Basil will grow much better in the garden if planted with one common herb

is one of the easiest to grow and can be used in a wide variety of , from pasta sauces to salads and even infused oils. But even this can sometimes struggle to grow properly, especially if it's in the wrong part of the or surrounded by that don't help it thrive.

That's where the idea of companion planting comes in. Companion are herbs, or that benefit each other when grown nearby. Some boost growth, others protect against , and a few even improve flavour. Getting the combination right can make a big difference to how well your herbs do, and basil is no exception.

One of the best companion plants for basil is chives. According to gardening experts at , chives are not only easy to grow themselves, but they also help basil flourish.

When planted together, chives can help protect basil from common pests like aphids, thanks to their strong smell which acts as a natural repellent.

They also attract helpful insects like bees, which can boost pollination and improve the overall health of your garden.

Chives share similar growing conditions to basil, preferring sunny spots and well-drained soil.

Both herbs do well with regular watering, so looking after them together is easy.

Plus, having both in your garden means you'll always have two kitchen staples within reach.

Chives aren't the only plant that works well with basil. Gardenia.net says that tomatoes are another great option.

Not only do the two grow well side by side, but basil is also thought to improve the flavour of nearby tomatoes.

Peppers, oregano, parsley and asparagus are also good companions, offering protection from pests and attracting useful insects.

Some flowers like marigolds and nasturtiums can also help. They keep away harmful bugs and bring colour to your garden too.

However, there are a few plants that should never be grown near basil.

Gardenia.net warns that fennel can stunt basil's growth because it releases chemicals that interfere with nearby plants.

Sage is another poor choice as it prefers drier soil, while basil likes more moisture. Rue is also best avoided, as the two don't mix well together.