Strawberries are among the most rewarding crops to grow, producing sweet, juicy harvests in even small gardens. But like many fruiting plants, they are vulnerable to pests, diseases, and nutrient stress. Companion planting offers a natural way to boost strawberry health and yields by pairing them with supportive plants that deter pests, enrich soil, and attract pollinators. With the right companions, you can encourage stronger growth, healthier plants, and ultimately more fruit.
Why Companion Planting Works for Strawberries
Strawberries are shallow-rooted, making them sensitive to competition and soil conditions. The right companions:
- Deter pests like slugs, aphids, and nematodes.
- Attract pollinators that improve fruit set.
- Enhance soil fertility with nitrogen-fixing plants or organic matter.
- Provide groundcover or shade to regulate soil temperature and moisture.
- Increase biodiversity to reduce disease pressure.
Best Companions for Strawberries
Aromatic Herbs
- Borage: One of the best companions for strawberries. Its star-shaped flowers attract pollinators, and it deters pests like tomato hornworms. Borage also enriches soil with trace minerals.
- Thyme: Acts as a fragrant groundcover that repels worms and beetles. Its flowers attract bees in spring.
- Chives: Their strong aroma deters aphids and nematodes, while blooms support pollinators.
- Sage: Repels slugs and beetles when planted nearby.
Flowers
- Marigolds: Deter nematodes in the soil and repel aphids. Their bright blooms also bring in pollinators.
- Nasturtiums: Work as a trap crop for aphids, drawing pests away from strawberries while adding beauty.
- Lavender: Provides fragrance, repels moths, and attracts bees and butterflies.
Vegetables and Greens
- Spinach and Lettuce: Shallow-rooted greens grow well in between strawberries, acting as living mulch to cool the soil and suppress weeds.
- Bush Beans: Fix nitrogen in the soil, boosting fertility for strawberries. Their upright growth minimizes competition.
- Garlic and Onions: Repel pests like aphids and weevils without competing heavily for nutrients.
Fruit-Bearing Companions
- Rhubarb: Large leaves provide shade for strawberry beds, keeping soil moist and cool.
- Blueberries: Thrive in similar acidic soil and share pollinator activity, making them excellent long-term partners.
Plants to Avoid with Strawberries
Some plants compete too strongly or attract harmful pests. Avoid pairing strawberries with:
- Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli, Kale): Compete for nutrients and attract pests that harm strawberries.
- Nightshades (Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants): Share soil-borne diseases that can weaken strawberry plants.
- Melons: Heavy feeders that crowd strawberries and attract pests like aphids and beetles.
Companion Planting Design for Strawberries
- Bed Edges: Plant chives, thyme, or marigolds around the perimeter for pest deterrence.
- Within Rows: Interplant borage and nasturtiums among strawberries to attract pollinators and trap aphids.
- Between Strawberries: Fill spaces with spinach or lettuce as living mulch.
- Nearby Crops: Place rhubarb or blueberries close to strawberry beds for shade and pollination benefits.
This layered approach protects strawberries, improves biodiversity, and increases fruit yields naturally.
Tips for Maximizing Strawberry Harvests
- Mulch heavily: Straw or wood chips keep soil cool and protect fruits from rot.
- Encourage pollinators: Allow some herbs to flower nearby, ensuring strong pollination.
- Water consistently: Strawberries are shallow-rooted and need steady moisture to produce large, sweet fruit.
- Replant regularly: Replace strawberry plants every three to four years to maintain productivity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding companions: Too many nearby plants compete with strawberries for water and nutrients.
- Ignoring soil needs: Strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil; avoid companions that require different pH levels.
- Letting pests spread: Trap crops like nasturtiums must be monitored so they don’t harbor too many pests.
- Neglecting rotation: Even perennial strawberries benefit from rotating with other crops to prevent disease buildup.
FAQs
Q: What is the single best companion for strawberries?
A: Borage is widely regarded as the top companion, boosting pollination, deterring pests, and improving soil health.
Q: Can strawberries and garlic be planted together?
A: Yes. Garlic repels aphids and nematodes, making it a useful border crop around strawberry beds.
Q: How close should companions be planted to strawberries?
A: Within 6–12 inches is ideal. Companions should be close enough to share benefits without overcrowding.
Q: Do strawberry companions improve fruit flavor?
A: Indirectly. By reducing stress, improving pollination, and keeping plants healthier, companions can lead to sweeter, better-formed fruits.
Q: Can strawberries be grown in containers with companions?
A: Yes. Containers of strawberries pair well with thyme, chives, or marigolds, which deter pests and add fragrance.