Which plants basil should not grow next to

Basil is widely seen as an easy kitchen herb and is an ideal match for tomatoes, pasta and summer salads. It also has an important place in companion planting in the vegetable patch. However, not every plant makes a suitable neighbour: some take away basil’s water, light or nutrients, while others can even undermine its flavour. Knowing these mistakes helps you avoid disappointing harvests and pale, unhealthy plants.

Why basil does not like every neighbour

Companion planting deliberately combines the qualities of different plants: some attract pollinators, others deter pests or help to loosen the soil. Basil can benefit greatly from this approach, provided its neighbouring plants are well chosen.

“Basil needs plenty of light, enough water, nutrient-rich soil and calm neighbours that do not compete with it for space or flavour.”

When this balance is wrong, the herb quickly falls behind. Plants are especially troublesome if they:

Problematic neighbours for basil

• need exceptionally large amounts of water,