Its feathery leaves and clusters of tiny, delicate blooms are instantly recognizable to anybody who has wandered through a garden or meadow filled with yarrow. Yarrow, or Achillea millefolium in its scientific name, is a beautiful hardy perennial that also plays an active role in the plot of the garden.
But yarrow, like any other plant, has a preference for its surroundings. The garden’s harmony can be greatly improved if you know what other plants should not be planted near the yarrow. Explore this exciting topic with me.
- Common yarrow is an herbaceous perennial plant native to both Eurasia and North America.
- In North America it grows in high elevation coniferous forests as well as dry, high desert.
- Yarrow is a perennial wildflower that reaches a height of 3 feet.
- It grows in disturbed sites and roadsides.
Understanding Yarrow
Let’s begin with a little introduction to yarrow. This sun-loving plant has roots that can extend out and claim territory as their own. It prefers a soil with good drainage and doesn’t like to be coddled. In fact, yarrow is known for its resiliency and may even thrive in harsh environments.
It’s not hard to understand why yarrow would be the highlight of a garden display. It has a bold character and grows rapidly, so it can occasionally shade out other plants and use their resources. That’s why knowing the garden allies and opponents of yarrow is crucial.
Benefits of Planting with Yarrow
Despite its diva-like tendencies in the garden, yarrow has many useful botanical applications. It is well-known for luring in pest-controlling insects like ladybugs and predatory wasps.
Yarrow’s extensive root system also works to gradually enhance soil quality. It’s great for boosting your garden’s health and resilience because it can reach water and nutrients deeper in the soil.
The importance of choosing appropriate plant companions for yarrow has become clearer now that we know more about its character and the benefits it provides. The next sections will discuss which plants go well with yarrow and which should be avoided near this combative flower.
Plants That Thrive with Yarrow
Imagine yarrow as a companion who appreciates the company of self-reliant individuals. Companion plants for yarrow tend to be hardy plants that do well in a similar environment. Since lavender and yarrow have a preference for full sun and loose, nutrient-rich soil, the two get along famously.
- STARTER HERBS: This four pack of Lavender is a great start to your own lavender field or in addition to your current garden.
- GROWTH: Lavender can get up to 3 ft tall and 4 ft wide, their silver green leaves and purple flowers are striking during the summer.
- CARE: Lavender plants thrive in full sunlight with well-draining soil that is on the drier side. Lavender is a resilient plant that is extremely drought-tolerant once established.
- FUN FACT: Lavender has been shown to affect the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls bodily processes such as heart rate, breathing rhythm, and hormone secretion; it even aids in sleep!
- LIVE PLANTS: Our plants are grown exclusively for Deep Roots and The Three Company, shipped fresh directly from our greenhouse to you!
A companion plant for yarrow that thrives in the sun and tolerates dry conditions is rosemary.
- Tiny, strongly aromatic & flavorful leaves, blue blooms
- Garden use: Herb garden, flower border, containers, low clipped hedge
- Culinary use: Italian & Mediterranean dishes, vinegars & oils, breads
- Plant in full sun for the best yields
- Plant during spring & fall
Coneflowers, like yarrow, thrive in full sun and dry soil, and they bring a beautiful splash of color to a yarrow-dominated garden.
- BEAUTIFUL COLOR: This gorgeous pink bee balm will be a beautiful addition to your garden!
- GROWTH: Bee Balm will grow to be about 2-4 feet tall, with a spread of 3-4 feet wide.
- CARE: Bee Balm grows best in full sunlight. Plant it in moist, well-draining soil and add organic matter for best results. Water every 1-2 weeks with a deep watering at the base of the plant.
- FUN FACT: Bee Balm, a member of the mint family, has been used topically to help with bee sting swelling, which is where its name comes from!
- LIVE PLANTS: Our plants are grown exclusively for Deep Roots and The Three Company, shipped fresh directly from our greenhouse to you!
What Not to Plant with Yarrow
Despite its friendly nature, yarrow isn’t always compatible with other plants. Plants that need a lot of shade or a lot of moisture could not do well in proximity to yarrow. Ferns and hostas, which prefer shade and damp conditions, would have a difficult time growing next to yarrow. Like space-hungry plants like squash and pumpkins, yarrow may quickly take over an area if left unchecked.
Tips for Planting with Yarrow
Yarrow can be used to create a beautiful and peaceful garden, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Let the yarrow grow in peace first. Keep in mind that it has a tendency to spread, so only plant it among other perennials that are equally able to hold their own. Second, yarrow does not like highly fertile soil, therefore you should not over-fertilize your plants. Third, consider growing your yarrow in a container or giving it regular trimming if you want to keep it from spreading too far.
Conclusion
It’s crucial to know which plants thrive next to yarrow and which ones may suffer if you want to enjoy gardening with yarrow. If you give yarrow and the plants it grows with the attention and care they deserve, you can build a beautiful, flourishing garden.
The next time you’re out in the garden planting or trimming, keep these suggestions in mind. To thrive, yarrow’s connections with its companions require sympathy, consideration, and space. Cheers to the wonderful world of gardening and yarrow!
