58 Companion Plants for Grapes

We’ve put in four grapevines this spring; two white grapes, and two Concords. I planted them in a bed bordering the outer side of my garden fence. The plan is to train them especially in the wire fencing.

grape vine
grape vine

But since the vines will grow vertically, the entire ground of the bed will be bare of growth.

It’s such a shame to me to waste all of that space, so I started looking into what might be good to plant there; which plants will benefit my grapevines, and which should I avoid putting too close to them?

Here’s what I’ve found out…

Why Do Grapes Need Companion Plants?

As any gardener knows, grapevines are notoriously difficult to grow. They’re susceptible to all sorts of pests and diseases, and they need just the right amount of sunlight and water. However, one of the best ways to ensure a healthy grapevine is to plant it alongside a companion plant.

Companion plants can provide grapes with the nutrients they need, help to ward off pests, and provide shade on hot days. Additionally, they can help to keep the vine itself from spreading too far and taking over the garden.

Let’s take a closer look.

Help With Pollination

In order for grapevines to be pollinated by insects, they need a variety of companion plants.

Companion plants provide a source of pollen for bees and other pollinating insects, as well as a place for them to rest and gather nectar.

In return, these insects help to ensure that grapevines are properly pollinated and produce a bountiful crop. Companionship is essential for grapevines, and a well-chosen mix of plants can make all the difference in ensuring a healthy harvest.

Deter Pests

If you’ve ever grown grapes, you know that they can be susceptible to all sorts of pests and diseases. As a result, many grape growers choose to plant companion plants that help to discourage predators.

One common companion plant is basil. Not only does it have a strong scent that deters many insects, but it also attracts beneficial predators like ladybugs.

Add Soil Nutrients

Companion plants help to add essential nutrients to the soil, which can improve grapevine health and productivity. They also help to shade the grapes from intense sunlight, and they can provide food and shelter for beneficial insects.

Best Companion Plants for Grapes

Grapes are a versatile fruit that can be used in all sorts of dishes, from savory to sweet. They’re also a relatively easy plant to grow, provided you choose the right companion plants. Here are some good options!

Hyssop

Hyssop is a GREAT companion plant for grapes. The bees love their flowers, the plant acts as a deterrent to pests, and it helps to stimulate the growth and flavor of grapes.

Geraniums

Geraniums are beneficial to keeping pests away from grapevines, like those dreaded leafhoppers.

Wild Blackberries

Wild Blackberries growing within a mile from the vines create the perfect habitat for a beneficial, parasitic wasp which destroys the eggs of leafhoppers.

clover in the grass

Clover

Clover increases soil fertility for grapes.

Chives

Chives help to repel aphids.

mint and oregano growing in pots
mint and oregano growing in pots

Mint

If you’re thinking of planting a grapevine, you might want to consider adding some mint to your garden plot as well. Mint is a good companion plant for grapes for a few reasons. First, it helps to keep away pests that might damage the grapes. Second, it can help to prevent disease.

Catnip

Catnip is a member of the mint family, and like other mints, it is a vigorous grower. This can be beneficial when planted next to grapes, as the catnip will help to crowd out weeds and competing plants. In addition, the strong scent of catnip can help to repel pests such as aphids and mosquitoes.

Also, catnip releases a compound called nepetalactone into the soil, which has been shown to boost the growth of grapevines. In addition, the deep roots of the catnip will help to aerate the soil and increase water infiltration.

Chamomile

In the garden, chamomile is best known as a companion plant for grapes. The strong scent of chamomile deters many pests, including aphids, spider mites, and scale insects.

Additionally, chamomile releases a substance that inhibits the growth of fungi, making it an ideal companion plant for grapes, which are susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.

Chamomile also attracts beneficial bugs such as bees and ladybugs, which help to pollinate plants and keep pests in check.

dill plant
dill plant

Dill

One plant that is often used as a companion for grapes is dill. Dill has a number of advantages as a companion plant.

