Perfect Companion Plants For Flower Beds & Gardens
Here’s a companion planting chart for native perennials designed to support biodiversity, improve soil health, and attract beneficial insects. Each pairing considers factors like root depth, light needs, bloom times, and compatibility.
Native Perennial | Companion Plants | Reason for Pairing |
---|---|---|
Coneflower (Echinacea) | Black-eyed Susan, Bee Balm, Blazing Star | Attract pollinators; similar soil and sunlight needs. |
Milkweed (Asclepias) | Wild Bergamot, Goldenrod, Joe-Pye Weed | Supports pollinators like butterflies; blooms staggered for a continuous nectar source. |
Black-eyed Susan | Purple Coneflower, Coreopsis, Yarrow | Dense foliage suppresses weeds and attracts pollinators. |
Wild Bergamot | Milkweed, Goldenrod, Blanket Flower | Encourages pollinators; complementary root structures avoid nutrient competition. |
Goldenrod (Solidago) | New England Aster, Big Bluestem Grass | Hosts beneficial insects; supports monarch migration. |
Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium) | Turtlehead, Ironweed, Blue Flag Iris | Thrives in moist conditions; attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. |
Yarrow (Achillea) | Blanket Flower, Coreopsis, Little Bluestem | Improves soil quality; repels harmful insects while attracting pollinators. |
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia) | Lanceleaf Coreopsis, Wild Bergamot | Drought-tolerant; offers color and pollinator support throughout the season. |
New England Aster | Goldenrod, Switchgrass, Milkweed | Staggered bloom times; supports late-season pollinators. |
Blue Flag Iris | Cardinal Flower, Marsh Milkweed | Prefers moist soil; supports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. |
Notes for Success: Companion Plants 101
- Group by Sun and Soil Needs: Pair plants with similar light and soil requirements to ensure healthy growth.
- Diversity is Key: Various shapes, heights, and bloom times enhance ecological balance.
- Add Native Grasses: Include companions like Little Bluestem or Switchgrass to provide a habitat for beneficial insects.