Parsley usually has to share its garden space with other neighbors—whether that’s herbs, veggies, or even flowers. If she likes her roommates, she’ll grow lush and green. But if she’s unhappy with the neighborhood, she’ll just sit there and mope. Luckily, you don’t have to leave your harvest up to chance!
No Family Reunions, Please
Even though perennial parsley is a garden staple, it really doesn’t get along with its own relatives. Avoid planting this savory herb next to other members of the Umbellifer family, like dill, carrots, fennel, or celery. It’s actually super important to practice crop rotation here—wait at least four years before planting parsley in a spot where its relatives recently lived.
Pro Tip:
Who can actually remember where every single carrot was planted four years ago? Start a simple garden map or journal each year. It makes keeping track of your crop rotations a total breeze.
The Best Neighbors for Parsley
Alliums like garlic, leeks, and onions aren’t just good neighbors; they’re basically parsley’s personal bodyguards. It’s a win-win relationship: the strong scent of onions keeps away pests that love to snack on parsley, while the scent of parsley helps ward off the dreaded onion fly. Talk about a power couple! Other great companions include:
- Borage
- Strawberries
- Cucumbers
- Swiss Chard
- Radishes
- Daikon/Large Radishes
- Chives
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
Quick Note:
A lot of people try to tuck parsley in next to lettuce, but believe it or not, they aren’t actually the best match. Better to keep them separated!
Mixing it Up in the Herb Bed
In herb spirals or dedicated herb gardens, we usually want to pack everything together. While parsley is technically an herb, it can be a bit picky about its roommates. If you really want it in your herb bed, try to sow it next to annual herbs rather than woody perennials.
The Chive and Radish Connection
Many gardeners swear that planting parsley with chives helps prevent powdery mildew. Radishes, on the other hand, are the perfect “marker” crop. Since parsley germination can take a long 4 to 6 weeks, you can mix a few radish seeds in when you sow. The radishes pop up quickly to show you where your rows are, and they’ll be ready to harvest just as the parsley starts needing more elbow room. Plus, the spicy kick of radishes helps keep pests at bay.
Marigolds: The Natural Pest Control
Parsley often struggles with nematodes and flea beetles attacking its roots. Planting marigolds nearby is like installing a security system against these tiny invaders. Just keep an eye on them—marigolds can grow pretty tall and bushy. Make sure to thin them out occasionally so they don’t completely shade out or crowd your parsley.
Companion Planting for Root Parsley
Just like its leafy cousin, Hamburg parsley (root parsley) doesn’t play well with other Umbellifers. However, it thrives when planted alongside:
- Beans
- Broccoli
- Endive
- Peas
- Kale
- Swiss Chard
- Beets
- Spinach