10 Powerful Marjoram Companion Plants (+ 5 to Avoid)

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on marjoram companion plants. In this article, we delve into the advantages of companion planting with marjoram. We will uncover the most beneficial plants to accompany marjoram, as well as those that should be avoided. Additionally, we will explore techniques for successfully cultivating marjoram alongside other plants and offer essential tips to ensure a harmonious companion planting experience. Throughout the article, we will emphasize the significant role of companion plants in promoting the growth and vitality of marjoram. All the information provided is based on scientific sources and expert know-how, ensuring you receive accurate and reliable guidance for your gardening endeavors.

Benefits of Marjoram Companion Planting

Enhancing Flavor and Aroma

Choosing the right marjoram companion plants will significantly enhance the flavor and aroma of your marjoram plants. When strategically planted alongside compatible companions, marjoram’s taste profile becomes more robust and its aromatic qualities intensify. This synergistic effect between marjoram and its companions creates a harmonious blend of flavors and scents, enhancing both culinary and medicinal applications.

According to science, some marjoram companion plants emit volatile substances into the air that might affect the flavor and perfume of nearby plants. In the case of marjoram, companion plants that emit aromatic compounds can impart their fragrance onto the herb, resulting in a more complex and desirable flavor profile.

For example, thyme is an excellent companion for marjoram due to its shared family (Lamiaceae) and similar growth requirements. The aromatic foliage of thyme not only gives the garden a visual lift, but it also releases natural oils that can improve marjoram’s flavor and scent in general.

The addition of companion plants can enhance the flavor of marjoram when used in dishes like sauces, stews, or marinades. The intensified flavors and fragrances of marjoram obtained through companion planting can make your culinary creations more memorable and enjoyable.

Furthermore, the enhanced aroma of marjoram achieved through marjoram companion plants can have therapeutic benefits. Marjoram essential oil is well-known for its soothing and unwinding effects in aromatherapy. By maximizing the herb’s aromatic potential through companion planting, you can create a sensory haven in your garden, providing an inviting and tranquil space for relaxation and stress relief.

By incorporating marjoram companion plants that enhance flavor and aroma, you will transform your garden into a flavorful paradise while enjoying the added benefits of a visually appealing and aromatic environment.

Natural Pest Control

Companion planting with the right plants can serve as a natural pest control method for marjoram. By strategically selecting compatible marjoram companion plants, you can create a garden ecosystem that deters common pests and reduces the need for chemical interventions. This helps to protect the integrity of marjoram plants in addition to fostering a healthier and more sustainable garden.

Scientific research and expert knowledge have shown that certain marjoram companion plants possess natural pest-repellent properties. These plants emit specific chemicals or fragrances that act as natural deterrents, disrupting the sensory mechanisms of pests and making it less likely for them to infest marjoram plants.

For instance, planting basil alongside marjoram can help deter a range of pests. Basil releases aromatic oils that repel insects such as aphids, spider mites, and cabbage worms. By interplanting basil and marjoram, you create a barrier of pest-repellent fragrances that help safeguard your marjoram crop.

Marigolds are another valuable companion plant for marjoram when it comes to pest control. Nematodes are tiny pests that live in the soil and can harm the roots of marjoram. Marigolds contain substances that fight nematodes. Additionally, marigolds help repel aphids, a common pest that can harm marjoram foliage. By intermixing marigolds with marjoram, you can effectively protect your plants from these detrimental pests.

Companion plants like chives and parsley also play a significant role in pest control for marjoram. Chives emit a strong onion-like scent that confuses pests, making it harder for them to locate marjoram plants. Additionally, parsley attracts beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which feed on common marjoram pests like aphids. By incorporating chives and parsley in your marjoram garden, you create an ecosystem that supports natural pest control.

