Last Updated on June 14, 2025 by Jocelyn
Oregano is a strong, low-maintenance herb. It grows well in full sun and doesn’t need much water once established. Because of its scent and sturdy nature, it pairs well with many herbs and vegetables.
It works best near plants that like the same growing conditions. In particular, oregano grows well beside basil, thyme, tomatoes, and peppers. These plants benefit from the way oregano helps reduce common garden pests.
In my own garden, I’ve seen the results. The plants look healthier and stay more stable throughout the season. Oregano doesn’t take up much space, but it helps create a cleaner and more productive growing area.
The 9 Best Oregano Companion Plants
Oregano is a great companion because it primarily secretes substances from its roots and leaves that act as a natural pest control. Its strong scent masks the odors of neighboring plants, making it harder for pests to find their targets.
Oregano also attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which are vital for the pollination of many crops.
This herb requires similar growing conditions to many popular vegetables and other herbs, making it easy to integrate into a diverse garden without competing for resources.
Incorporating oregano into your garden enhances the health and yield of your plants and promotes a more balanced ecosystem.
To learn more about companion planting, check out my guides:
1. Basil
Basil is a fantastic herb that belongs to the mint family and thrives in similar growing conditions as other herbs like oregano. It loves full sun and well-drained soil.
Basil can attract beneficial insects like bees that help with pollination. This makes it a great addition to any garden, not just for its flavor but for its functionality.
Genovese basil is a popular variety known for its large leaves and rich flavor, perfect for tomato dishes.
Its aromatic leaves add a wonderful scent to the garden and the kitchen. Beyond its culinary appeal, basil offers numerous benefits to the garden ecosystem.
It can repel whiteflies, mosquitoes, spider mites, and aphids. Planting basil with tomatoes, peppers, purslane, and lettuce not only enhances the garden’s productivity but also adds to its overall beauty and health.
Its versatility and functionality make basil a must-have in any garden.
2. Thyme
Thyme is a great companion plant for oregano in your garden. Both herbs thrive in Mediterranean climates with well-drained soil and full sun. Planting these herbs together can boost their growth and flavor.
They need similar care, so you can easily interplant them. Thyme helps attract parasitic wasps which control pests and protect your vegetable crops. This natural pest control can improve the overall health of your garden.
Thyme can grow in sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0 and requires moderate moisture. Its compact foliage doesn’t overshadow neighboring plants, making it an ideal partner for oregano.
Together, they create a rich environment for beneficial insects and enhance biodiversity.
3. Rosemary
Growing oregano alongside rosemary can be a smart choice. Both herbs thrive in well-drained soil and enjoy full sun, making them perfect partners in your garden.
Rosemary has a strong aroma that can deter pests that might otherwise target your oregano plants. Plus, rosemary attracts beneficial insects like bees, enhancing the overall garden environment.
In my experience, the Tuscan Blue Rosemary variety is a top pick. It has vivid flowers and a tall, upright growth habit. This variety is drought-tolerant and pairs well with other Mediterranean herbs.
Rosemary flourishes in well-drained, sandy soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. It nurtures its aromatic foliage and robust growth with full sunlight and moderate moisture.
Rosemary provides invaluable benefits to neighboring plants by repelling pests, attracting beneficial insects, and enhancing overall garden biodiversity.
This makes it an excellent companion for your oregano, ensuring a thriving and healthy garden space.
4. Sage
Sage is a wonderful companion plant for oregano. Both thrive in full sun and share similar soil needs, making them easy to grow together. Sage can attract beneficial insects, adding to the diversity of helpful insects in your garden.
One popular type is Garden Sage or Salvia officinalis, often called culinary sage. It has gray-green leaves that are very aromatic and grow well in the same conditions as oregano.
Common Sage is also very adaptable, growing well in various soil conditions like well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil. It flourishes with full sunlight and moderate moisture, producing aromatic foliage and sturdy growth.
5. Cabbage
Cabbage is a versatile plant that thrives in various soil conditions. It does well in well-drained soil that’s enriched with compost and can adapt to pH levels that are slightly acidic to neutral.
Providing adequate moisture and sunlight is key to foster robust growth and ample foliage.
Cabbage belongs to the Brassicaceae family, sharing the garden domain with companions like kale and Brussels sprouts. These plants epitomize culinary versatility and natural elegance.
A recommended variety of cabbage is the Golden Acre. This reliable, early type produces compact heads and is resistant to yellow disease. Additionally, the different growing heights of cabbage and its companions can help maximize space in the garden.
The aroma of companion plants like oregano can mask the scent of cabbage, making it less attractive to pests like cabbage moths, thus providing additional benefits for a healthier garden.
