Companion Planting for Strawberries: A Guide to Boosting Yields and Reducing Pests

Are you a strawberry lover who wants to grow your own berries at home? If so, then you know how important it is to optimize your growing conditions for maximum yields. One way to do that is through companion planting. By planting certain plants alongside your strawberries, you can create a more diverse and resilient ecosystem that supports healthy growth and minimizes pest problems.

The Benefits of Companion Planting for Strawberries

Companion planting has been used for centuries by farmers and gardeners around the world. The basic principle behind it is that certain plants have natural synergies that benefit each other when grown together. Here are some of the benefits of companion planting for strawberries:

Increase pollination:

Some plants attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help increase the number of flowers that get fertilized on your strawberry plants, leading to larger yields.

Improve soil health:

Certain plants have deep roots that can help break up compacted soil and bring nutrients up to the surface, making them available to your strawberries.

Reduce pests:

Some plants have natural pest-repelling properties that can help keep harmful insects away from your strawberries.

Best Companion Plants for Strawberries

Now that you know the benefits of companion planting, let's take a look at some of the best plants to grow alongside your strawberries. Keep in mind that not all of these plants will work well in every climate or soil type, so be sure to do your research before planting.

1. Borage

Borage is an annual herb that attracts bees and other pollinators with its pretty blue flowers. It's also a good companion plant for strawberries because it has deep roots that can help break up hard soil and bring nutrients to the surface. Plus, borage leaves contain compounds that repel certain pests like tomato hornworms and cabbage worms.

2. Chamomile

Chamomile is another annual herb that attracts pollinators and has a soothing aroma that can help repel certain pests. Its shallow roots won't compete with your strawberries for nutrients or water, making it an ideal companion plant.

3. Chives

Chives are a perennial herb that produce pretty purple flowers that attract pollinators. They also contain sulfur compounds that can help repel harmful insects like aphids and spider mites.

4. Garlic

Garlic is a natural pest repellent that can help keep aphids, spider mites, and other harmful insects away from your strawberries. It also has anti-fungal properties that can help prevent fungal diseases from taking hold in your garden.

5. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a popular companion plant for strawberries because they have bright orange or yellow flowers that attract pollinators and their leaves contain compounds that repel certain pests like whiteflies and aphids.

6. Oregano

Oregano is a perennial herb that has strong anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that can help protect your strawberries from disease. It also attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps that prey on harmful insects.

7. Sage

Sage is a perennial herb that has a strong aroma that can help repel certain pests like cabbage moths and carrot flies. It's also a good companion plant for strawberries because it attracts beneficial insects like bees and parasitic wasps.

8. Thyme

Thyme is a perennial herb that has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that can help keep your strawberries healthy. It's also a natural pest repellent that can help keep harmful insects away.

9. Yarrow

Yarrow is a perennial herb that has pretty white or yellow flowers that attract pollinators. Its leaves contain compounds that can help repel certain pests like aphids and spider mites.

10. Marigolds

Marigolds are annual flowers that have bright orange or yellow blooms that attract pollinators. They're also a natural pest repellent that can help keep harmful insects away from your strawberries.

How to Plant Companion Plants with Strawberries

Step 1: Choose the right plants

Choose companion plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil type, and that have natural synergies with strawberries.

Step 2: Plan your garden layout

Plan out where you want to plant your strawberries and companion plants in your garden, taking into account factors like sunlight, water availability, and soil quality.

Step 3: Plant your strawberries first

Plant your strawberry plants first, leaving enough space between them for your companion plants to grow.

Step 4: Add your companion plants

Plant your companion plants around your strawberries, making sure to leave enough space for them to grow without competing with your strawberries for nutrients or water.

Step 5: Mulch and water regularly

Mulch your garden with organic matter like straw or leaves to help retain moisture and prevent weeds. Water your plants regularly to keep them healthy and hydrated.

FAQs

1. Can I grow strawberries and tomatoes together?

Yes, you can grow strawberries and tomatoes together, but it's not recommended because they both require different soil conditions and nutrient levels. It's best to plant them separately.

2. Can I plant mint with strawberries?

No, you shouldn't plant mint with strawberries because mint is an aggressive plant that can overtake your strawberry patch and compete for resources.

3. What are some other benefits of companion planting?

Companion planting can help improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and reduce pest problems in your garden. It can also lead to higher yields and a more diverse crop.

4. Can I grow strawberries in containers?

Yes, you can grow strawberries in containers as long as you choose a container that's large enough for the plant to grow and has good drainage.

5. When should I plant my companion plants with my strawberries?

You should plant your companion plants at the same time as your strawberries, making sure to leave enough space between them for the plants to grow.


Companion planting is a great way to improve the health and yields of your strawberry plants while reducing pest problems. By choosing the right companion plants and planting them strategically, you can create a more diverse and resilient ecosystem in your garden that supports healthy growth and minimizes pests. Keep in mind that not all companion plants will work well in every climate or soil type, so be sure to do your research before planting. Happy gardening!