Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) are popular flowering plants known for their vibrant blooms and aromatic foliage. They thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil, making them ideal for flower beds. Companion planting with geraniums can enhance their growth, deter pests, and create visually appealing garden designs. Below, we explore the best companion plants for geraniums, categorized by their benefits.
Geraniums naturally repel certain pests, but pairing them with other pest-deterring plants can amplify this effect:
Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Lavender's strong fragrance deters mosquitoes and aphids, while its purple flowers complement geraniums' bright hues.
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.): Marigolds release a chemical that repels nematodes and whiteflies, protecting geraniums' roots and foliage.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum): Basil wards off thrips and flies, and its lush green foliage contrasts beautifully with geranium blooms.
Pairing geraniums with plants that bloom at different times or in contrasting colors can extend the visual interest of flower beds:
Salvia (Salvia spp.): The tall, spiky flowers of salvia provide height contrast, while their blue or purple tones highlight geraniums' reds and pinks.
Petunias (Petunia spp.): Petunias offer a cascading growth habit, ideal for filling gaps around upright geraniums. Their wide color range allows for creative combinations.
Alyssum (Lobularia maritima): This low-growing plant produces tiny white or purple flowers that create a delicate border around geraniums.
Plants with unique foliage can enhance geraniums' visual appeal by adding texture and depth:
Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria): Its silvery-gray leaves provide a striking contrast to geraniums' green foliage and bright flowers.
Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides): Coleus comes in vibrant leaf colors (e.g., burgundy, lime green) that complement or contrast with geranium blooms.
Ornamental Grasses (e.g., Festuca glauca): Grasses add movement and a wispy texture, softening the boldness of geranium flowers.
Some plants improve soil health, benefiting geraniums' growth:
Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus): These act as a living mulch, retaining soil moisture and suppressing weeds. Their flowers also attract pollinators.
Clover (Trifolium spp.): As a nitrogen-fixer, clover enriches the soil, promoting healthier geranium growth.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): Yarrow's deep roots aerate the soil and draw up nutrients, improving conditions for nearby plants.
While many plants pair well with geraniums, some should be avoided due to incompatible needs:
Shade-Loving Plants (e.g., Hostas): Geraniums require full sun, so shade-tolerant plants may struggle in the same bed.
Water-Loving Species (e.g., Ferns): Overwatering can harm geraniums, making moisture-dependent plants poor companions.
Invasive Spreaders (e.g., Mint): Aggressive growers can outcompete geraniums for nutrients and space.
