Companion Plants for Arborvitae
A complete companion planting guide for Arborvitae, including what grows well nearby and what to avoid.
Plan a companion bed for Arborvitae
Use the interactive planner to drag Arborvitae and its companions onto a canvas, see spacing footprints, and catch conflicts before you plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you plant Arborvitae in a raised bed with companions?
Yes — raised beds are ideal for companion planting because you control exact spacing and layout. Use the square-foot method to place Arborvitae alongside its best companions within the same bed.
How far apart should I plant Arborvitae and its companions?
Give Arborvitae its full 48" spacing. Plant compact companions like herbs 6–12" away at the bed edge, and taller companions (sunflowers, corn) where they won't shade the main crop. In raised beds, use the square-foot grid method for precise spacing.
Does companion planting actually work for Arborvitae?
Research supports several companion planting mechanisms: aromatic herbs like basil can reduce aphid populations near tomatoes; marigolds release thiophene compounds that deter nematodes; and flowers attract parasitic wasps that control caterpillars. Results vary by garden, but most gardeners see measurable pest reduction within one season.
Want the full Arborvitae growing guide?
Spacing, planting dates by ZIP code, seed saving tips, and more.