6. Tomatoes
Tomato plants can benefit a lot from growing with oregano. Oregano’s natural ability to repel certain pests can protect tomato plants that are often prone to pest attacks. This makes them a perfect match for your garden.
When planted together, oregano helps repel pests that could harm the tomato plants. This makes growing tomatoes easier and helps them stay healthy.
Also, both plants need similar amounts of water and nutrients, which makes them easy to care for.
Additionally, oregano adds great flavor to Italian and Mediterranean dishes. So, having fresh oregano in your kitchen is fantastic for making delicious recipes.
7. Strawberry
Growing strawberries is a delightful experience, especially if you understand their needs. These sweet berries flourish in loamy soil with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5.
They require full sunlight and consistent moisture to produce their delicate fruits and maintain lush foliage.
Strawberries are excellent neighboring plants because they attract pollinators and help suppress weed growth with their dense foliage.
This not only benefits the strawberries themselves but also improves the overall health and productivity of the garden.
8. Asparagus
When growing oregano, it’s great to consider companion plants like asparagus. Asparagus is known for its tender spears and nutritional prowess, making it a wonderful companion in your gardening efforts.
This stalwart sentinel flourishes in well-drained, sandy soil with ample sunlight. As a perennial delight, it thrives in environments where winters are cold and summers are warm.
It truly embodies the essence of verdant vitality, making your garden not only beautiful but also productive.
9. Lavender
When planting oregano, consider lavender as a perfect companion. Lavender thrives in various soil conditions, especially in well-drained, alkaline soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
It needs full sunlight and good air circulation to nurture its delicate flowers and aromatic foliage.
Lavender offers invaluable benefits to neighboring plants by repelling pests and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
It also promotes relaxation and tranquility in the garden environment. Belonging to the Lamiaceae family along with esteemed companions like rosemary and mint.
Plants to Avoid as Oregano Companions
When planting oregano, it is important to consider companion compatibility. Not all plants grow well together, as some compete for the same nutrients and water, which can hinder each other’s development.
Incompatible plants may also attract pests that harm oregano or affect its flavor. These are known as enemy plants and should be planted away from oregano to avoid negative effects on its growth.
1. Cucumbers
Growing cucumbers can be an exciting garden adventure, especially when you consider how they interact with companion plants like oregano.
You see, cucumbers have excessive watering needs – they really do love their water. But this can cause root rot for oregano. Oregano, on the other hand, prefers well-drained soil, keeping its roots cozy and dry.
For cucumbers to thrive, they need consistent moisture and plenty of sunlight. These conditions support vigorous vine growth and lead to abundant fruiting.
So, while cucumbers and oregano might have different watering needs, with the right balance and care, you can have a flourishing garden filled with both.
2. Mint
When considering companion plants for oregano, it’s important to know that mint is a relative of oregano. They share similar growing requirements, making them potential companions.
But, be aware! Mint can be an aggressive grower. It grows quickly and can spread, potentially crowding out not only oregano but other plants too.
So, while mint and oregano can coexist, make sure to give mint its own space to prevent it from overpowering your oregano and other plants in your garden.
3. Watermelon
In the world of oregano companion plants, watermelons present an interesting case. Much like cucumbers, watermelons require lots of water, making them a poor companion for our drought-tolerant plants like oregano.
Yet, the watermelon’s ability to thrive in various soil conditions and its flourishing nature in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 6.8 makes it a fascinating plant.
These fruits love full sunlight and ample space to nurture their sprawling vines and produce juicy fruiting.
Interestingly, watermelons can provide invaluable benefits to neighboring plants. They do so by shading the soil, which helps in conserving moisture.
Further, they contribute to enriching the soil with organic matter as their vines decompose. So, while watermelons and oregano have different needs, they can coexist in a garden with careful planning and understanding.
4. Corn
Corn, which is a heavy feeder that competes for soil nutrients. This competition potentially deprives the oregano of its essential nutrients. It’s crucial to remember oregano’s needs when considering corn as a companion.
Moreover, the height of corn plants can pose a challenge, as they may shade the oregano, depriving it of the full sun it prefers.
Therefore, while corn and oregano can share a garden, careful planning is necessary to ensure each plant’s needs are met without compromising the other’s growth and health.
5. Potatoes
When planning a productive garden, it’s crucial to consider the companions of each plant. Potatoes thrive in acidic soil, whereas oregano prefers a slightly alkaline to neutral pH range.
If not carefully managed, these incompatible needs can inadvertently affect your plants’ health.
Potatoes are also susceptible to a disease called blight, which, if left unchecked, could unintentionally harm your oregano. To avoid these common gardening pitfalls, it’s important to carefully consider the placement of your plants.
The Benefits of Oregano Companion Plants
Growing oregano with other plants in your garden can bring many benefits. Let’s explore these benefits in more detail.
