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What to plant with basil and cilantro is a question every herb gardener asks at some point.
What to plant with basil and cilantro comes down to companion planting, which helps you grow healthier, more flavorful herbs while naturally repelling pests.
When you know what to plant with basil and cilantro, you can create a thriving garden bed where these two culinary stars support their neighbors instead of competing with them.
In this post, we’ll explore the best companions for basil and cilantro, why certain pairings work so well, and which plants you should keep far away from these aromatic herbs.
Let’s dig into the perfect garden partnerships for your basil and cilantro.
Why Basil and Cilantro Are Great Companion Plants
Basil and cilantro are great companion plants because they attract beneficial insects and repel common garden pests.
When you’re deciding what to plant with basil and cilantro, remember that both herbs have strong scents that confuse and deter aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Basil’s fragrant leaves are especially effective at keeping tomato hornworms away, while cilantro’s lacy foliage invites predatory wasps that feast on destructive caterpillars.
Planting basil and cilantro together also maximizes your garden space since cilantro grows quickly and is harvested early, leaving room for basil to spread out later in the season.
1. Basil and Cilantro Thrive in Similar Conditions
Both basil and cilantro love well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight, which makes them natural bedfellows.
Basil prefers warm weather and full sun, while cilantro does best in cooler spring or fall temperatures with a bit of afternoon shade.
By planting them near each other, you can easily adjust watering and feeding routines to keep both herbs happy.
Just remember that cilantro bolts quickly in intense heat, so stagger your plantings to extend your harvest.
2. Basil Attracts Pollinators While Cilantro Repels Pests
When you’re figuring out what to plant with basil and cilantro, note that basil’s white flowers draw in bees and butterflies that pollinate nearby vegetables.
Cilantro, on the other hand, releases compounds that repel harmful insects like carrot flies and potato beetles.
Together, they create a protective barrier around your entire garden, keeping your tomatoes, peppers, and leafy greens safer from infestations.
This dynamic duo works hard so you don’t have to rely on chemical pesticides.
Best Vegetables to Plant With Basil and Cilantro
The best vegetables to plant with basil and cilantro are those that share similar watering needs and benefit from pest deterrence.
Tomatoes are the classic companion for basil, as basil improves tomato flavor and repels hornworms.
Peppers also love growing near basil because the herb’s strong aroma masks the pepper plants from aphids and thrips.
Cilantro pairs wonderfully with leafy greens like spinach and lettuce, as it provides light shade and attracts beneficial insects that prey on aphids.
Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower are other excellent neighbors for cilantro, since the herb confuses cabbage moths that lay destructive eggs on brassicas.
Carrots and cilantro are a match made in heaven, as cilantro repels carrot flies while improving carrot growth.
1. Tomatoes Love Basil—And Cilantro Helps Too
If you’re wondering what to plant with basil and cilantro, tomatoes should be at the top of your list.
Basil and tomatoes are a legendary pair, both in the garden and on your plate.
Cilantro also benefits tomatoes by attracting hoverflies that eat aphids, so these three make a powerful trio.
Plant basil at the base of tomato stems and cilantro in between rows for maximal pest protection.
2. Peppers and Eggplant Appreciate Basil’s Protection
Peppers and eggplant are heat-lovers that thrive alongside basil, which keeps spider mites and thrips at bay.
Cilantro’s shallow roots won’t compete with these deep-rooted vegetables, making it a safe companion.
This combination ensures you harvest vibrant peppers and glossy eggplants without the usual pest battles.
Herbs and Flowers to Plant With Basil and Cilantro
Herbs and flowers to plant with basil and cilantro include chamomile, chives, and marigolds, which all enhance growth and flavor.
Chamomile is a wonderful companion for both basil and cilantro because it increases essential oil production, making your herbs more aromatic.
Chives repel aphids and add a mild onion flavor to your dishes, so they’re a practical and decorative neighbor.
Marigolds are the ultimate pest repellent, as their roots release chemicals that kill nematodes in the soil.
Nasturtiums are another great choice, as they act as a trap crop, luring aphids away from your basil and cilantro.
Borage is a star companion because it attracts pollinators and adds trace minerals to the soil, benefiting all nearby plants.
1. Marigolds and Nasturtiums Keep Bugs Away
Marigolds and nasturtiums are not just pretty flowers; they’re hardworking pest fighters.
When you’re deciding what to plant with basil and cilantro, these flowers are non-negotiable additions to your garden.
Marigolds repel whiteflies, while nasturtiums lure aphids away from your herbs.
This double defense keeps your basil and cilantro free from sap-sucking insects.
2. Chives and Oregano Boost Flavor and Health
Chives and oregano are fantastic herb companions for basil and cilantro.
Chives improve the flavor of basil, while oregano’s strong scent deters cucumber beetles and other pests.
These herbs also enjoy similar growing conditions, so they won’t compete for resources.
Add them to your herb bed for a culinary powerhouse that’s both beautiful and functional.
What Not to Plant With Basil and Cilantro
What not to plant with basil and cilantro is just as important as what to plant, as some plants hinder growth or attract unwanted pests.
Avoid planting fennel near basil or cilantro, as fennel releases chemicals that inhibit the growth of most herbs and vegetables.
Keep rue away from basil, because rue stunts basil’s growth and can even kill it over time.
Cilantro dislikes being planted near lavender and rosemary, as these Mediterranean herbs prefer drier, sandier soil than cilantro likes.
Also, avoid planting dill near cilantro, as they can cross-pollinate and produce less flavorful seeds.
Finally, keep sage away from cucumbers near your basil bed, as sage can stunt cucumber growth and also compete with basil for nutrients.
So, What to Plant With Basil and Cilantro?
So, what to plant with basil and cilantro is a clear answer: tomatoes, peppers, leafy greens, marigolds, and chives, while avoiding fennel and rue.
When you know what to plant with basil and cilantro, you can design a garden that’s naturally resistant to pests and bursting with flavor.
Basil and cilantro are generous companions that give back to their neighbors, making your vegetable patch more productive and your meals more delicious.
Start with these pairings today and watch your herbs and vegetables thrive side by side.
Happy gardening, and enjoy the bounty of your perfectly paired herb bed.