First, its tall, spiky growth habit helps to provide support for grapevines. Second, dill is known to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help to keep destructive pests in check.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a versatile plant that can be used in culinary, medicinal, and pest control applications. In the garden, lemongrass makes an excellent companion plant for grapes. The strong scent of lemongrass helps to mask the grapevine’s natural aroma, making it less attractive to pests.

Additionally, the sprawling growth habit of lemongrass can help to shade and cool the grapes, preventing sunburn and protecting against heat stress. As a bonus, lemongrass also provides a natural source of nitrogen, helping to promote vine growth.

Marigolds

Marigolds are well known for their ability to deter pests, but did you know that they make a great companion plant for grapes?

The strong scent of marigolds helps to repel aphids, whiteflies, and other common grape pests. In addition, the brightly colored flowers can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which help to keep the grape vines healthy.

Marjoram

Marjoram is a versatile and easy-to-grow herb that makes a great companion plant for grapes. For one thing, its strong aroma helps to repel pests such as aphids and mites, which can damage grapevines.

Marjoram is also known for its ability to improve the flavor of grapes, making them sweeter and more aromatic.

Additionally, this herb can help to increase the production of essential oils in grapevines, which can add depth and complexity to the flavor of wine. Finally, marjoram is a drought-tolerant plant that requires little care, making it a low-maintenance option for grape growers.

Tarragon

Tarragon has unique, narrow, dark green leaves and produces small, yellow-green flowers. The leaves have a pungent, anise-like flavor that is used to season vinegars, mustards, and stews.

Tarragon is also a good companion plant for grapes. Tarragon repels Japanese beetles and other pests that attack grape vines.

In addition, tarragon helps to increase the production of essential oils in grape plants, which makes the grapes more flavorful. Tarragon also releases nutrients into the soil that are beneficial for grapes.

Thyme

If you’re thinking of growing grapes, you might want to consider planting some thyme as well. Thyme is a good companion plant for grapes for a few reasons.

First, it can help to deter pests and diseases. Second, it helps to improve the drainage in the soil, which is important for grapevines. Third, thyme also has a beneficial effect on the flavor of the grapes. When the two plants are grown together, the grapes tend to have a more complex flavor with hints of thyme.

Sunflowers

If you’re looking for a companion plant for your grape vines, sunflowers are a great option. Sunflowers are tall and slender, so they won’t compete with the grapes for space or sunlight. In addition, sunflowers can help to support the grapevines and protect them from wind damage.

The roots of sunflowers also help to aerate the soil and improve drainage, which can be beneficial for grapevines. And last but not least, sunflowers are simply beautiful plants that add color and interest to any garden.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a hardy plant that can tolerate poor soil and dry conditions. It also has a strong scent that helps to repel pests such as grapevine borers. In addition, rosemary produces nectar that attracts beneficial insects such as bees and ladybirds. These insects help to pollinate grapes and control grapevine pests.

Beans

There are many reasons why beans make a good companion plant for grapes. For one, they help to improve the drainage of the soil, which is important for grapevines. Additionally, beans add nitrogen to the soil, which is an essential nutrient for grapes.

They also help to shade the grapevines from the hot sun, and their roots act as a support system for the vines. Furthermore, beans deter pests and predators from the grapevines, providing natural protection against damage.

Peas

Peas are a popular choice for companion planting, and they make a great addition to any grapevine. Peas are nitrogen-fixing plants, meaning they help to improve the quality of the soil. In addition, their nitrogen-rich foliage provides a natural mulch for grapevines, helping to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Peas also produce a chemical that helps to prevent fungal diseases from infecting grapevines. And their trailing habit means they can act as a living trellis pole for vines, providing support and helping to keep grapes off the ground where they are more likely to rot.

Oregano

If you’re a fan of both oregano and grapes, you might be wondering if they can be grown together. The good news is that oregano makes an excellent companion plant for grapes! Here are a few reasons why.

