The Delicious Herb You Should Plant Next To Zinnias In The Garden

Basil is an excellent companion plant for zinnias for many breeds. First, it is a fantastic pollinator, drawing in bees and birds to help provide the pollination needed to support zinnia flowers. This often allows you to extend the flowering season as well – from the first weeks of summer and through autumn until the first frost. Basil and zinnias also need the same basic conditions to thrive. It prefers full sun from 6 to 8 hours a day. Keep in mind that you need some space between the two, as zinnias can grow tall and limit sun exposure to shorter basil plants planted too close together. Both plants do well with sun and heat, but when there is too much shade or moisture that does not dissipate quickly enough, both plants are susceptible to mildew and fungus. By creating a supportive environment, both of these plants should thrive.

Basil needs well-drained soil with an organic makeup and nutrients. Those organic nutrients help the basil plant complete with healthy leaves, adding a secondary benefit of companion aromas (which can benefit your neighboring tomatoes). Zinnias also benefit from strong, organic soil with a pH balance between 5.5 and 7.5 for best results. Because their needs are closely related, you can plant them in the same planter (with enough space between them) or next to each other in a garden or flower bed.