Companion Plants for Cilantro

Cultivation

• Ideally, cilantro should be planted in full sunlight, but it will thrive in partial shade. Whether potted or in the garden, cilantro should be planted in well-drained soil. Cilantro grows up to 2 feet high, and each plant should be spaced 1 to 1 1/2 feet apart. Cilantro is propagated from seed. Other herbs that grow in well-drained soil and bright sunlight, including sage and parsley, may be planted in the same bed with cilantro because all have similar cultivation needs.

Pest Control

• Cilantro may be used as a companion plant throughout the garden because of its natural pest-repelling nature. The smell of cilantro keeps aphids away. Aphids cause damage to many different plants by feeding on tender, young growth. Place cilantro near any plants prone to aphid attack to keep the damaging insects at bay.

Companions

• When cilantro is planted with anise, radish and spinach plants, it will germinate and grow more quickly. Potatoes also have a beneficial effect on cilantro, helping the herb to grow faster. Cilantro companion plants do not compete with the herb for nutrients, and will not draw dangerous insects that may harm the cilantro.

Incompatible

• Roses and cilantro are not compatible as companion plants. The two may fight each other for nutrients, which could result in unhealthy growth for both. Fennel, despite being another herb, is also not a good companion for cilantro for the same reasons. Avoid planting cilantro in the same area where roses or fennel have been planted in the past year, and do not place these incompatible plants close together in the garden.