Oregano helps to repel pests such as aphids, which can damage grape vines. The aromatic oils in oregano can help to mask the scent of grapes, making them less attractive to predators.

Oregano also helps to promote healthy growth in grapevines by increasing the level of nitrogen in the soil.

Tansy

Tansy is a well-known companion plant for grapes. The reason for this is that tansy repels a wide variety of pests, including Japanese beetles, ants, and moths. In addition, tansy helps to improve the flavor of grapes by deterring mold growth. Tansy is also easy to grow and care for, making it a low-maintenance option for grape growers.

Asparagus

When it comes to grapevines, one of the best companion plants is asparagus. Asparagus is a hardy plant that is relatively tolerant of poor soil conditions.

It also has deep roots that help to anchor the soil in place, preventing erosion. In addition, asparagus produces a compound that helps to inhibit the growth of fungi, making it an ideal partner for grapes.

Oak Trees

Oak trees provide essential shade for young grape vines, protecting them from the harsh midday sun. The oak tree’s broad leaves also help to retain moisture in the soil, which is essential for healthy grape growth.

In addition, the oak tree’s deep roots system helps to break up compacted soil, allowing grape vines to more easily access vital nutrients. Finally, the oak tree’s large canopy helps to create a microclimate around the grape vines, moderating temperature extremes and creating a more hospitable environment for grape cultivation.

Lavender

Lavender is a fragrant, drought-tolerant herb that is known for its calming effects. It is also a good companion plant for grapes (Vitis vinifera), as it can help to protect the vines from fungal diseases.

Lavender produces a volatile oil that has antifungal properties, and it also helps to repel insects such as aphids and mites. In addition, the dense network of roots helps to prevent soil erosion and provides nutrients for the grapevines.

Elm Trees

Elm trees are a good companion plant for grapes because they provide shade and shelter from the wind. They also help to regulate soil moisture levels and prevent the growth of weeds.

Additionally, elm trees produce a deep root system that helps to break up compacted soils and improve drainage. This can be beneficial for grapevines, which prefer well-drained soils.

In general, elm trees are hardy and easy to care for, making them a low-maintenance option for those looking to add some greenery to their grapevines.

Mulberry Trees

Mulberry trees are often used as companion plants for grapes. There are several reasons for this. First, mulberry trees can help to shade the grapes and protect them from excessive sun exposure. Second, the roots of mulberry trees can help to aerate the soil and improve drainage.

Third, the leaves of mulberry trees can provide natural mulch for the grapes. Finally, the berries of mulberry trees can attract birds, which can help to control pests in the grapevines.

Basil

Basil is a great companion plant for grapes for a number of reasons. First, it helps to repel pests that can damage grape vines, such as aphids and whiteflies. In addition, basil emits a strong fragrance that can mask the scent of the grapes, making it more difficult for predators to find them.

Finally, basil provides shade and protection from the sun for the grapes, helping to keep them cool and prevent sunburn.

Other Great Companion Plants for Grapes

A few other good companion plants for grapes (for all the reasons listed above) include:

  • Strawberries
  • Onions and leek plants
  • Mustard
  • Coriander
  • Other legumes (in addition to beans and peas)
  • Cucumbers
  • Nasturtiums
  • Sage
  • Broccoli, kale, kohlrabi, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts (and other cruciferous vegetables that are considered cole crops)
  • Beets
  • Swiss chard
  • Spinach
  • Parsley
  • Turnip
  • Eggplant
  • Carrots
  • Potatoes
  • Celery
  • Pumpkin
  • Okra
  • Lemon balm
  • Horseradish
  • Corn
  • Squash
  • Raspberries
  • Apple trees and other fruit trees
  • Borage
  • Peppers
  • Tomato plants
  • Raspberries
  • Lettuce
  • Cosmos

What Not to Plant With Grapes

If you’re thinking about planting grapes, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Plants That Will Overly Enrich Soil Fertility

If you’re a gardener, you know that healthy plants need fertile soil. However, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Planting grapevines can actually lead to soil fertility becoming overloaded with nutrients, which can be harmful to plants.

