Growing Rosemary and Basil Together: A Perfect Combination

Are you looking to grow herbs in your garden? If so, consider planting rosemary and basil together. They are not only great companions in the kitchen, but also in the garden. These herbs complement each other's growth habits and create a beautiful combination of fragrances and flavors.

Why Plant Rosemary and Basil Together?

Rosemary and basil are two of the most popular herbs used in cooking. You can use them fresh or dried to add flavor and aroma to your dishes. Here are some reasons why they make great companions in the garden:

Complementary Growth Habits

Rosemary is a perennial herb that grows into a small shrub. It likes full sun and well-drained soil. On the other hand, basil is an annual herb that prefers partial shade and moist soil. By planting them together, you can make the most of your garden space and ensure that both plants thrive.

Pest Control

Basil has been known to repel pests such as mosquitoes, flies, and aphids. Rosemary, on the other hand, is resistant to deer and rabbits. By planting them together, you can create a natural pest control system in your garden.

Flavor Pairing

Rosemary and basil complement each other's flavors in many dishes. For example, you can add rosemary to tomato sauces and grilled meats, while basil pairs well with pasta dishes and salads.

How to Grow Rosemary and Basil Together?

Now that you know why planting rosemary and basil together is a good idea, let's talk about how to do it.

Choosing the Right Location

Rosemary and basil have different growing requirements. Rosemary likes full sun and well-drained soil, while basil prefers partial shade and moist soil. Choose a location that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day and has well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, add some compost to improve drainage.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or rocks. Add some compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil. You can also add some sand or perlite to improve drainage.

Planting the Herbs

Dig a hole for each plant and space them at least 12 inches apart. The hole should be slightly larger than the plant's root ball. Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots. Place the plant in the hole and cover with soil. Water thoroughly.

Watering and Fertilizing

Rosemary and basil have different watering needs. Rosemary likes dry conditions, while basil prefers moist soil. Water the plants deeply once a week and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. You can fertilize the herbs with a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks.

Tips for Growing Rosemary and Basil Together

Here are some tips to help you grow healthy and flavorful rosemary and basil:

Pruning

Prune the herbs regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent them from becoming too leggy. You can use the pruned leaves in your cooking or dry them for later use.

Harvesting

Harvest the herbs frequently to promote new growth and prevent them from going to seed. You can use the leaves fresh or dry them for later use.

Companion Plants

Consider planting other herbs and vegetables that complement rosemary and basil, such as thyme, oregano, tomatoes, and peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can rosemary and basil be planted together in a container?

Yes, you can plant rosemary and basil together in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate both plants. Make sure the container has good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix.

Q2. How often should I water rosemary and basil?

Rosemary and basil have different watering needs. Rosemary likes dry conditions, while basil prefers moist soil. Water the plants deeply once a week and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Q3. How do I prune rosemary and basil?

To prune rosemary, use sharp, clean shears to remove the tips of the stems. You can also remove any dead or yellowing leaves. To prune basil, pinch off the stem tips just above a set of leaves. This will encourage bushy growth.

Q4. What are some recipes that use rosemary and basil?

There are many recipes that use rosemary and basil, such as roasted chicken with rosemary and lemon, tomato and basil bruschetta, and pesto pasta with fresh basil.

Q5. Can I grow rosemary and basil indoors?

Yes, you can grow rosemary and basil indoors as long as they get enough sunlight and are not overwatered. Place them near a sunny window and water them when the top inch of soil is dry.



Planting rosemary and basil together is a great way to make the most of your garden space and create a natural pest control system. These herbs complement each other's growth habits and flavors, making them a perfect combination in the kitchen and the garden. By following these tips, you can grow healthy and flavorful rosemary and basil all season long.