Discover the 9 worst plants to grow near blueberries and why they harm your crop. Learn expert tips from Ashley Scott (10+ years gardening) to boost your harvest!
Hi, I’m Ashley Scott from USA Garden Hub, and over my 10+ years of gardening, I’ve learned the hard way that not all plants play nice with blueberries. One summer, I accidentally planted tomatoes near my blueberry bushes—big mistake! The tomatoes hogged nutrients, and my blueberries struggled. Let me share which plants to avoid and why, so you don’t repeat my errors.
Why Companion Planting Matters for Blueberries
Blueberries are picky. They need acidic soil (pH 4.5–5.5), plenty of sunlight, and minimal competition. Planting the wrong neighbors can:
- Alter soil pH
- Steal water/nutrients
- Attract pests
For example, after I moved my mint away from blueberries (thanks to tips from University of Minnesota Extension), the berries thrived!
The 9 Worst Plants to Grow Near Blueberries
1. Tomatoes
Why They’re Bad: Tomatoes prefer neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0), which clashes with blueberries’ acidic needs. They also attract pests like aphids.
My Fix: Swap tomatoes with acid-loving azaleas.
2. Peppers
Why They’re Bad: Peppers compete for nutrients and raise soil pH.
Lesson Learned: My bell peppers stunted blueberry growth until I relocated them.
3. Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli)
Why They’re Bad: These heavy feeders deplete nitrogen and calcium.
Expert Tip: Michigan State University recommends keeping brassicas 10+ feet away.
4. Potatoes
Why They’re Bad: Potatoes increase soil alkalinity and risk blight.
Better Option: Plant thyme—it deters pests and stays small.
5. Melons
Why They’re Bad: Melons sprawl, blocking sunlight and hogging water.
Storytime: My watermelon vines once shaded blueberries, delaying ripening.
6. Mint
Why They’re Bad: Mint spreads aggressively, choking blueberry roots.
Pro Tip: Grow mint in pots (like I do now!) to contain it.
7. Corn
Why They’re Bad: Tall corn shades blueberries and attracts birds.
Alternate Idea: Try sunflowers—they’re shorter and less invasive.
8. Raspberries
Why They’re Bad: Raspberries share pests like spotted-wing drosophila.
Solution: Separate them by 15+ feet (per Oregon State University).
9. Lavender
Why They’re Bad: Lavender thrives in alkaline soil, which harms blueberries.
Fix: Replace with cranberries—they love acidity too!
What Should You Plant Near Blueberries?
- Azaleas/Rhododendrons: Acidic soil buddies.
- Thyme: Pest deterrent.
- Lingonberries: Similar pH needs.
Check my blueberry companion planting guide for more ideas.
Key Takeaways to Save Your Blueberries
- Test Soil pH yearly (I use a $10 kit from Amazon).
- Avoid heavy feeders like corn and tomatoes.
- Mulch with pine needles to maintain acidity.
FAQs
Q: Can I plant strawberries near blueberries?
A: Yes! They both love acidic soil.
Q: What pH do blueberries need?
A: 4.5–5.5. Add sulfur if too alkaline.
Q: Do blueberries need full sun?
A: At least 6 hours daily.
Final Thoughts
Companion planting is like matchmaking for plants—get it right, and your garden thrives! Avoid these 9 troublemakers, and check out my soil prep guide for more tips. Happy gardening! 🌱
