Growing raspberries is like throwing a garden party. The right companion plants are the lively guests who make everything better.
From herbs like basil and thyme to leafy greens and flowers, these plants work wonders by boosting your raspberries’ flavor, deterring pests, and even improving soil health.
I’ve personally seen how adding the right companions can turn a good garden into a great one. Want to know which 35 plants can help your raspberries thrive? You won’t regret it!
1. Marigold
One might say that this plant is more than just a pretty face. Marigolds stand as a natural pest deterrent, keeping those pesky bugs away from your raspberries.
Their hues are a treat for the eyes, turning your garden into an artwork. In addition to their beauty, marigolds exude a distinct aroma that wards off nematodes, benefiting the roots of raspberry plants.
Who knew something so beautiful could be so hardworking in the garden?
2. Chives
Chives aren’t just a kitchen favorite, they’re also a secret weapon in the garden. I’ve planted them next to my raspberries, and I can’t tell you how much they’ve helped with pest control.
The strong onion scent seems to keep aphids and other unwanted insects at bay, all while adding a pop of color with their pretty purple flowers.
Plus, I’ve found that they don’t just look great, they make my raspberries thrive, too. So, if you’re looking for a plant that does double duty, chives are a must-have!
3. Garlic
The unsung hero of the garden, known for its culinary magic and pest repelling prowess. Garlic is a stealthy warrior against spider mites and aphids, ensuring your raspberries remain safe from harm.
Planting garlic near raspberries can also enhance their flavor. Its strong scent may drive pests away, but it draws in gardeners who know its true value.
Just imagine enjoying a raspberry that hints of garlic’s protection!
4. Nasturtium
A surprising ally in the garden, offering protection and refreshing blooms. Nasturtiums act as a trap crop, luring aphids away from your precious raspberries.
Their colorful flowers, ranging from fiery orange to deep red, add a whimsical touch to the garden landscape.
These plants are not just about looks; they serve as a safety net for your berries. It’s like hiring a bodyguard with a penchant for fashion!
5. Onions
These bulbous plants have their own charm. Onions, with their pungent aroma, are excellent at keeping pests at bay from your raspberries.
Their presence in the garden signifies a natural defense system, allowing raspberries to grow undisturbed. Moreover, they contribute a subtle flavor enhancement to the berries when planted nearby.
Who knew a simple onion could be such a great bodyguard?
6. Tansy
Have you ever heard of a plant that silently protects your garden? Tansy is one of those unsung heroes!
With its fern-like leaves and yellow flowers, it not only adds texture to your space but also works as a natural pest repellent.
Ever wondered how to keep bugs away from your raspberries without harsh chemicals? Tansy’s your answer!
It’s like having a secret bodyguard for your plants, quietly keeping pests at bay while you enjoy the fruits of your labor. Wouldn’t you want this stealthy defender in your garden?
7. Yarrow
In the realm of companion plants, some are legends. Yarrow is celebrated for attracting beneficial insects that help pollinate raspberries and fight off harmful pests.
With its feathery foliage and clusters of tiny blooms, it introduces a touch of grace to your garden. Not to mention, yarrow can improve soil quality, which in turn supports healthier raspberry growth.
It’s like having a garden caretaker that never asks for a paycheck!
8. Borage
When you need a plant that offers both beauty and utility, this one’s a star. Borage, with its distinct blue flowers, attracts pollinators such as bees to your raspberry patch.
Its leaves are rich in minerals, and when they decompose, they enrich the soil, benefitting all plants around. It’s not just a pretty plant; it’s a garden enhancer, making your raspberries taste even better.
A flower that feeds the earth while pleasing the eyes!
9. Clover
Sometimes the simplest plants make the biggest impact, and clover is a perfect example. I remember planting it around my raspberries one year, and it worked wonders.
Not only does it fix nitrogen in the soil to give the raspberries a boost, but it also keeps the weeds at bay. The dense foliage acts like a natural mulch, keeping the soil moist and protecting the roots from the sun.
It’s like having a little helper in the garden, always working quietly, ensuring everything thrives without me having to lift a finger!
10. Mint
Ah, the refreshing scent that makes you think of summer drinks! Mint not only brings its invigorating aroma but also its pest-repelling abilities to the garden.
Its invasive nature means it should be planted with care, but when managed, it can deter unwanted insects from raspberries. Plus, you’ll have a fresh supply of mint leaves for tea or mojitos.
