When it comes to planting sage in your herb garden, it’s important to consider its companions. While sage is a versatile and hardy herb, there are a few plants that should not be planted near it. One such plant is common rue. Rue and sage do not make good neighbors in the garden, as rue can inhibit the growth of sage.
Common rue, scientifically known as Ruta graveolens, is a perennial herb that is known for its strong aroma and bitter taste. It has been used historically for its medicinal properties and as an insect repellent. However, when it comes to planting rue near sage, it’s best to avoid it.
The reason why rue and sage should not be planted together is due to the allelopathic effects of rue. Allelopathy refers to the ability of certain plants to release chemicals into the soil that can inhibit the growth of nearby plants. In the case of rue, it contains compounds called coumarins, which can have a negative impact on sage.
When rue is planted near sage, the coumarins released by rue can interfere with sage’s growth and development. This can result in stunted growth, reduced vigor, and overall poor performance of the sage plant. Therefore, it’s best to keep these two herbs separate in your garden.
If you’re looking for alternative herbs to plant near sage, there are several options that can complement sage’s growth. One such herb is summer savory, which not only pairs well with sage in culinary dishes but also doesn’t have any negative effects on its growth. Summer savory (Satureja hortensis) is an annual herb that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a suitable companion for sage.
Another herb that can be planted near sage is chamomile. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a perennial herb that has a calming effect and is often used for its medicinal properties. It has small, daisy-like flowers and a pleasant aroma. Chamomile and sage can coexist well in the garden, as they have similar growing requirements and do not negatively affect each other’s growth.
When planting sage in your herb garden, it’s important to consider its companions. Common rue should be avoided as it can inhibit the growth of sage due to its allelopathic effects. However, there are alternative herbs such as summer savory and chamomile that can be planted near sage without any adverse effects. By choosing the right companions for your sage plant, you can create a harmonious and thriving herb garden.
