Chamomile, which includes the annual German variety (Matricaria recutita) and the perennial Roman type (Chamaemelum nobile), is often used in companion planting. This natural gardening strategy pairs mutually beneficial species. Integrating chamomile into the garden ecosystem enhances health and productivity.
The Role of Chamomile in Companion Planting
Chamomile serves a unique function in the garden, often called a “plant doctor” or tonic for its positive influence on struggling plants. It attracts beneficial insects, notably tiny parasitic wasps and hoverflies, which are natural predators of common garden pests like aphids and thrips. The subtle, sweet scent of its daisy-like flowers helps mask the aromas of nearby plants, confusing destructive insects such as the cabbage moth.
The herb is also recognized for its ability to cycle and release specific nutrients back into the soil. Chamomile accumulates minerals like sulfur and potassium, which are returned to the surrounding area as the plant decomposes or through root exudates. The sulfur release is particularly beneficial, helping neighboring plants develop resistance to fungal diseases such as damping-off and powdery mildew. This fungicidal action supports the vitality of adjacent crops.
Specific Beneficial Plant Pairings
Vegetables
The entire Brassica family, including cabbage, broccoli, and kale, benefits significantly from chamomile’s presence as a border plant. Chamomile’s scent is believed to deter the adult cabbage moth from laying eggs, reducing the incidence of cabbage worms. Planting chamomile near onions and leeks can help suppress onion fly activity and potentially enhance the flavor profile of the alliums. Cucumbers are another excellent companion, as chamomile’s pest-deterring qualities protect the vines from cucumber beetles and attract pollinators to improve fruit set.
Herbs and Flowers
Chamomile pairs well with basil; its proximity is thought to stimulate the basil plant to produce higher concentrations of essential oils, resulting in a stronger scent and more intense flavor. Positioning chamomile near roses is a strategy to deter aphids and improve the overall health and vigor of the rose bush. The anti-fungal properties also help keep roses free from common leaf spot diseases.
Trees
Fruit trees, such as apple trees, are often planted with chamomile at their base to leverage its systemic health benefits. The herb’s anti-bacterial and anti-fungal compounds help protect the trees from various fungal infections that can affect fruit quality and yield. This pairing improves the overall resilience of the tree, leading to better fruit production. Chamomile also attracts pollinators to the orchard, which is essential for successful fruit set.
Plants to Keep Separate
While chamomile is a generous companion, certain plants should be kept at a distance due to competition or chemical incompatibility. Fennel, for example, is strongly allelopathic; it releases chemical compounds into the soil that inhibit the growth of almost all surrounding species, including chamomile. Planting chamomile close to fennel will result in stunted growth for both.
Members of the nightshade family, such as tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes, are generally poor companions for chamomile. These plants compete heavily for water and nutrients, especially in less-than-ideal soil conditions, which can stress both crops. They also share susceptibility to similar fungal diseases, and overcrowding increases the spread of blights and mildews. Aggressive, high-nitrogen feeders that require constant moisture, like celery and carrots, may also struggle when placed too close, as chamomile thrives in leaner soil and can be overwhelmed by vigorous root systems.