests-and-diseases.htm)
• [University of California: Lavender](https://ucanr.edu/sites/ipm/info/CROP_PROTECTION/lavender/index.html)

3. Plants That Have Incompatible Soil pH Requirements with Lavender

Lavender is a plant that prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of between 6.0 and 7.0. If the soil pH is too high or too low, lavender will not be able to absorb the nutrients it needs to thrive. This can lead to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and even death.

Some plants that have incompatible soil pH requirements with lavender include:

• Azaleas
• Camellias
• Gardenias
• Hollyhocks
• Hydrangeas
• Rhododendrons
• Roses
• Violets

If you are unsure of the soil pH in your garden, you can test it with a soil pH test kit. You can also amend the soil pH by adding lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower the pH.

4. Plants That Will Overshadow Lavender

Lavender is a low-growing plant that prefers full sun. If it is planted too close to taller plants, it will be shaded out and will not be able to get the sunlight it needs to thrive. This can lead to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and even death.

Some plants that will overshadow lavender include:

• Chrysanthemums
• Dahlias
• Hollyhocks
• Irises
• Peonies
• Roses
• Sunflowers
• Verbenas

If you want to plant lavender in your garden, it is important to choose a location where it will not be overshadowed by taller plants. You can also prune taller plants to create more space for lavender.

When choosing plants to grow near lavender, it is important to consider the plant’s soil pH requirements and its growth habit. By planting compatible plants, you can help your lavender thrive.

What plants should not be planted near lavender?

• Marigolds: Marigolds can compete with lavender for water and nutrients, and their strong scent can overpower the delicate fragrance of lavender.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are susceptible to the same pests and diseases as lavender, and planting them together can increase the risk of infection.
• Basil: Basil and lavender are both members of the mint family, and they can compete for water and nutrients. Basil can also attract pests that can damage lavender plants.
• Rosemary: Rosemary and lavender are both Mediterranean herbs, but they have different water and soil requirements. Rosemary is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-drained soil, while lavender needs more moisture and can tolerate clay soil.
• Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums can produce a chemical called pyrethrum, which can damage lavender plants.

What are the benefits of planting lavender near other plants?

• Lavender can repel pests: The strong fragrance of lavender can deter pests such as aphids, mites, and mosquitoes.
• Lavender can improve soil quality: Lavender helps to improve soil drainage and aeration, and it can also add nutrients to the soil.
• Lavender can attract pollinators: The fragrant flowers of lavender attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
• Lavender can be used as a companion plant: Lavender can be planted near other herbs and vegetables to help deter pests and improve growth.

How far apart should lavender plants be planted?

Lavender plants should be spaced about 1-2 feet apart. This will allow the plants to grow and spread without competing for resources.

How much water does lavender need?

Lavender is a drought-tolerant plant, but it does need regular watering to thrive. Lavender plants should be watered deeply once or twice a week during the summer months. In the winter, watering can be reduced to once a month or less.

What is the best soil for lavender?

Lavender prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0.

How do you prune lavender?

Lavender plants should be pruned in the spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. Lavender can also be pruned to maintain a desired shape or size.

How do you propagate lavender?

Lavender can be propagated by seed, division, or cuttings. Seed propagation is the most difficult method, but it can be successful if the seeds are fresh. Division is the easiest method, and it can be done in the spring or fall. Cuttings are taken from healthy stems in the spring or summer.

What are the common diseases and pests of lavender?

The most common diseases of lavender include powdery mildew, rust, and botrytis blight. The most common pests of lavender include aphids, mites, and mealybugs.

How do you treat diseases and pests of lavender?

Diseases of lavender can be treated with fungicides, and pests can be treated with insecticides. However, it is important to use these products only when necessary, as they can be harmful to the environment. More natural methods of pest control, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, can also be effective.

there are a few things to keep in mind when planting lavender. First, avoid planting it near plants that require a lot of water, as lavender does not like wet feet. Second, avoid planting it near plants that are heavy feeders, as lavender does not need a lot of fertilizer. Third, avoid planting it near plants that are susceptible to pests and diseases, as lavender can attract these problems. By following these tips, you can help your lavender grow healthy and strong.

Here are some key takeaways from the content:

• Lavender does not like wet feet, so avoid planting it near plants that require a lot of water.
• Lavender does not need a lot of fertilizer, so avoid planting it near plants that are heavy feeders.
• Lavender can attract pests and diseases, so avoid planting it near plants that are susceptible to these problems.
• By following these tips, you can help your lavender grow healthy and strong.