Basil Companion Plants
Basil is a tender, warmth-loving herb, usually best in pots or under glass in much of the UK. It is traditionally paired with tomatoes, though evidence that it improves flavour, yield or pest control is limited. Grow it where air circulation is good, and harvest little and often once plants are established.
Good companions for Basil
| Plant | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | A classic warm greenhouse pairing; both appreciate regular watering, bright light and sheltered conditions, rather than any proven pest-control effect. |
| Aubergines | Basil can sit in a separate pot beside aubergines under glass, making efficient use of warmth without competing heavily for root space. |
| Peppers | Peppers and potted basil suit similar warm, protected positions; keeping them separately potted makes watering and feeding easier to tailor. |
| French marigolds | Small French marigolds add flowers for insects around greenhouse entrances, although their ability to protect basil from pests is not proven. |
| Spring onions | Spring onions are compact enough for nearby containers and provide a useful second edible crop where basil receives plenty of sun. |
| Rocket | Rocket can be harvested quickly from a neighbouring container before basil reaches full size, provided each plant has enough light and water. |
Keep Basil away from
| Plant | Why to separate them |
|---|---|
| Sage | Sage prefers drier compost and less frequent watering than basil, so sharing a container usually makes care awkward. |
| Rosemary | Rosemary needs sharp drainage and comparatively dry roots; basil is less tolerant of drought and cool conditions. |
| Mint | Mint spreads vigorously and likes reliably moist compost, making it an unsuitable long-term container companion for basil. |
Tips
Sow or buy plants after cold nights have passed, then keep basil above 10°C where possible. Use a free-draining potting mix and water the compost rather than soaking leaves. Pinch out flowering tips to encourage leafy growth. In a greenhouse, give pots space around tomatoes or aubergines so humidity does not linger.
Basil companion planting: frequently asked questions
What are good companion plants for basil?
Good companions for basil include Tomatoes, Aubergines, Peppers, French marigolds, Spring onions, Rocket.
What should you not plant near basil?
Keep basil away from Sage, Rosemary, Mint.
How does companion planting help basil?
Basil is a tender, warmth-loving herb, usually best in pots or under glass in much of the UK.
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Companion planting is a traditional practice; results vary with your climate, soil and garden. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.