What Not to Plant with Thyme: A Guide to Companion Planting

Thyme is a popular herb that is used in cooking, but it can also be used in landscaping. When planting thyme, it is important to know what not to plant with it. Some plants can compete with thyme for water and nutrients, while others can attract pests or diseases. In this article, we will discuss what not to plant with thyme so that you can create a beautiful and healthy garden.

What Not To Plant With Thyme?

| Plant | Reason |
|—|—|
| Mint | Mint and thyme are both Mediterranean herbs that like similar growing conditions, so they can compete for resources. |
| Basil | Basil and thyme both have strong flavors, so they can overpower each other’s taste. |
| Rosemary | Rosemary and thyme are both woody herbs that can become overcrowded if planted too close together. |
| Chives | Chives and thyme both have shallow roots, so they can compete for water and nutrients. |

Plants that compete with thyme for water and nutrients

Thyme is a relatively low-maintenance herb, but it does require some basic care in order to thrive. One of the most important things you can do for your thyme plants is to make sure they are not competing with other plants for water and nutrients.

Here are a few plants that you should avoid planting near thyme:

  • Cucumbers. Cucumbers are heavy feeders and will quickly outcompete thyme for water and nutrients. If you want to grow cucumbers in your garden, it is best to plant them in a separate area away from your thyme plants.
  • Tomatoes. Tomatoes are also heavy feeders and can compete with thyme for water and nutrients. If you do decide to plant tomatoes near thyme, make sure to give the tomatoes plenty of water and fertilizer so that they do not outcompete the thyme.
  • Peppers. Peppers are another type of plant that can compete with thyme for water and nutrients. Peppers are also susceptible to the same pests and diseases as thyme, so it is best to avoid planting them near each other.
  • Basil. Basil is a popular herb that is often planted near thyme. However, basil can be a bit aggressive and may end up crowding out the thyme. If you do decide to plant basil near thyme, make sure to give the basil plenty of space so that it does not smother the thyme.

Plants that attract pests or diseases that can also harm thyme

In addition to competing for water and nutrients, some plants can also attract pests or diseases that can harm thyme. Here are a few plants that you should avoid planting near thyme:

  • Marigolds. Marigolds are known to attract aphids, which can be a serious pest for thyme. If you want to grow marigolds in your garden, it is best to plant them in a separate area away from your thyme plants.
  • Nasturtiums. Nasturtiums are another type of plant that attracts aphids. They can also attract other pests, such as flea beetles and whiteflies. If you do decide to grow nasturtiums near thyme, make sure to keep an eye on the plants for signs of pests.
  • Chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemums are a type of flower that is known to attract powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause damage to thyme plants. If you want to grow chrysanthemums in your garden, it is best to plant them in a separate area away from your thyme plants.
  • Peonies. Peonies are a type of flower that is known to attract thrips. Thrips are small insects that can cause damage to thyme plants. If you want to grow peonies near thyme, make sure to keep an eye on the plants for signs of thrips.

By avoiding planting these plants near your thyme, you can help to ensure that your thyme plants stay healthy and productive.

Thyme is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your thyme plants thrive and produce a bountiful harvest.

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What Not to Plant With Thyme?

  • Thyme and mint should not be planted together because they compete for the same resources, such as water and nutrients. This can lead to both plants being stunted and unhealthy.
  • Thyme and basil should not be planted together because basil can attract pests that also target thyme, such as aphids and spider mites.
  • Thyme and rosemary should not be planted together because they both require full sun and well-drained soil. If they are planted too close together, they will compete for resources and neither plant will thrive.
  • Thyme and sage should not be planted together because sage can inhibit the growth of thyme.

Here are some tips for planting thyme with other herbs:

  • Choose herbs that have different water and nutrient requirements.
  • Plant herbs that are not susceptible to the same pests.
  • Space herbs out so that they have enough room to grow.
  • Avoid planting herbs that are known to inhibit each other’s growth.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and healthy herb garden that includes thyme.

there are a few things you should avoid planting with thyme. These include plants that are susceptible to the same pests and diseases as thyme, as well as plants that require different soil conditions or watering needs. By taking these factors into consideration, you can help to ensure that your thyme plants thrive and produce delicious, flavorful herbs for years to come.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.