By employing companion planting techniques, you can establish a garden environment that not only nurtures the growth of marjoram but also actively discourages pests. This holistic approach to pest control minimizes the reliance on chemical pesticides, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable gardening practice.¹

Marjoram Companion Plants

Now it is time to have a look at the specific marjoram companion plants:

• Thyme
• Basil
• Chives
• Marigold
• Nasturtium
• Oregano
• Parsley
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Summer Savory

Thyme

Thyme is an excellent member of the best marjoram companion plants. The reason is its shared family (Lamiaceae) and similar growth requirements. The fragrant leaves of thyme not only gives the garden aesthetic appeal, but it also provides essential oils that can improve marjoram’s overall flavor and scent². The volatile compounds emitted by thyme plants help deter pests such as aphids and cabbage worms, creating a protective environment for marjoram. Don’t forget to check out the other thyme companion plants:

Basil

Basil and marjoram share similar growth habits and nutrient requirements, making them ideal companions. Eugenol and citronellol, two of basil’s fragrant oils, have inherent insect-repelling properties. Along with attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies for pollination, basil plants helps deter pests like aphids, spider mites, and cabbage worms when planted as marjoram companion plants. Also see Basil companion plants:

Chives

Chives complement marjoram by deterring harmful pests and attracting pollinators. Their slender, grass-like foliage adds a decorative touch to the garden, while their onion-like scent confuses pests, making it difficult for them to locate marjoram plants. Chives also produce edible, pink-purple flowers that can be used to garnish dishes, adding both visual appeal and culinary delight. We have a great list of chives companion plants too! Check it out:

Marigold

Marigolds are renowned for their pest-repellent properties, making them valuable marjoram companion plants. The strong aroma of marigold foliage acts as a natural deterrent against nematodes, a type of soil-dwelling pest that can harm marjoram roots. Marigolds also repel aphids, which can damage marjoram foliage. Their vibrant orange and yellow flowers provide a colorful backdrop to the garden, attracting pollinators and adding beauty to the overall landscape. If you are also looking for marigold companion plants, have a look here:

Nasturtium

Nasturtiums serve as excellent marjoram companion plants. Why? Due to their climbing nature and ability to provide natural ground cover. Nasturtiums create a living mulch, reducing weed growth and conserving soil moisture. Their bright, edible flowers and peppery leaves add a splash of color and flavor to salads and other culinary creations. Furthermore, nasturtiums attract beneficial insects such as bees and hoverflies, promoting pollination and biodiversity in the garden. I totally recommend to use nasturtium companion plants! Your garden will level up!

Oregano

Oreganos share similar growth habits and requirements with marjoram, making them ideal marjoram companion plants. Both herbs belong to the same family and possess aromatic foliage rich in essential oils. Interplanting oregano with marjoram can enhance the flavor and aroma of both plants. The strong aroma of oregano serves as a natural deterrent for insects like aphids and spider mites, keeping marjoram plants free from infestations. For more information about oregano companion plants check out the article below:

Parsley

Parsleys are great marjoram companion plants because they are attracting beneficial insects to the garden. The delicate foliage of parsley adds an attractive element to the landscape, while its flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinators. Parsley also attracts beneficial predators such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which feed on common marjoram pests like aphids. This symbiotic relationship fosters a balanced ecosystem, promoting healthy growth and pest control. Did you know that parsley is a beneficial companion to other plants in your garden too? Have a look at the list:

Rosemary

Rosemaries make fantastic marjoram companion plants in the garden. The resilience and pest-repellent properties of rosemary complement marjoram’s growth and well-being. Together, they form a harmonious duo, benefiting each other’s presence. Both herbs belong to the same family and thrive in similar growing conditions. Rosemary’s aromatic foliage releases volatile compounds that repel pests such as mosquitoes, cabbage moths, and carrot flies. Its tall, upright growth habit provides a visually appealing backdrop to the garden, while its woody stems can be used as flavorful skewers for grilling. Of yourse we also have a list for the best rosemary companion plants:

Sage

Sage and marjoram thrive when planted together, benefiting from their shared resistance to pests and diseases. This makes sage plants another member of the best marjoram companion plants. Sage’s strong aroma acts as a natural deterrent against pests, including cabbage moths and carrot flies. Both marjoram and sage belong to the Lamiaceae family and possess aromatic foliage rich in essential oils. Combining these herbs creates a fragrant and protective garden environment while enhancing the flavors of culinary dishes. That’s why sages are excellent marjoram companion plants. Check out the huge list of sage companion plants too!

Summer Savory

Summer savories act as excellent marjoram companion plants, thanks to their pungent aroma and pest-repellent properties. Summer savory emits a strong fragrance that repels pests like bean beetles and aphids, which can harm marjoram plants. This companion pairing promotes healthy growth and helps protect marjoram from pest infestations. The extraordinarily adaptable herb summer savory, which gives food a savory, peppery flavor, is used in a variety of cuisines.

