Blueberries are a favorite among home gardeners, prized for their sweet, antioxidant-rich berries and beautiful foliage. However, to grow healthy and productive blueberry bushes, it’s essential to consider their companions. The right blueberry companion plants can enhance soil health, attract pollinators, deter pests, and even improve fruit yield. By strategically planting compatible species alongside your blueberries, you can create a more resilient and thriving garden.
Companion planting is a natural and effective way to support blueberry growth. Some plants, like nitrogen-fixers, enrich the soil with nutrients, while others help retain moisture or suppress weeds. Additionally, certain herbs and flowers can protect blueberries from harmful insects, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Choosing the best blueberry companion plants ensures a balanced ecosystem where each plant benefits from the presence of others.
In this guide, we’ll explore 20 of the best blueberry companion plants that will help your garden flourish. Whether you’re looking to improve soil fertility, attract pollinators, or keep pests at bay, these plants will make excellent additions to your blueberry patch. Let’s dive in and discover the best companions for your blueberry bushes!
Best Companion Plants for Blueberries
Azaleas and Rhododendrons
Azaleas and rhododendrons are excellent companion plants for blueberries because they thrive in the same acidic soil conditions. With a preference for a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5, they naturally complement the needs of blueberries, making soil preparation easier. Their shallow root systems also prevent competition for nutrients, allowing both plants to flourish.
These flowering shrubs provide more than just aesthetic appeal—they contribute to soil health as well. Their fallen leaves create a natural mulch layer, helping to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. This organic matter also improves soil structure over time, benefiting blueberries by enhancing drainage and aeration.
Another advantage of planting azaleas and rhododendrons near blueberries is their ability to attract pollinators. Their vibrant blooms draw bees and butterflies to the garden, increasing pollination rates for blueberries. By creating a diverse planting area, these plants contribute to a more productive and visually appealing garden space.
Cranberries
Cranberries and blueberries share similar growing conditions, making them ideal companions in the garden. Both plants thrive in acidic, well-drained soil with high organic content, reducing the need for extensive soil amendments. Their mutual preference for moist environments ensures that they can be watered together, simplifying maintenance.
One of the key benefits of growing cranberries alongside blueberries is their ability to act as a ground cover. Their low, spreading growth habit suppresses weeds, reducing competition for nutrients and water. This natural weed barrier helps keep the blueberry patch healthier and more productive.
Additionally, cranberries help retain soil moisture, which is essential for blueberry growth. Their dense foliage prevents excessive evaporation, creating a more stable soil environment. This combination not only conserves water but also reduces the risk of drought stress, leading to better yields for both crops.
Strawberries
Strawberries make excellent companion plants for blueberries due to their ability to serve as a natural ground cover. Their low-growing habit helps shade the soil, reducing weed growth and conserving moisture—both crucial factors for healthy blueberry production. By forming a living mulch, strawberries protect the root zone from temperature fluctuations and soil erosion.
In addition to their practical benefits, strawberries attract pollinators to the garden. Their fragrant blooms lure bees and other beneficial insects, which in turn improve the pollination success of blueberry bushes. This increased pollination leads to higher fruit yields and a more abundant harvest.
Strawberries also complement blueberries in terms of soil preference, as they thrive in slightly acidic conditions. Their shallow root system minimizes competition for nutrients while still benefiting from the same organic-rich, well-draining soil that blueberries require. This pairing enhances overall garden productivity while providing a delicious and diverse harvest.
Thyme
Thyme is a beneficial herb to plant alongside blueberries due to its natural pest-repelling properties. Its strong fragrance deters harmful insects like cabbage worms and beetles, which can damage blueberry foliage and fruit. This makes thyme a great organic alternative to chemical pesticides, promoting a healthier garden ecosystem.
Beyond its pest-deterring abilities, thyme also attracts beneficial insects. Pollinators such as bees and butterflies are drawn to its tiny, fragrant flowers, which help increase the pollination rate of nearby blueberry plants. This improved pollination leads to a more fruitful harvest, making thyme a valuable companion.
Additionally, thyme thrives in well-drained soil, making it compatible with blueberries. Its drought-tolerant nature allows it to grow without competing for water, and its spreading growth habit provides mild ground cover. This helps maintain soil moisture while reducing erosion, benefiting the overall health of the blueberry patch.