11. Thyme
An unsuspecting powerhouse for garden health, often underestimated. Thyme’s aromatic oils are offensive to pests, which means your raspberries get to grow peacefully.
Its low-growing nature makes it a superb ground cover, preventing weeds from taking over. The delightful scent is a bonus for any gardener tending to their raspberry patch.
It’s like having a secret weapon that also smells amazing!
12. Basil
Who would think that a kitchen favorite could be so versatile? Basil isn’t just for pesto; it protects raspberries by repelling harmful insects with its aromatic oils.
Its lush green leaves add a touch of elegance and practicality to the garden. This friendly herb also enhances the flavor profile of nearby plants.
Imagine a garden where your raspberries and basil thrive together, each benefiting from the other’s presence.
13. Lemon Balm
The gentle lemon aroma that wafts through the garden is hard to resist. Lemon balm not only adds fragrance but acts as a natural pest repellent for raspberries.
This herb’s calming scent is a delight for gardeners and a deterrent for unwanted bugs. Its lush foliage provides cover and support to raspberry plants, making it a dual-purpose companion.
A calming presence that keeps trouble at bay in your garden!
14. Bee Balm
Set the stage for a pollinator paradise with this striking plant. Bee balm’s flowers attract bees and hummingbirds, turning your raspberry patch into a buzzing haven.
Its ability to draw beneficial insects ensures your raspberries are well-pollinated and thriving. This plant adds a splash of color, making your garden not just productive but also picturesque.
A dazzling performer in the garden show!
15. Fennel
Fennel is a misunderstood plant that can be a great companion if given its space. It attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which help control pest populations around raspberries.
Its tall stature and feathery foliage make it an interesting visual addition to the garden. While it needs space to avoid competition, when thoughtfully planted, fennel can be a powerful ally.
A towering friend, watching over your raspberries!
16. Dill
Did you know that dill is more than just a pickle seasoning? It actually helps protect your raspberries! By attracting beneficial predators, like ladybugs, dill keeps harmful pests away.
Plus, its airy growth won’t crowd your raspberries, giving them room to spread out. How cool is that? The bright yellow blooms are like little bursts of sunshine, too!
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a plant that helps your raspberries grow undisturbed while also brightening up your garden? Dill might just be the quiet hero your garden needs.
17. Lovage
This towering plant brings more than a hint of celery to the garden party. Lovage attracts beneficial insects with its umbels of yellow flowers, safeguarding your raspberries.
Its early growth cycle means it can provide support to younger raspberry plants, offering shade and protection.
Additionally, its tall stature doesn’t compete for space, allowing raspberries to grow unimpeded. A gentle giant, watching over the raspberry crew.
18. Horseradish
Looking for a spicy garden hero? Horseradish not only adds a bold kick to your dishes but also repels pests with its powerful roots!
The chemicals it releases keep unwanted bugs away from your raspberries, offering natural protection. Plus, its large, hearty leaves provide shade, helping retain moisture and block pesky weeds.
Just keep an eye on its spreading habits—it can be a little overzealous. With some care, though, horseradish becomes a fierce and spicy protector for your raspberry patch.
19. Rue
Rue is one of those plants that’s been a quiet hero in my garden. Its strong scent can be a bit overwhelming at first, but it’s worth it. Especially for keeping those pesky beetles away from raspberries.
I’ve noticed that since planting rue nearby, the beetles tend to stay far from my patch. Plus, its unique, feathery leaves add an interesting texture to the garden.
Rue might not be the most suitable plant for cooking, but it sure is a fantastic garden protector. It’s like having a guard keeping my raspberries safe!
20. Hyssop
A plant that hums with the joy of bees, ensuring your garden stays lively. Hyssop’s fragrant blooms attract pollinators, leading to better yields for your raspberry plants.
Its bushy growth adds structure and beauty to any garden setup. Known for its medicinal properties, hyssop brings an ancient wisdom to modern gardening.
An ever-watchful guardian that nurtures the life around it.
21. Feverfew
This plant is more than just visual appeal. Feverfew acts as a natural insect deterrent, keeping aphids and other pests away from raspberries.
Its bright, daisy-like flowers bring a touch of cheerfulness to any garden. While it stands pretty, feverfew works tirelessly to maintain harmony in the garden environment.
A sunny presence, always ready to lend a helping hand.