By incorporating these marjoram companion plants in your garden, you can create a diverse and harmonious ecosystem that promotes growth, enhances flavors and aromas, and naturally deters pests. The combination of visual appeal, culinary benefits, and pest control makes these companion plants invaluable allies for successful marjoram cultivation.

What not to Grow with Marjoram

While companion planting offers numerous benefits for marjoram, it’s important to be aware of bad marjoram companion plants. Understanding which plants to avoid as marjoram companions can help you create a more successful and harmonious garden.

• Fennel
• Beans
• Cabbage Family Members
• Mint
• Dill

Fennel

Fennel plants are considered as bad marjoram companion plants. Fennel produces chemicals that can inhibit the growth of neighboring plants, including marjoram. These substances, sometimes referred to as allelopathic compounds, can harm marjoram’s capacity to develop and cause stunted growth or diminished vigor. It’s advisable to keep fennel away from your marjoram garden bed to protect the health of your plants.

Beans

Beans, including common varieties like bush beans and pole beans, should be avoided as marjoram companion plants. Beans often obstruct and outcompete other plants, such as marjoram, for essential resources like sunshine, water, and nutrients. This competition can lead to reduced growth and overall plant health. To ensure optimal growth and productivity for both marjoram and beans, it’s advisable to plant them in separate areas of the garden.

Cabbage Family Plants

Marjoram is not the best friend for cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, or Brussels sprouts, thus experts advise against planting it with these vegetables. These plants have similar nutrient and water requirements to marjoram and may compete for resources, leading to reduced growth and overall productivity. Additionally, some members of the cabbage family are susceptible to similar pests and diseases as marjoram, increasing the risk of infestation or spread of pathogens.

Mint

Mint plants, such as spearmint and peppermint, are best kept separate from marjoram. Mint has a tendency to spread aggressively and can quickly overrun nearby plants, including marjoram. It is well recognized to possess allelopathic characteristics, which can prevent other plants from growing and developing. To prevent potential issues, it is advisable to grow mint in containers or designated areas away from marjoram.

Dill

Dill is another plant to avoid planting near marjoram. Dill attracts pests like aphids and attracts beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, that feed on these pests. However, these beneficial insects may also consume marjoram’s beneficial insects, disrupting the balance of the garden ecosystem. It is advised to keep dill plants apart from marjoram plants to preserve a healthy environment for marjoram.

By being aware of these additional bad marjoram companion plants, you can make informed decisions when planning your marjoram garden. Avoiding these incompatible companions will help ensure the optimal growth, health, and productivity of your marjoram plants. But don’t worry if you still want to have these plants in your garden. We have companion plants lists for each of them. Just make sure to plan your garden the right way for a healthy ecosystem:

• Fennel Companion Plants
• Beans Companion Plants
• Cabbage Family Members
• Mint Companion Plants
• Dill Companion Plants

Tips for Growing Marjoram with Other Plants

Companion Planting Placement

When planning your garden layout, consider the growth habits, height, and sunlight requirements of each companion plant. Ensure that marjoram and its companions are compatible in terms of their spatial and light needs.

Diversity in Companion Selection

Create a diverse ecosystem by selecting a variety of companion plants.³ This helps attract a range of beneficial insects and discourages the proliferation of specific pests.⁴

Successive Planting

Practice successive planting by staggering the sowing or transplanting of marjoram companion plants. This ensures a continuous supply of fresh herbs and encourages healthy growth throughout the growing season.

What to Avoid When Planting Marjoram with Other Plants

Overcrowding

Avoid overcrowding marjoram with too many marjoram companion plants, as this can lead to competition for resources, reduced airflow, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. Provide sufficient spacing between plants for optimal growth.⁵

Imbalanced Watering

Avoid overwatering or underwatering marjoram and its companion plants. Maintain a consistent watering schedule, taking into account the specific moisture requirements of each plant.