Basil
Basil is an excellent companion plant for blueberries because of its natural ability to repel insect pests. Its strong aroma helps deter mosquitoes, flies, and certain beetles, reducing the likelihood of pest infestations around blueberry bushes. This makes it a useful addition to the garden, promoting a more balanced and pest-resistant environment.
Aside from pest control, basil also attracts pollinators like bees, which play a crucial role in blueberry production. The increased presence of pollinators leads to better fruit set and larger yields. By planting basil near blueberries, gardeners can enhance both plant health and productivity.
Basil thrives in well-drained soil, similar to blueberries, and requires moderate moisture levels. While it prefers slightly richer soil than blueberries, it grows well in adjacent garden beds or containers. This strategic placement ensures that both plants benefit from each other’s presence without competing for essential nutrients.
Chives
Chives are an excellent companion plant for blueberries due to their natural pest-repelling properties. Their strong onion-like scent deters common garden pests such as aphids, Japanese beetles, and certain caterpillars that could otherwise damage blueberry bushes. This natural defense helps reduce the need for chemical pesticides, promoting an organic and healthy growing environment.
Beyond pest control, chives contribute to pollination by attracting bees and other beneficial insects. Their vibrant purple flowers bloom in early summer, providing an additional nectar source for pollinators that will also visit blueberry blossoms. This improved pollination can lead to better fruit set and higher yields.
Chives are also a low-maintenance edible herb that provides a culinary bonus for gardeners. They thrive in well-drained soil and do not compete heavily with blueberries for nutrients or space. By planting chives near blueberries, gardeners can enjoy both an insect-resistant garden and a fresh supply of flavorful herbs.
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee balm is a pollinator-friendly plant that enhances blueberry production by attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Since blueberries rely on pollinators for fruit development, having bee balm nearby significantly increases the chances of a more abundant harvest. Its brightly colored flowers make it a visually appealing addition to any blueberry patch.
Besides its role in pollination, bee balm helps deter harmful insects. Its strong fragrance can repel pests such as aphids and spider mites, reducing the likelihood of infestations. Additionally, bee balm’s dense growth habit helps provide some natural shade and wind protection for nearby plants.
This hardy perennial thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, making it an excellent match for blueberries. It is also drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal maintenance. Planting bee balm near blueberries not only supports garden biodiversity but also enhances the overall health and productivity of the fruiting shrubs.
Clover
Clover is a valuable companion plant for blueberries because it enriches the soil by fixing nitrogen. As a legume, clover works in harmony with soil bacteria to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can readily use. This natural fertilization benefits blueberries, which require nutrient-rich soil for optimal growth.
Another advantage of clover is its ability to function as a ground cover. It spreads quickly, suppressing weeds that would otherwise compete with blueberries for nutrients and water. Additionally, clover’s dense foliage helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion, creating a more stable environment for blueberry roots.
Clover also attracts pollinators such as bees, which are essential for blueberry fruit development. By planting clover in or around a blueberry patch, gardeners can improve soil health, reduce maintenance needs, and support a thriving ecosystem that benefits fruit production.
Ferns
Ferns make excellent companion plants for blueberries, especially in shaded or partially shaded areas. These moisture-loving plants help retain soil humidity, preventing excessive drying during hot weather. Their lush, feathery foliage also helps regulate soil temperature, reducing stress on blueberry roots.
In addition to moisture retention, ferns contribute to erosion control. Their extensive root systems anchor the soil, preventing runoff and protecting the delicate root zones of blueberry bushes. This is especially beneficial in sloped gardens or areas prone to heavy rainfall.
Ferns thrive in acidic soil conditions, making them naturally compatible with blueberries. While they do not provide direct benefits such as pollination or nitrogen fixation, their role in soil stabilization and moisture conservation makes them a valuable addition to any blueberry-friendly landscape.
Lupines
Lupines are an excellent choice for planting near blueberries because they are nitrogen-fixing plants. Like clover, lupines work symbiotically with soil bacteria to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form, enriching the soil and supporting healthy blueberry growth. This natural fertilization reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, promoting an organic gardening approach.
Beyond their soil-enhancing properties, lupines add beauty to the garden with their striking spires of colorful flowers. These blooms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which in turn help improve blueberry pollination. More pollinators visiting the garden means better fruit production and higher yields.
