As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with some insights on planting basil and sage together. While there are no hard and fast rules in gardening, it is generally recommended to avoid planting basil and sage together.
Basil is known to prefer the company of vegetables rather than other herbs. It thrives when planted alongside tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant. The aromatic oils released by basil can help repel pests that commonly affect these vegetables. Additionally, the flavors of basil and tomatoes complement each other in culinary dishes.
On the other hand, sage is a herb that prefers more space and can grow quite large. It has a strong aroma and is often used in savory dishes. Planting basil near sage can result in the basil being overpowered by the strong scent of sage.
Furthermore, basil and sage have different growth habits and nutritional requirements. Basil is an annual herb that requires regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from flowering too soon. Sage, on the other hand, is a perennial herb that requires less frequent pruning.
In my personal experience, I have found that planting basil and sage together can result in competition for nutrients and space. Basil tends to grow quickly and can overshadow the sage, reducing its growth potential. Additionally, sage can release certain chemicals into the soil that may inhibit the growth of basil.
To summarize, while there are no strict rules in gardening, it is generally recommended to avoid planting basil and sage together. Basil prefers the company of vegetables and may be overshadowed by sage’s strong scent and growth habit. It is best to consider the specific needs and preferences of each herb when planning your garden layout.
