Companion Plants for Dill: Enhancing the Growth and Flavor

Dill is an aromatic herb that belongs to the celery family, and it has been used in cooking and medicinal purposes for generations. It provides a unique flavor to various dishes and is an excellent addition to any herb garden. However, growing dill can be challenging, and its growth may be limited due to pests and diseases. One way to overcome these challenges is to plant companion plants alongside your dill. Companion planting is an age-old gardening practice that involves planting different crops together to improve yields, deter pests, and enhance flavors. In this guide, we will share some of the best companion plants for dill that you can grow in your garden.

The Best Companion Plants for Dill

Basil

Basil is one of the most popular companion plants for dill due to its ability to repel harmful insects and attract beneficial ones. The scent of basil is believed to mask the aroma of dill, making it less attractive to pests like aphids and spider mites. Additionally, basil contains essential oils that can repel mosquitoes, flies, and other insects that could harm your dill plants. Plant basil seeds around your dill plants or in the same container, and they will grow harmoniously.

Radishes

Radishes are another great companion plant for dill, especially if you have problems with slugs and snails. These pests love to eat young dill seedlings, but they are not attracted to radishes. Plant radish seeds around your dill plants or in between rows, and they will act as a barrier to prevent slugs and snails from reaching your dill. Moreover, radishes are quick-growing plants that can be harvested in just a few weeks, so they won't interfere with the growth of your dill.

Lettuce

Lettuce is an excellent companion plant for dill because it provides shade and helps retain moisture around the base of the dill plant. Dill prefers cool soil and partial shade, especially during hot summer months. Plant lettuce seeds around your dill plants to create a natural mulch that will keep the soil moist and cool. Lettuce also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs, which feed on aphids and other pests that could harm your dill plants.

Onions

Onions are a good companion plant for dill because they repel carrot flies, which are one of the most common pests that attack dill. The strong scent of onions masks the aroma of dill, making it less attractive to carrot flies. Plant onion sets or seedlings around your dill plants or in between rows, and they will act as a natural pest repellent.

Chamomile

Chamomile is an herb that is known for its calming properties and soothing fragrance. It is also a good companion plant for dill because it improves the flavor of dill when planted together. Chamomile releases essential oils that enhance the flavor of dill, making it more aromatic and palatable. Additionally, chamomile attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies, which eat aphids and other pests that could harm your dill plants.

Garlic

Garlic is a natural pest repellent that can protect your dill plants from harmful insects and diseases. The strong odor of garlic masks the aroma of dill, making it less attractive to pests like spider mites and aphids. Plant garlic cloves around your dill plants, or in between rows, and they will act as a natural pest repellent. Garlic also improves the flavor of dill when planted together, making it more aromatic and flavorful.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are an excellent companion plant for dill because they repel pests like aphids and whiteflies, which can damage your dill plants. Tomatoes release a chemical called solanine, which is toxic to these pests, making them less likely to infest your dill. Additionally, tomatoes require similar growing conditions as dill, making them compatible plants. Plant tomato seedlings around your dill plants or in between rows, and they will be beneficial to both plants.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are beautiful flowers that can add color and vibrancy to your garden. They are also great companion plants for dill due to their ability to repel harmful insects like aphids, whiteflies, and cucumber beetles. Nasturtiums have a pungent odor that masks the aroma of dill, making it less attractive to pests. Plant nasturtium seeds around your dill plants or in the same container, and they will grow harmoniously.

Other Companion Plants for Dill

Carrots

Carrots are a good companion plant for dill because they attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on aphids and other pests that could harm your dill plants. Carrots also improve the flavor of dill when planted together, making it more aromatic and flavorful.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are a natural partner for dill because they require similar growing conditions and have complementary flavors. Cucumbers also attract beneficial insects like bees, which are essential for pollinating your dill plants.

Peas

Peas are a good companion plant for dill because they improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen. Additionally, peas provide shade and support for your dill plants, making them grow stronger and healthier.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another beautiful flower that can add color and vibrancy to your garden. They are also great companion plants for dill due to their ability to repel harmful insects like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Marigolds have a pungent odor that masks the aroma of dill, making it less attractive to pests. Plant marigold seeds around your dill plants or in the same container, and they will complement each other's growth.

The Benefits of Companion Planting with Dill

Improved Growth and Yield

Companion planting with dill can improve the growth and yield of your plants. By planting different crops together, you create a diverse ecosystem that supports each other's growth. This diversity can help prevent pests and diseases from attacking your plants, resulting in healthier and more productive plants.

Natural Pest Control

Companion planting with dill can also help control pests and diseases naturally. By planting certain crops together, you can deter harmful insects and attract beneficial ones that feed on pests. This natural pest control method is safer for the environment and does not require the use of harmful chemicals.

Enhanced Flavor

Companion planting with dill can also enhance the flavor of your herbs and vegetables. Certain plants release essential oils that improve the taste and aroma of nearby plants. By planting compatible crops together, you can create a flavorful and aromatic garden.


In companion planting with dill is a great way to improve the growth, flavor, and health of your garden. By planting different crops together, you create a diverse ecosystem that supports each other's growth and helps control pests and diseases naturally. Some of the best companion plants for dill include basil, radishes, lettuce, onions, chamomile, garlic, tomatoes, and nasturtiums. Additionally, carrots, cucumbers, peas, and marigolds are also good companion plants for dill. Remember to experiment with different combinations and see what works best for your garden.

FAQs

1. Can I plant dill with other herbs?

Yes, dill can be planted with other herbs like basil, parsley, chives, and cilantro. These herbs have complementary flavors and growing conditions that make them compatible with dill.

2. Do I need to use organic methods for companion planting with dill?

While organic methods are recommended, it is not necessary to use them for companion planting with dill. However, using pesticides and herbicides can harm your plants and the environment, so it is best to avoid them if possible.

3. How do I know which companion plants are suitable for my dill plants?

You can research online or consult with a gardening expert to determine which companion plants are suitable for your dill plants. Factors like soil type, light exposure, and climate can affect the compatibility of different plants.

4. Can I still use fertilizers when companion planting with dill?

Yes, you can still use fertilizers when companion planting with dill, but it is recommended to use organic fertilizers instead of synthetic ones. Organic fertilizers are safer for the environment and provide nutrients to your plants without harmful chemicals.

5. Can I plant dill near fruit trees?

Yes, you can plant dill near fruit trees like apple and pear trees. Dill's strong aroma can help repel pests that attack fruit trees, making it a natural pest control method.