You’ll often see thyme and marjoram sharing space in a herb garden, but here’s a pro tip: they actually don’t get along at all! While they make a delicious duo in the kitchen, they should never be planted side-by-side.
Why shouldn’t you plant thyme and marjoram together?
Thyme is a sun-lover that thrives in a spot with dry, sandy, and nutrient-poor soil. Now, marjoram loves the sun too, but it needs rich, organic soil to really take off. Beyond their different tastes in dirt, these two have a negative chemical effect on each other. Usually, marjoram gets the short end of the stick and ends up withering away next to thyme. You should also avoid planting one in a spot where the other was growing previously. Luckily, there are plenty of other herbs that make much better neighbors!
The best companion plants for thyme
Some plants just “click,” making them perfect for interplanting. Thyme gets along famously with these herbs:
- Savory
- Tarragon
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Lemon Balm
Aside from marjoram, you’ll want to keep your thyme away from basil and peppermint. They tend to clash, and you might end up losing one of your plants.
The best companion plants for marjoram
Oregano and marjoram are another pair that don’t play nice together, so keep them separated. On the flip side, marjoram is very happy living next to these plants:
- Dill
- Chervil
- Cress
- Lavender
- Parsley
Can you use thyme and marjoram together in the kitchen?
Thyme is a powerhouse on its own; thanks to its bold, earthy flavor, it can easily carry a dish without any help. Marjoram, with its lighter and slightly sweeter profile, usually tastes best when blended with other spices. Interestingly, even though they fight in the garden, they are a match made in heaven on the plate! Their contrasting flavors balance each other out perfectly, which is why you’ll often find them paired together in hearty, savory recipes.