The roots of grapes are very efficient at taking up nutrients from the soil, and this can lead to an imbalance in the soil’s fertility. In addition, grapevines produce a lot of leaves, which decompose quickly and release nutrients back into the soil. This can create a cycle of nutrient overload that can be difficult to break.

Black Walnuts

Black walnut trees release a substance known as juglone, which can be toxic to other plants. Therefore, it’s generally not a good idea to plant grapes near black walnut trees. The roots of the black walnut tree can also compete with other plants for water and nutrients, making it difficult for them to thrive.

Collard Greens

Collard greens and grapes are two very different plants. Collard greens are a leafy vegetable that grows best in cool weather, while grapes are a fruit that thrives in warm climates. As a result, planting collard greens and grapes together can be difficult.

The different temperature requirements can result in the plants competing for resources, and the grape vines can easily overpower the collard greens. In addition, the grapes will produce a lot of shade, which the collard greens may not be able to tolerate.

Garlic

Garlic and grapes are two popular plants, but you might be surprised to learn that they don’t make good companions.

Here’s why: garlic gives off a chemical that can harm grapevines. In addition, both plants compete for the same nutrients in the soil. For these reasons, it’s best to plant garlic and grapes in separate areas of your garden.

Cabbage

While you may be tempted to plant all of your favorite crops together in one garden, there are some plants that simply don’t get along. Cabbage and grapes are a prime example.

Cabbage is a heavy feeder, meaning it requires rich soil with plenty of nutrients to grow well. Grapes, on the other hand, are relatively tolerant of poorer soil conditions.

As the cabbage grows and takes up more nutrients, it can leave the grapes struggling to find enough food. Additionally, cabbage is a cool-season crop while grapes are best planted in the late spring or early summer. This means that they will be competing for space in the garden as well as for nutrients.

Radishes

Do NOT plant with cabbage.

Final Thoughts

I happened to have some Hyssop seeds, so I got them started today. I really should have had them growing already (8 weeks before last frost), but I’m gonna give it a shot anyway.

hyssop flowers
hyssop flowers

Hyssop is a perennial, so once I can get them going I can look forward to the plants coming back every year. It also has medicinal uses, which I plan on experimenting with eventually.

hyssop plants
hyssop plants

I think I’ll also get some Geraniums to plant underneath the vines. That’ll be a nice way to pretty up the space, and attract beneficial pollinators.

pdf icon

Hope this is helpful to somebody! If you know of any other good companion plants for grapevines, or any other tips in general, please do share. Oh, and feel free to get this PDF with the two lists of what you can and cannot plant around your grapes, too!

12 thoughts on “58 Companion Plants for Grapes”

  1. Thanks! Just planted some basil next to my grapes. Also, already next to a baby mulberry, and some brassica so it’ll be an experiment!

    Reply
  2. Oh legend! I have 3 grape vines going in shortly and was also thinking it would be bare under them. They’ll be growing along one of the fences by our garden so anything that attracts the bees has to be a good thing – hullo hyssop πŸ˜‰ and wild blackberries grow all over the place round here! Thanks for this πŸ™‚

    Reply
  3. Take care when mulching with fresh wood chips because the process of decomposition will actually leach nitrogen from the soil.

    Reply
  4. Thank you for posting this. I was thinking of doing grapevines someday and will keep this information. Thank you again!

    Reply
  5. Rose Bushes,

    “Both roses and grape vines are susceptible to the same diseases. Indeed, roses act as early warning of mildew which is a fungal disease. There are two main kinds of mildews: Powdery mildew (Oidium).. [&] ..Downy mildew.”

    Reply

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