When growing lavender, there are many plants that are good companions for this lovely herb. However, on the flip side there are also those that should be kept away from lavender in the garden for the plant to thrive. Ben Hilton, founder and editor of The Gardening Fix, has shared eight plants that should never be grown besides lavender.
1. Mint
Mint is unsurprisingly a popular herb to grow as it grows easily and has many benefits and uses.
Unfortunately, mint’s needs are incompatible with those of lavender. Mint prefers a moist environment with rich soil and it can also benefit from partial shade. Whereas lavender requires dry, well-drained conditions.
Ben warned: “Mint’s preference for moisture can lead to an overwatered lavender, which might cause root rot, a common issue that can kill lavender.”
If gardeners try to pair mint with lavender, one plant or the other will die because their water needs are just too different.
2. Ferns
As shade-dwelling, humidity-loving plants, ferns enjoy rich, moist soil. This is something lavender does not enjoy.
Ferns are found growing in forest undergrowth, where the environment is often damp and cool.
Ben said: “Planting ferns near lavender can create an environment too humid for the lavender, as it prefers dry conditions and full sun exposure.”
3. Hostas
Hostas are stunning plants that have gorgeous foliage. Some are all green, some have variegated leaves with white stripes, and some are greenish-blue.
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However, the big problem with trying to pair hostas with lavender is that the two plants have sun needs that are completely opposite.
The gardening pro explained: “They thrive in rich, well-drained soil and cool, shady conditions. Just like ferns, hostas’ requirements contrast with lavender’s need for full sun and less fertile soil, potentially stunting the growth of the lavender and causing root rot.”
4. Roses
Although lavender and roses make for an extremely visually appealing pair, unfortunately, they have “conflicting needs”.
Roses prefer slightly acidic soil and more frequent watering, whereas lavender needs slightly alkaline soil and less watering.
Ben explained: “The different watering and pH requirements can stress lavender when planted alongside roses.”
5. Hydrangeas
These vibrant blooming plants require a significant amount of water and prefer acidic soil.
Their need for regular watering and lower soil pH is in direct opposition to lavender’s requirements, potentially leading to “lavender’s ill health or death”.
6. Impatiens
Impatiens are gorgeous flowers that will look stunning paired with lavender’s grey-green foliage and upright flower spikes.
Often chosen for their bright flowers, these plants thrive in shady areas with rich, well-drained soil and regular watering.
Just as with most of the previous plants mentioned, impatiens’ set of needs is the “polar opposite” of what lavender plants require.
7. Rhubarb
Rhubarb thrives in cool, moist conditions and nutrient-rich soil. These conditions contrast with lavender’s preference for dry, well-drained soil and full sun, potentially causing issues for the lavender’s health.
8. Azaleas
Azaleas, like hydrangeas prefer acidic soil and a consistent watering schedule. Ben said: “The high acidity and moisture levels that azaleas require are not well suited to growing lavender, leading to potential root rot or other health issues.”
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