Companion plants for fenugreek

Fenugreek is a low-maintenance herb that grows to a height of about 60 cm ( 2 feet), producing clusters of small yellow flowers that eventually yield pods and seeds. Because it grows best in full sun and moist-to-dry soil, fenugreek should be planted with other herbs that enjoy similar conditions or as a background plant for smaller herbs that can tolerate their shade. Its seeds are used for seasoning vegetables and stews, while its sprouts can be eaten in salads.

Try interplanting basil with fenugreek for two herbs with a similar height, setting them 30 cm (12 inches) apart. Their cultural requirements are the same, and if you keep pinching back the flowers on both, you can prevent them from going to seed early.

Plant bunches of chives in front of fenugreek if your garden receives strong morning and afternoon light. Chives grow to a height of 30 cm (12 inches), with spiky, succulent foliage that contrasts with fenugreek's bushier, branching habit. Chives can also tolerate some overcrowding, and are good clumping herbs with edible flowers and bulbs.

Interplant fenugreek and sage for a fountain of yellow and purple flowers in summer. Both plants enjoy full sun and soil that dries out between waterings. Set them 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) apart to avoid overcrowding. The delicate, pale-green foliage of sage makes a pleasant contrast with fenugreek's broader, darker leaves, even when the plants are not blooming.

Plant lavender in the shade of fenugreek and it will thrive. It is particularly adapted to the dry soil that fenugreek requires, and won't get quite as tall. Cultivate the soil around both plantings, keeping it well-aerated and weed-free. Graceful and spreading against fenugreek's sturdier shape, lavender and fenugreek make an attractive combination.