22. Parsley
This humble herb offers more than just garnish potential. Parsley attracts beneficial insects that feast on raspberry pests, thus reducing their numbers.
Its lush growth provides ground cover, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. A versatile herb that works behind the scenes, ensuring your raspberries have a suitable environment to flourish.
23. Catnip
Catnip is one of those plants that’s just fun to have around, especially if you have curious cats! But, believe it or not, it’s not just my cats that love it.
I’ve found that catnip does wonders for keeping pests away from my raspberries. Its strong aroma drives insects off, while the little white flowers attract pollinators, giving the garden a nice boost.
Plus, its playful vibe makes my garden even more enjoyable. It’s like having a garden guardian and a cat playground all in one! How can you resist a plant that does so much?
24. Coriander
A flavorful herb that doubles as a protective shield for raspberries. Coriander attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies, which help control aphid populations.
Its lacy flowers and aromatic leaves make it a charming addition to any raspberry patch. Not only does it provide culinary benefits, but it also supports the health and growth of neighboring plants.
25. Chamomile
Chamomile isn’t just for tea. It’s a garden superhero in disguise! This soothing herb attracts beneficial insects that work hard to protect your raspberries from pests.
I’ve noticed that with chamomile nearby, my garden feels more balanced, like everything’s in perfect harmony. Plus, those dainty white flowers are the perfect touch of calm and beauty in any garden.
It’s like having a little pocket of peace while boosting the health of your plants. Who wouldn’t want a companion that keeps everything running smoothly while adding a tranquil vibe?
26. Sage
Sage is so much more than just a kitchen essential. It’s a garden powerhouse! With its aromatic leaves, it naturally repels pests, creating a peaceful space for raspberries to flourish.
I love how its silvery foliage adds a touch of elegance to the garden, while its sturdy structure stands tall like a silent protector.
Beyond its culinary magic, sage plays a vital role in keeping my raspberry patch safe from unwanted visitors. If you’re looking for a plant that’s both functional and beautiful, sage is a choice you won’t regret!
27. Oregano
Oregano’s aromatic oils naturally repel pests, creating a safe zone for raspberry plants to thrive. The growth habit of oregano works like a living mulch, helping to suppress weeds and retain moisture in the soil.
This herb isn’t just about flavor. It multitasks as both a culinary delight and a protective ally for your garden.
With its fragrant presence, oregano proves to be a versatile plant that serves multiple purposes with ease.
28. Rosemary
These beauties offer more than just aroma. Rosemary repels certain pests, safeguarding the raspberry plants nearby.
Its robust growth adds structure and visual interest to the garden landscape. Beyond its culinary prowess, rosemary stands as a steadfast guardian against garden pests.
A stalwart ally in the fight for a healthy raspberry patch.
29. Sunflowers
Towering giants that bring sunshine and protection to the garden. Sunflowers attract pollinators, enhancing the fruiting of raspberry plants.
Their tall stalks can provide shade and support for additional garden plants. Beyond their impressive height and beauty, sunflowers serve as a living scaffold for your raspberry bushes.
30. Geraniums
Geraniums are a garden powerhouse! Their blooms not only brighten up your space but also emit a scent that keeps pesky insects away.
This way it’s giving your raspberries a safer, healthier growing environment. Talk about multitasking! These colorful beauties don’t just look good.
They work hard to protect your garden, creating a lively, pest-free atmosphere. With geraniums around, your raspberry patch is in good hands (and colorful, fragrant ones at that!).
31. Peas
Peas have been one of my garden’s best-kept secrets! Not only do they provide a delicious crop, but they’ve also worked wonders for my raspberry patch.
I love how their climbing vines don’t take up precious ground space, letting the raspberries flourish. Plus, as they fix nitrogen in the soil, I’ve noticed the raspberries growing stronger and healthier each season.
Peas truly serve double duty, nourishing the soil while giving me a tasty harvest. If you’re looking for a plant that does more than just look good, peas are the perfect, productive companion!
32. Lettuce
A salad staple that serves a bigger role in the garden ecosystem. Lettuce provides ground cover, suppressing weeds and preserving soil moisture for raspberries.
Its shallow roots ensure it doesn’t compete with berry plants for nutrients. While it’s a delicious addition to meals, lettuce also supports the health of neighboring plants.
A humble helper that quietly enriches the garden.