You can plant a variety of companion plants with strawberries to improve growth, deter pests, and maximize garden space. Here are some of the best options:

Vegetables and Legumes

• Alliums (garlic, onions, leeks, shallots, chives): Their strong scent repels pests like slugs and aphids and may suppress fungal diseases affecting strawberries. Onions can be planted between strawberry plants, and chives or green onions work well in smaller beds

• Beans and peas : These legumes fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting strawberries which are heavy feeders. Bush beans can be planted between strawberry rows, and climbing varieties can grow on nearby trellises

• Spinach and lettuce : These leafy greens serve as living mulch, suppressing weeds and retaining moisture. Spinach may also produce compounds that protect strawberries from pests. Lettuce grows well in cool weather alongside strawberries

• Asparagus : Compatible with strawberries because their root systems spread differently, avoiding competition for nutrients

Herbs

• Marigolds : Help repel pests such as nematodes and wireworms while adding color to the garden

• Chives : Help prevent fungal diseases and deter pests

• Mint : Keeps ants and beetles away but should be planted with a root barrier to prevent overgrowth

• Lemon balm, oregano, sage, dill, cilantro, thyme, borage : These herbs attract pollinators and repel various pests, supporting strawberry health and yield

Flowers and Other Plants

• Lupins, yarrow, nasturtium, lavender, white clover : These flowers can attract beneficial insects and improve the growing environment for strawberries

• Lamb’s lettuce and garden lettuce : Good ground cover companions that also help deter pests like ants and fleas

Summary

Planting strawberries with alliums, legumes (beans and peas), leafy greens (spinach, lettuce), asparagus, and pest-repelling herbs and flowers (marigolds, chives, mint, lemon balm, oregano, sage, dill, cilantro, thyme, borage) creates a mutually beneficial garden environment. These companions help deter pests, improve soil fertility, attract pollinators, and reduce weed competition, leading to healthier and more productive strawberry plants

. Avoid planting heavy feeders or plants that shade strawberries excessively, as strawberries need good light and moderate nutrients. This approach maximizes your garden’s productivity and plant health by leveraging natural plant interactions.