Lupines prefer well-drained, acidic soil, making them an ideal companion for blueberries. They grow well in both full sun and partial shade, allowing for flexibility in planting arrangements. By integrating lupines into a blueberry garden, gardeners can boost soil fertility, attract beneficial insects, and create a visually stunning landscape.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a fantastic companion plant for blueberries due to its strong insect-repelling properties. Its aromatic foliage naturally deters pests like beetles, aphids, and mosquitoes, reducing the risk of infestations around blueberry bushes. This makes it an effective organic pest control option for maintaining a healthy garden.
Beyond pest control, rosemary adds beauty and fragrance to the garden. Its evergreen leaves provide year-round greenery, and its delicate blue or purple flowers attract beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These pollinators help improve blueberry fruit set, leading to a more abundant harvest.
Rosemary thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, making it a suitable companion for blueberries. It also requires minimal water once established, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to reduce water usage. Planting rosemary near blueberries enhances both plant health and overall garden biodiversity.
Garlic
Garlic is a natural pest deterrent that helps protect blueberry plants from harmful insects such as aphids, thrips, and beetles. Its strong scent confuses and repels pests, reducing their ability to locate and damage blueberry bushes. This makes garlic an excellent organic alternative to chemical pesticides.
In addition to pest control, garlic has antibacterial and antifungal properties that contribute to soil health. It helps suppress harmful soil pathogens, reducing the risk of root diseases that could affect blueberry plants. This benefit makes garlic an ideal companion for improving overall plant resilience.
Garlic is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-drained soil, much like blueberries. It does not compete for nutrients and can be grown in between or around blueberry plants to maximize garden space while providing multiple benefits, including a flavorful kitchen staple.
Green Onions
Green onions make great companion plants for blueberries due to their natural ability to repel insect pests. Their pungent aroma deters aphids, beetles, and other common garden pests that could harm blueberry plants. This protective effect helps reduce the need for chemical pest control, promoting a more organic gardening approach.
Another advantage of green onions is their minimal competition with blueberries for nutrients. Their shallow root system allows them to coexist with blueberry plants without depleting the soil of essential elements. This makes them an efficient use of garden space while providing culinary benefits.
Green onions are easy to grow and require little maintenance. They thrive in well-drained soil and can be planted around the base of blueberry bushes to create a protective barrier against pests. Their presence enhances biodiversity and contributes to a healthier garden ecosystem.
Raspberry and Wild Strawberry
Raspberry and wild strawberry plants make excellent companions for blueberries by acting as natural ground covers. Their low-growing habit helps retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. This moisture conservation is particularly beneficial during dry periods when blueberries require consistent hydration.
In addition to moisture retention, these plants suppress weed growth. Their dense foliage prevents invasive weeds from taking over, reducing competition for nutrients and making maintenance easier. This allows blueberry plants to grow more efficiently without unnecessary stress.
Both raspberry and wild strawberry thrive in acidic soil conditions, similar to blueberries. They also attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which can improve blueberry fruit production. By planting these companion plants, gardeners can create a thriving ecosystem that supports healthy growth and abundant harvests.
Marigold
Marigolds are well-known for their ability to repel pests and protect blueberries from soil-borne threats. Their roots release natural compounds that help deter nematodes—microscopic worms that can damage blueberry roots. This makes marigolds a beneficial companion for maintaining healthy soil conditions.
In addition to nematode control, marigolds repel harmful insects such as aphids, whiteflies, and beetles. Their bright, cheerful flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which contribute to blueberry pollination and fruit development. By planting marigolds near blueberries, gardeners can support both plant protection and increased yields.
Marigolds are easy to grow and thrive in various soil conditions, including slightly acidic environments. They require minimal maintenance and can be planted around blueberry bushes to enhance garden aesthetics while providing practical benefits. Their presence contributes to a balanced and thriving garden ecosystem.
Lavender
Lavender is an excellent companion plant for blueberries, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These beneficial insects play a crucial role in increasing blueberry fruit set, leading to larger and more productive harvests. Its long-lasting blooms provide a continuous nectar source, supporting a thriving garden ecosystem.
Beyond its pollination benefits, lavender has a pleasant fragrance that enhances the garden environment. Its aromatic properties also help repel certain pests, such as mosquitoes and moths, reducing insect disturbances around blueberry plants. This natural pest deterrent allows gardeners to maintain a healthier and more balanced garden.
