Bad Companion Plants for Blueberries: What Not to Plant Near Your Blueberry Bushes

Why Choosing the Right Companion Plants is Important for Blueberries

Blueberry bushes are not only delicious but also beautiful and easy to grow. However, if you want to get the most out of your blueberry bushes, you need to choose the right companion plants. Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefits. Some plants can help each other by repelling pests, attracting beneficial insects, or providing nutrients. However, some plants can harm each other by competing for resources or attracting pests.

In this blog post, we will discuss bad companion plants for blueberries. We will explore the plants that should not be planted near blueberry bushes, why they are bad companions, and what you can plant instead. By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of how to choose the right companion plants for your blueberry bushes.

The Importance of Companion Planting for Blueberries

Companion planting is an essential aspect of successful blueberry cultivation. Blueberry bushes have specific nutrient requirements and are susceptible to pests and diseases. Companion plants can help maintain soil quality, increase pollination, and repel pests. Additionally, companion plants can provide aesthetic value and improve the overall health of your garden.

When choosing companion plants for blueberries, it's essential to consider the plant's root system, nutrient requirements, and growth habits. For example, blueberries prefer acidic soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5. Therefore, companion plants that require alkaline soil, such as tomatoes or peppers, should not be planted near blueberries.

Bad Companion Plants for Blueberries

There are several plants that should not be planted near blueberry bushes. These plants can harm the blueberry bushes by competing for resources, attracting pests, or releasing harmful chemicals into the soil. Let's take a closer look at some of the bad companion plants for blueberries.

1. Brassicas

Brassicas, including broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, are bad companion plants for blueberries. These plants are heavy feeders and require high levels of nitrogen. Blueberry bushes, on the other hand, require low levels of nitrogen. Planting brassicas near blueberries can cause nitrogen depletion in the soil, which can stunt the growth of blueberry bushes.

2. Nightshades

Nightshades, including tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, should not be planted near blueberry bushes. These plants prefer alkaline soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Blueberries require acidic soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5. Planting nightshades near blueberries can cause soil pH imbalances, which can harm the blueberry bushes' growth.

3. Alliums

Alliums, including onions, garlic, and shallots, are also bad companion plants for blueberries. Alliums release a chemical called allicin, which can inhibit the growth of blueberry bushes. Additionally, alliums can attract onion maggots, which can harm blueberry bushes.

4. Legumes

Legumes, including beans and peas, should not be planted near blueberry bushes. These plants fix nitrogen in the soil, which can lead to an excess of nitrogen. Blueberry bushes require low levels of nitrogen, and excessive nitrogen can harm the bushes' growth.

5. Corn

Corn is another bad companion plant for blueberries. Corn requires a lot of nitrogen and can deplete soil nutrients. Additionally, corn can attract corn earworms, which can harm blueberry bushes.

Good Companion Plants for Blueberries

Now that we've discussed the bad companion plants for blueberries let's explore some good companion plants. These plants can help repel pests, provide nutrients, and improve soil quality.

1. Azaleas

Azaleas are excellent companion plants for blueberries. They prefer acidic soil and can help maintain soil pH. Additionally, azaleas can attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which can improve blueberry bush pollination.

2. Ferns

Ferns are another good companion plant for blueberries. They can help retain moisture in the soil and provide shade to blueberry bushes. Additionally, ferns can provide aesthetic value and improve the overall appearance of your garden.

3. Rhododendrons

Rhododendrons are excellent companion plants for blueberries. They prefer acidic soil and can help maintain soil pH. Additionally, rhododendrons can attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pests.

4. Strawberries

Strawberries are also good companion plants for blueberries. They have similar soil requirements and can help maintain soil quality. Additionally, strawberries can attract pollinators, which can improve blueberry bush pollination.

5. Wildflowers

Wildflowers are another good companion plant for blueberries. They can attract beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, which can help control pests. Additionally, wildflowers can provide aesthetic value and improve the overall appearance of your garden.



Choosing the right companion plants for blueberries is essential for successful cultivation. Bad companion plants, such as brassicas, nightshades, alliums, legumes, and corn, can harm blueberry bushes by competing for resources, attracting pests, or releasing harmful chemicals into the soil. On the other hand, good companion plants, such as azaleas, ferns, rhododendrons, strawberries, and wildflowers, can repel pests, provide nutrients, and improve soil quality. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your blueberry bushes thrive and produce delicious fruit.

FAQs

1. Can I plant blueberries near other berries?

Yes, blueberries can be planted near other berries, such as raspberries and blackberries. However, it's essential to consider the soil requirements and growth habits of each plant.

2. Can I plant blueberries near trees?

Blueberries can be planted near trees, but it's essential to consider the tree's root system and nutrient requirements. Additionally, trees can provide shade, which can be beneficial for blueberry bushes.

3. Can I plant blueberries near herbs?

Yes, blueberries can be planted near herbs, such as thyme and basil. Herbs can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects, which can benefit blueberry bushes.

4. How often should I water my blueberry bushes?

Blueberry bushes require regular watering, especially during the growing season. It's recommended to water blueberry bushes deeply once a week, depending on weather conditions.

5. When is the best time to plant blueberry bushes?

The best time to plant blueberry bushes is in the early spring or fall when the soil is moist and cool. Avoid planting blueberry bushes during hot summer months.