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.