Lavender thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil, making it a suitable companion for blueberries. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal choice for gardeners looking to improve biodiversity while enjoying a fragrant and visually appealing landscape.
Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a nitrogen-fixing plant that enhances soil fertility, making it an excellent companion for blueberries. As a legume, it works in harmony with soil bacteria to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that blueberry plants can absorb. This natural fertilization reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers and promotes long-term soil health.
In addition to its soil-enriching properties, alfalfa has deep roots that help improve soil structure. These roots enhance aeration and water retention, creating optimal growing conditions for blueberries. Alfalfa also helps prevent soil erosion, making it a valuable plant for stabilizing garden beds.
Alfalfa attracts pollinators such as bees, further supporting blueberry fruit production. It is a resilient and drought-tolerant plant, making it easy to maintain in a variety of climates. By incorporating alfalfa into a blueberry garden, growers can boost soil nutrients, enhance plant resilience, and encourage beneficial insects.
Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle is a pollinator-friendly plant that benefits blueberries by attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These pollinators are essential for blueberry fruit development, ensuring a higher yield and better-quality berries. Honeysuckle’s fragrant flowers provide a continuous nectar source, making it a reliable pollination booster.
Beyond attracting pollinators, honeysuckle can act as a natural windbreak in the garden. Its climbing or bushy growth habit helps shield blueberries from harsh winds, reducing plant stress and improving growing conditions. This protective barrier can also help conserve soil moisture, which is crucial for blueberry growth.
Honeysuckle thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, similar to blueberries. Its low-maintenance nature makes it an easy addition to a garden, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. Planting honeysuckle near blueberries enhances biodiversity while supporting a more productive harvest.
Larkspur
Larkspur is a beautiful flowering plant that attracts beneficial insects, including bees, butterflies, and predatory insects that help control garden pests. These natural predators feed on harmful pests like aphids and caterpillars, reducing the risk of infestations that could harm blueberry plants.
In addition to pest control, larkspur contributes to a healthier pollination process. Its vibrant blue, purple, or pink flowers provide an abundant nectar source, encouraging more pollinators to visit the garden. With increased pollination activity, blueberry plants can produce more fruit and develop stronger growth.
Larkspur thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, making it a great companion for blueberries. It requires minimal maintenance and adds striking beauty to the garden. By integrating larkspur into a blueberry patch, gardeners can enhance pest management, support pollination, and create a more visually appealing landscape.
Sage
Sage is a highly aromatic herb that serves as a natural pest repellent, protecting blueberry plants from harmful insects. Its strong scent deters common garden pests like aphids, beetles, and cabbage moths, reducing the risk of infestations without the need for chemical pesticides.
Beyond pest control, sage improves soil health by enhancing microbial activity. It helps promote a balanced soil ecosystem, which can benefit blueberry root development and nutrient absorption. Additionally, sage’s drought-resistant nature allows it to thrive alongside blueberries without competing for water.
Sage also attracts beneficial pollinators such as bees, which contribute to blueberry pollination and fruit production. It is an easy-to-grow herb that requires little maintenance, making it a practical and attractive addition to any blueberry garden. By planting sage nearby, gardeners can enjoy both its functional benefits and culinary uses.
Plants to Avoid Near Blueberries
While many plants can benefit blueberries, some should be avoided due to their negative impact on growth, soil conditions, or disease susceptibility.
Nightshades (Tomatoes, Peppers, Potatoes, and Eggplants)
Members of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) can introduce harmful soil-borne diseases such as verticillium wilt. This fungal disease affects blueberry plants by causing yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and reduced fruit production. Additionally, nightshades require nutrient-rich soil, which can compete with blueberries for essential resources.
Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli, and Cauliflower)
Brassicas thrive in neutral to alkaline soil, which directly conflicts with the acidic soil requirements of blueberries. Growing these plants near blueberries may alter soil pH over time, making it less suitable for blueberry growth. Furthermore, brassicas have high nutrient demands, potentially depleting the soil of essential minerals that blueberries need to thrive.
Walnut Trees
Walnut trees release a natural chemical called juglone, which is toxic to many plants, including blueberries. Juglone inhibits root development and nutrient absorption, leading to stunted growth or even plant death. Additionally, walnut trees have deep, extensive root systems that compete for water and nutrients, making them unsuitable companions for blueberries.
By carefully selecting companion plants and avoiding incompatible species, gardeners can create a healthier and more productive blueberry-growing environment.
