What to Plant Near Blackberries

Tansy

• Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) has a vigorous growth habit and is virtually maintenance free. The plant works as a natural insect repellent and effectively prevents striped cucumber beetles, Japanese beetles, ants, squash bugs and flies from damaging blackberry bushes.

  The plant is easily grown from directly sowing seeds in the early spring after all danger of frost has passed. Sprinkle a fine 1/4-inch layer of soil over the seeds' surface and lightly water for ideal germination to occur. Space the tansy at least 6 inches away from the blackberry bushes for best results. The plants prefer full sunlight, so make sure that the blackberry bushes do not block out the tansy plant's need for sun.

  Tansy makes an ideal border plant beside blackberry bushes. The flowers are easily cut for use in flower bouquets or for drying.

Rue

• Common rue (Ruta graveolens) grows as a small evergreen shrub. It rarely exceeds a height of 3 feet. The greenish-blue foliage produces a strong pungent aroma. Care should be taken when handling the foliage because sensitive individuals can develop an itching rash reaction.

  Plant rue around blackberry bushes to create an attractive border. The plant responds well to pruning so will tolerate being cut back to make more room for the vigorous blackberry canes. This plant repels Japanese beetles, as well as cats, dogs, deer and some birds. Rue also grows well in containers that can be conveniently placed beside blackberry bushes.

  Rue grows best in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 4 to 9, according to Floridata. It requires full sunlight and adequate mulching to survive the winter months.

Wormwood

• Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) was once used in the production of the drink absinthe. A highly poisonous plant, the leaves are bitter to the taste which makes it ideal to surround blackberry bushes with, as it repels deer or other foraging animals. The smell of the plants' foliage is also a natural insect repellent.

  Space wormwood away from the blackberry bushes to allow it ample room to grow. It will normally attain a height of 3 feet with a spread of around 2 feet. It tolerates both full sunlight or partial shade. Once established it is also exceptionally drought tolerant.

Nasturtium

• The nasturtium grows well from seeds each spring. Space around the border of blackberry bushes to help prevent aphids. Once established the plant requires virtually no care or fertilization. Growers of berries and fruit trees believe that planting the nasturtium within the root zone of the trees or shrubs will also help them soak up the scent of the nasturtium which helps deter pests. The naturally pungent aroma of the nasturtium also helps attract beneficial predatory insects to the blackberry bushes.

  Space nasturtium 8 to 12 inches apart for ideal growing conditions. All parts of the plant are edible and widely used in salads.