Strawberries are a delicious, versatile fruit that can be grown in gardens, raised beds, and containers.
However, like all plants, they thrive best when paired with the right companions.
Companion planting is the practice of growing plants together to enhance growth, deter pests, and improve yield.
If you want to grow healthier, more productive strawberry plants, choosing the right companion plants is key.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The 11 best strawberry companion plants
- Why these plants help strawberries thrive
- Which plants to avoid (they can harm strawberry growth!)
- Bonus tips for maximizing your strawberry harvest
Let’s dive into the world of strawberry companion planting!
What is Companion Planting and Why It Works?
Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves growing certain plants together for mutual benefits.
The right companion plants can:
- Repel pests – Some plants deter aphids, slugs, and other strawberry-loving insects.
- Improve soil nutrients – Certain plants fix nitrogen, making the soil more fertile.
- Attract pollinators – Flowers and herbs bring in bees and butterflies to boost fruit production.
- Provide shade & ground cover – Helps retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
- Suppress weeds – Some plants help prevent weeds from competing with strawberries.
Now that we understand the benefits, let’s explore the best companion plants for strawberries!
11 Best Strawberry Companion Plants
1. Borage (Borago officinalis)
- Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Repels pests like hornworms and Japanese beetles.
- Improves soil health with trace minerals.
Tip: Borage is an annual herb that can be grown near strawberries to encourage better fruit production and natural pest control.
2. Garlic
- Repels aphids, spider mites, and nematodes.
- Protects against fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew.
- Has antibacterial properties that can prevent root rot.
Tip: Plant garlic cloves between strawberry rows to deter pests and keep plants disease-free.
3. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)
- Repels aphids, Japanese beetles, and spider mites.
- Improves strawberry flavor.
- Encourages pollinators with its purple flowers.
Tip: Chives are perennial herbs that require little maintenance—just trim and enjoy!
4. Spinach & Lettuce
- Provides ground cover, preventing soil from drying out.
- Reduces weed growth, leaving more nutrients for strawberries.
- Does not compete for nutrients, making them perfect neighbors.
Tip: Plant leafy greens between strawberry rows for a mutually beneficial relationship.
5. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
- Repels worms, weevils, and slugs.
- Improves soil fertility.
- Enhances strawberry growth and flavor.
Tip: Allow thyme to spread along the edges of your strawberry patch for natural pest control.
6. Marigolds (Tagetes)
- Repels nematodes, whiteflies, and aphids.
- Attracts pollinators for increased strawberry yield.
- Suppresses harmful weeds.
Tip: French marigolds are particularly effective at deterring pests.
7. Beans & Peas
- Fix nitrogen in the soil, improving fertility for strawberries.
- Attracts beneficial insects.
- Adds natural mulch when leaves fall and break down.
Tip: Grow bush beans or snap peas near strawberries for the best results.
8. Carrots
- Breaks up compacted soil, improving root growth.
- Does not compete with strawberries for nutrients.
- Keeps soil cool and reduces moisture loss.
Tip: Space carrots at least 12 inches away to prevent overcrowding.
9. Basil
- Repels mosquitoes, whiteflies, and aphids.
- Enhances the taste of strawberries.
- Promotes strong plant growth.
Tip: Basil also pairs well with tomatoes, making it a great herb for diverse garden beds.
10. Nasturtiums
- Repel aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites.
- Attract beneficial insects like ladybugs.
- Provides edible flowers that can be used in salads.
Tip: Plant nasturtiums along the edge of your strawberry bed for the best pest control.
11. Asparagus
- Grows deep roots that loosen soil, allowing strawberries to spread easily.
- Repels nematodes and aphids.
- Does not compete for nutrients with strawberries.
Tip: Alternate asparagus and strawberry rows for an efficient, space-saving garden.
Plants to Avoid Growing Near Strawberries
Not all plants make good neighbors! Some compete for nutrients, attract pests, or increase disease risk.
Avoid planting strawberries near these:
1. Cabbage, Broccoli, & Cauliflower (Brassicas)
- Competes with strawberries for nutrients.
- Attracts pests like cabbage worms.
Alternative: Grow strawberries away from brassicas to prevent stunted growth.
2. Tomatoes, Peppers, & Eggplants
- Attract similar pests, including spider mites and aphids.
- Increase the risk of fungal diseases like verticillium wilt.
Alternative: Keep nightshades in a separate area of your garden.
3. Potatoes
- Prone to blight, which can spread to strawberries.
- Competes for nutrients, reducing fruit production.
Alternative: Plant potatoes and strawberries in different beds.
4. Fennel
- Inhibits strawberry growth by releasing chemicals into the soil.
- Can stunt fruit production.
Alternative: Keep fennel in a separate herb garden.
5. Melons & Pumpkins
- Vine-like growth can smother strawberries.
- Attracts similar pests, leading to infestations.
Alternative: Grow melons far away from strawberries.
Tips for Maximizing Your Strawberry Harvest
- Rotate crops each year to prevent soil depletion.
- Use mulch (like straw or pine needles) to keep moisture levels stable.
- Water consistently, but avoid overwatering.
- Encourage pollinators by planting marigolds and borage nearby.
By choosing the right companion plants, you can boost strawberry production, reduce pests, and improve soil health.
Here’s a quick recap:
Best companion plants: Borage, garlic, chives, basil, lettuce, spinach, carrots, beans, nasturtiums, marigolds, and thyme.
Plants to avoid: Brassicas, tomatoes, potatoes, fennel, melons, and pumpkins.
Now that you know which plants to grow alongside strawberries, get ready for a thriving, delicious harvest!