Marjoram Companion Planting Chart

Companion Plant	Why Planting Together with Marjoram	How to Plant Together
Thyme	Thyme and marjoram have similar growth habits and requirements, making them excellent companions. They both enjoy well-drained soil and sunny locations.	Plant thyme and marjoram together in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Water regularly and ensure they have enough space to spread.
Basil	Basil’s aromatic properties can help deter pests that might bother marjoram. Additionally, both herbs benefit from similar growing conditions.	Interplant basil and marjoram to maximize space in the garden. Provide ample sunlight and water to both herbs.
Chives	Chives can help repel pests like aphids and attract beneficial insects to the garden. They also complement the flavor of marjoram well in culinary dishes.	Plant chives alongside marjoram in well-draining soil. Ensure both receive adequate water and sunlight.
Marigold	Marigolds are known for their pest-repelling properties, which can benefit marjoram by keeping harmful insects at bay. They also add vibrant color to the garden.	Interplant marigolds and marjoram to create a visually appealing and pest-resistant garden. Provide both plants with full sunlight and well-draining soil.
Nasturtium	Nasturtiums can attract aphids away from marjoram while also acting as a sacrificial plant, drawing pests away from more valuable herbs.	Plant nasturtiums around the perimeter of the garden or near marjoram to deter pests. Ensure both plants receive adequate sunlight and water.
Oregano	Oregano shares similar growing conditions and care requirements with marjoram. Together, they can create a harmonious and flavorful herb garden.	Interplant oregano and marjoram in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight. Water regularly and prune as needed to promote healthy growth.
Parsley	Parsley’s ability to attract beneficial insects and its compatibility with marjoram make it a great companion. Additionally, parsley adds texture and flavor to culinary dishes.	Plant parsley near marjoram in fertile, well-drained soil. Provide both herbs with consistent moisture and sunlight.
Rosemary	Rosemary’s strong scent can help deter pests, while its upright growth habit complements the sprawling nature of marjoram. Together, they create a visually appealing garden.	Interplant rosemary and marjoram in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Water deeply and provide adequate space for both herbs to thrive.
Sage	Sage’s aromatic foliage can help repel pests and its compatibility with marjoram makes it an ideal companion. Both herbs thrive in similar growing conditions.	Plant sage alongside marjoram in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Water regularly and provide occasional pruning to maintain plant health.
Summer Savory	Summer savory’s pest-repellent properties and ability to enhance the flavor of marjoram make it a beneficial companion. Both herbs require similar care.	Interplant summer savory and marjoram in fertile, well-draining soil with ample sunlight. Water regularly and harvest as needed to promote growth.

References

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2. Cunningham, S. J. (2000). Great garden companions: a companion-planting system for a beautiful, chemical-free vegetable garden. Rodale. Retrieved from: https://books.google.at/books?hl=de&lr=&id=bYOPlJt6SfAC&oi=fnd&pg=PA1&dq=companion+planting+placement&ots=YJHtIeA_OG&sig=cyeWxkGGyINIgnxMUymW6iVqZDk&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=companion%20planting%20placement&f=false
3. Al-Fraihat, A. H., Al-dalain, S. Y., Al-Rawashdeh, Z. B., Abu-Darwish, M. S., & Al-Tabbal, J. A. (2011). Effect of organic and biofertilizers on growth, herb yield and volatile oil of marjoram plant grown in Ajloun region, Jordan. J. Med. Plants Res, 5(13), 2822-2833. Retrieved from: https://academicjournals.org/journal/JMPR/article-full-text-pdf/DB9823F18584
4. Parker, J. E., Snyder, W. E., Hamilton, G. C., & Rodriguez-Saona, C. (2013). Companion planting and insect pest control. Weed and pest control-conventional and new challenges, 10, 55044. Retrieved from: https://books.google.at/books?hl=de&lr=&id=z_ugDwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA1&dq=diversity+companion+plants&ots=x7zDKrjNEx&sig=Zt8ke01bmK3NP2YwxnIndckdH_4&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=diversity%20companion%20plants&f=false
5. Elhalawany, A. S., & Dewidar, A. A. (2017). Efficiency of Some Plant Essential Oils Against the Two-Spotted Spider Mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch and the Two Predatory Mites Phytoseiulus persimilis) A.-H.), and Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor). Egyptian Academic Journal of Biological Sciences. A, Entomology, 10(7), 135-147. Retrieved from: https://journals.ekb.eg/article_12101.html