Attracting Beneficial Insects
Companion planting with oregano helps bring in beneficial insects to your garden space. Oregano flowers have a strong scent that attracts pollinators like bees. They also draw in predators such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps.
These insects help keep your garden healthy by eating harmful pests. Thyme and basil are great herbs to plant with oregano because they also attract beneficial insects.
Repelling Pests
Oregano leaves have aromatic oils that act as a natural insect repellent. This helps keep away pests like aphids and spider mites.
Planting rosemary and sage with oregano can further help because their strong scents also deter pests. This makes your herb garden healthier and reduces the need for chemical pesticides.
Enhancing Flavor
When you grow certain herbs together, they can improve each other’s flavor profile. Oregano’s robust flavor is complemented by basil and thyme.
This makes them perfect for culinary dishes. Your herb garden becomes a great source of fresh seasoning.
Optimizing Growing Conditions
Oregano needs well-drained soil, full sun, and the right amount of water. Thyme, basil, and rosemary share similar growing conditions, making it easier to care for them together.
This can help you streamline watering and fertilizing schedules, leading to a thriving garden.
Improving Soil Health
Companion planting can also boost soil health. Different plants have unique root structures and nutrient requirements. Leguminous plants, for example, fix nitrogen in the soil, which helps other plants grow.
This reduces soil erosion and helps in suppressing weeds. Oregano benefits from this by getting better nutrient uptake and creating a balanced ecosystem.
Reducing Competition
Oregano and its companions can help each other by using resources more efficiently. This means less competition for light, water, and nutrients. Intercropping plants with different growth habits and maturity rates allows for healthier plant growth. This maximizes space in your garden, even if you have limited space.
Increasing Biodiversity and Resilience
Planting a variety of species together increases biodiversity. A diverse garden is more resilient to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses.
Oregano and its companions help create a sustainable garden ecosystem that can withstand more challenges than a single-crop garden.
Maximizing Space
By planting oregano with other plants that have different growth habits and maturity rates, you can maximize yield per square foot. This efficient land use is perfect for getting the most out of your garden area.
Tips for Successful Oregano Companion Planting
Planting oregano with other herbs can help your garden thrive. With some planning and care, you can ensure your oregano and its companions grow well together.
Here are some tips to make sure your plants stay healthy and strong.
| Topic | Tips |
| Soil Preparation | Use well-drained soil with organic matter like compost. |
| Proper Spacing | Space oregano, basil, and thyme 18-24 inches apart. |
| Sunlight Needs | Water when the soil is dry to avoid root rot; use rainwater from a water butt. |
| Watering Schedule | Water when soil is dry to avoid root rot; use rainwater from a water butt. |
| Fertilizing | Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the start of the growing season. |
| Pest Control | Regularly check for pests; companion planting helps reduce chemical pesticides. |
| Harvesting | Harvest above a set of leaves to promote more growth. |
FAQ‘s
Q: What Herb Grows Well With Oregano?
A: I love growing oregano in my garden because it pairs so well with other herbs. Basil is great with oregano and so are chives, parsley, and rosemary.
If you want a bit more variety, try sage, savory, and thyme. These herbs not only thrive together but also enhance the flavor of your dishes.
Q: Is Oregano a Good Companion Plant for Peppers?
A: Oregano grows well with peppers, covering soil and complementing dishes. It helps maintain soil health and enhances harvesting and cooking experiences.
Q: Where Is the Best Place to Plant Oregano?
A: Seed-raised and newly bought oregano plants should be moved outdoors in late spring or summer, after the last frost.
They need a warm, sunny, and sheltered spot with well-drained soil or a container. If the soil is heavy or damp, use a raised bed or container for better drainage.
Q: What Is the Easiest and Fastest Herb to Grow?
A: In my experience, Dill is one of the quickest-growing herbs. From sprout to harvest, it takes about 40 days. Although Dill might not be as famous as other herbs, it’s surprisingly versatile and useful in many dishes.
Q: How Long Does Oregano Take to Grow?
A: Oregano plants attain maturity in 80-90 days after sowing seeds, but you can start harvesting leaves in as little as 6-8 weeks.
Conclusion
Planting oregano with other plants can help your garden thrive. These plants not only help each other grow but also repel pests that can harm your garden.
For example, basil and oregano can keep away aphids, and rosemary helps deter bugs that damage vegetables. Growing these plants together makes your garden healthier and keeps it natural and chemical-free.
My own garden has shown that pairing oregano with its companion plants works wonders. I’ve noticed fewer pests on my tomato plants, and the chives seem to grow better next to oregano. This combination not only looks beautiful but also helps in pest control naturally.
If you want a successful garden, consider planting oregano with these companions. They can make your garden more vibrant and easier to manage.
Explore my other guides to companion planting:
