The 8 Best Plants to Plant Around Vegetable Garden of 2026

Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a perennial herb that brings a bold, celery-like taste to your kitchen garden. This 1-pack from Survival Garden Seeds offers a straightforward way to grow a plant that can reach 5-6 feet tall, producing green leaves for fresh eating or drying. It's an ideal choice for home gardeners who want a low-maintenance, long-lived herb that adds depth to soups, salads, and stews.

The standout quality of lovage is its flavor: a mix of celery, anise, and cumin that works well in many cuisines. You can use the leaves as an herb, the roots as a vegetable, and the seeds as a spice. This variety matures in about 90 days, giving you a generous harvest throughout the summer. The seeds are open-pollinated and untreated, so you can save them for future seasons.

Each packet comes with detailed instructions for germination and transplanting. The seeds are packed in a sturdy paper envelope that keeps them viable for years if stored in a cool, dry place. The brand is a small American family-owned business that focuses on non-GMO, heirloom varieties. This adds a layer of trust for gardeners who value seed purity.

One potential drawback is the plant's size: it needs space to spread out, so it's not ideal for tiny raised beds or containers. It also requires full sun and consistent watering, which might be a challenge in very hot climates. But if you have room in your vegetable patch or herb garden, lovage is a rewarding perennial that keeps coming back.

Overall, Survival Garden Seeds delivers a reliable lovage seed packet at a fair price. The clear instructions make it accessible for beginners, while the heirloom status appeals to experienced growers. If you're looking for a versatile, flavorful herb that stands tall in the garden, this is a solid pick.

The Live Aromatic and Edible Herb Assortment from TheThreeCompany brings together six popular herb varieties in one convenient pack. Whether you're a first-time gardener or looking to expand your plant family, this assortment includes rosemary, eucalyptus, mint, lemon balm, and other rotating favorites. It's designed for both indoor and outdoor use, making it a flexible choice for windowsills, patios, or garden beds.

What stands out most is the thoughtful curation. Many of these herbs are staples in the kitchen or natural wellness, from rosemary's robust flavor to eucalyptus's refreshing scent. The plants arrive as live, fully rooted starters, which gives you a head start compared to growing from seed. However, real-world performance varies. Positive reviews highlight healthy, vibrant plants that thrive after repotting, while others report that some specimens arrive wilted or damaged. The mint and lavender seem particularly sensitive, so quick care is essential.

Build quality is generally good for shipped plants. The packaging uses rubber bands and boxes to minimize damage, but longer transit times can stress the herbs. On the plus side, the company replaces or refunds plants that don't survive, as seen in some customer updates. Just be prepared to transplant them into larger pots with well-draining soil right away.

The main drawback is inconsistency. The assortment changes weekly, so you might not receive the same mix twice. Additionally, some plants may look smaller than the product photos, which show more mature specimens. If you want a predictable set of specific herbs, this might not be the best fit. But if you enjoy a surprise variety and don't mind a little TLC, the value is solid.

Overall, the Live Aromatic and Edible Herb Assortment offers a genuine start to herb gardening at a reasonable price. It's ideal for casual gardeners, cooking enthusiasts, and anyone who loves the scent of fresh herbs. Just be patient with initial care and order two-day shipping when possible to minimize stress on the plants.

The NatureZ Edge Marigold Seeds Mix delivers an incredible quantity of seeds for the price, making it a top choice for gardeners who want to fill large areas with cheerful, pollinator-friendly blooms. With over 5600 seeds in each packet, you get a blend of Petite French, Dainty Marietta, Sparky French, and other marigold varieties. This mix is perfect for anyone from beginners to seasoned growers looking for a low-cost way to add color to borders, containers, or vegetable gardens.

Standout features include quick germination, with many customers reporting sprouts within three to ten days. The seeds are non-GMO and grown in the USA, which adds to their appeal. Once established, these marigolds attract bees, butterflies, and ladybugs while naturally deterring pests like aphids and mosquitoes. The plants are easy to care for, thriving in full sun with moderate watering, and they handle heat and drought fairly well once rooted.

Real-world performance varies a bit. Most users praise the high germination rate and the abundance of flowers that eventually appear. However, a number of reviewers note that the plants can grow much taller than the advertised 18 inches, sometimes reaching three to four feet before blooming. This can be a surprise if you expected compact, petite plants. Also, flowering may take longer than typical marigolds, especially in cooler regions or if planted late. Patience is key, but the eventual display of bright orange, yellow, and red blooms is often worth the wait.

On the downside, the seed packet does not clearly separate the different varieties, so you get a random mix. Some customers found that the majority of seeds produced tall plants rather than the petite ones they expected. If you need a uniform height for a formal border, this mix might not be ideal. Also, a few users reported that the seeds produced only foliage for many weeks, leading to frustration before flowers finally appeared.

Overall, the NatureZ Edge Marigold Seeds Mix is a solid choice for budget-conscious gardeners who want a massive quantity of seeds with reliable germination. It works well for informal, natural-looking displays and companion planting. Just be prepared for variable plant heights and a longer wait for blooms. If you can accept that, you will be rewarded with a stunning, pollinator-friendly garden that keeps on giving, season after season.

The Seed Needs Mint Seeds Variety Pack brings together four beloved mint varieties in one convenient set: Spearmint, Peppermint, Lemon Mint, and Pennyroyal. With over 3,500 seeds total, this pack is designed for gardeners who want to explore different flavors and uses, from teas and desserts to attracting beneficial insects. The seeds are non-GMO, untreated, and primarily heirloom, so you can expect plants that stay true to their parent stock year after year.

Germination has been a strong point for most users, with many reporting sprouts within two weeks when following the included instructions. The packets provide clear guidance on sowing depth, sunlight (full sun), and moisture (moderate watering). Peppermint and Spearmint grow to about 2 feet tall, while Lemon Mint can reach 1-3 feet with lovely lavender blooms. Pennyroyal stays low at 12 inches, making it a good ground cover option, though its toxicity means it should be kept away from edible gardens and pets.

Build quality of the packaging is thoughtful. Each packet is water-resistant and tear-resistant, featuring a colorful illustration on the front and detailed sowing information on the back. A QR code allows for quick reordering. The seeds are stored in a climate-controlled facility to preserve freshness, and the company promises no GMOs or chemical treatments like neonicotinoids. Seed Needs also has a charitable component, donating to organizations and sponsoring over 100 children worldwide.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. A small number of customers reported receiving seeds past their use-by date, leading to low or no germination. Pennyroyal's toxicity is a serious concern and not always clearly highlighted on the packaging. Additionally, mint is known for aggressive spreading; without containment like pots or underground barriers, these plants can take over a garden bed. Some tropical climate users found the plants didn't last long, possibly due to heat or humidity.

Overall, the Seed Needs Mint Seeds Variety Pack offers excellent value for the variety and quantity provided. It's especially well-suited for home gardeners who want to experiment with different mints for culinary and ornamental purposes. If you're careful about planting Pennyroyal separately and check the seed dates upon arrival, this pack can provide a rewarding and fragrant addition to your garden.

The Sereniseed Certified Organic Herb Seeds 10-Pack is a straightforward, reliable choice for anyone looking to start a kitchen herb garden. With over 7,000 reviews and a solid 4.4-star rating, this pack covers ten of the most popular culinary herbs: basil, cilantro, oregano, thyme, parsley, lavender, chives, sage, dill, and even Thai basil. All seeds are USDA certified organic by Oregon Tilth, non-GMO, and heirloom – meaning they're open-pollinated and can be saved for future planting.

What really sets this pack apart is the attention to quality. Sereniseed stores their bulk seeds in a temperature- and humidity-controlled walk-in cooler, which helps maintain high germination rates. The company also tests each batch for purity and germination before packing, and they back it up with a guarantee: if you have issues, they'll make it right. This is a big confidence booster for first-time gardeners or anyone who's had bad luck with seeds before.

In real-world use, most users report strong results. Many reviewers mention 90-95% germination rates with common herbs like basil, cilantro, dill, and chives. The included seed-starting video and printed tips on each packet make it easy to get started, whether you're planting in soil, a hydroponic setup, or directly in a garden bed. That said, a few users note that some herbs – particularly lavender – can be more finicky and may not germinate as reliably. This is not unusual for lavender seeds, but it's worth knowing if you're counting on that variety.

Overall, this is a well-priced, trustworthy kit for building a home herb garden. It's ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a curated selection of organic, non-GMO seeds without having to hunt down individual packets. The customer service is responsive, the seeds are fresh, and the variety covers all the essentials for cooking. Just don't expect every single seed to sprout – especially with lavender – but the majority will, and the company stands behind their product.

Product: Sereniseed Certified Organic Herb Seeds (10-Pack)

Varieties: Thyme, Italian Oregano, Caribe Cilantro, Giant Italian Parsley, English Lavender, Genovese Basil, Broad Leaf Sage, Bouquet Dill, Common Chives, Thai Basil

Certification: USDA Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth

Non-GMO: Yes, all varieties are open-pollinated, non-GMO, and heirloom

Sunlight: Full sun

Hardiness Zones: 2 through 9

Planting: Suitable for indoor and outdoor – spring to summer

Care: Do not overwater; trim plants back every 3 years to promote growth

Dimensions: 10 x 7 x 0.7 inches, weight 1.13 ounces

This pack is best for home gardeners who want a simple, curated selection of organic culinary herbs. It's a great gift for beginners or for anyone who wants to start an indoor herb garden on a windowsill or under grow lights. If you're looking for a single variety or larger quantities for a big garden, you might want to buy individual packets instead. For best results, follow the instructions on the back of each packet – especially regarding soaking and light exposure. The seeds are fresh and stored properly, so they should sprout well if you give them the right conditions.

The Pest Defense 6 Pack from SurvivalGardenSeeds is a thoughtfully curated set of heirloom seeds designed to help you manage garden pests naturally. It includes catnip, marigold, hyssop, basil, lavender, and petunia - six plants known for their pest-repelling and pollinator-attracting properties. This pack is perfect for organic gardeners, beginners, or anyone looking to reduce chemical use in their outdoor or indoor spaces.

What sets this collection apart is the careful selection of varieties that work together. Catnip repels mosquitoes and aphids, marigold deters cabbage moths and hornworms, and lavender keeps flies and ticks at bay. Meanwhile, basil and petunia add beauty and fragrance while supporting bees and butterflies. The seeds are heirloom, non-GMO, and open-pollinated, which means you can save seeds from your harvest for future planting - a big plus for sustainability-minded growers.

In terms of quality, SurvivalGardenSeeds is a family-owned US business that tests each batch for germination. The seed packets come with clear instructions, making it easy to start indoors or direct sow. The expected bloom period runs from spring to fall, giving you months of pest protection and visual appeal. The plants are low maintenance and thrive in full sun with moderate watering, suitable for USDA zones 4-9.

One honest drawback is that not every seed type germinates at the same speed. Lavender, for instance, can be slow and may need cold stratification for best results. Also, while these plants help deter pests, they are not a silver bullet - severe infestations may still require additional measures. But for most home gardens, this mix provides a solid, chemical-free foundation.

Overall, the Pest Defense 6 Pack is a smart investment for anyone wanting to grow a more resilient garden. It combines practicality with beauty, and the heirloom quality adds long-term value. If you're looking for an easy, natural way to protect your plants while supporting pollinators, this seed collection is an excellent choice.

Indoor/Outdoor Usage: Indoor, Outdoor

Brand: SURVIVAL GARDEN SEEDS

Material Feature: GMO Free, Heirloom

Color: Multicolor

Special Feature: Attracts Pollinators, Fragrant, High Germination Rate, Low Maintenance, Pest Resistant

Expected Blooming Period: Spring to Fall

Sunlight Exposure: Full Sun

Unit Count: 6.0 Count

Expected Planting Period: Spring to Summer

USDA Hardiness Zone: 4-9

Expected Plant Height: 18 Inches

Soil Type: Loam Soil

Moisture Needs: Moderate Watering

Number of Pieces: 6

Seed Treatment Method: Untreated

Product Dimensions: 8 x 6 x 0.24 inches

Item Weight: 0.704 ounces

Manufacturer: JD Hardware LLC

ASIN: B0F3P619T2

The HOME GROWN Marigold Petite seed pack is a straightforward choice for gardeners who want reliable, pollinator-friendly blooms without the fuss. This pack contains 600 heirloom, non-GMO seeds that produce compact marigold plants reaching about 18 inches tall. It's designed for both beginners and experienced growers looking for a low-maintenance flower that delivers color from summer through fall.

What stands out here is the seed count and the included online grow guide. With 600 seeds, you get plenty of material for borders, containers, or mass plantings. The heirloom status means you can save seeds for next season, and the non-GMO label appeals to those avoiding genetically modified plants. The grow guide covers everything from sowing to harvest, which is especially helpful if you're new to starting flowers from seed.

The seeds themselves come from a US-based company that emphasizes quality and high germination rates. While we haven't tested these specific seeds, the brand's reputation and the detailed specifications suggest they should perform well in full sun with loamy soil and moderate watering. The compact size makes them versatile, and their ability to attract pollinators is a nice bonus for eco-conscious gardeners.

On the downside, this pack offers only one variety (Marigold Petite), so if you're looking for a mix of colors or types, you'll need to buy additional packs. Also, there are no customer reviews yet, so real-world feedback is limited. But given the straightforward nature of marigolds and the clear instructions, most gardeners should have a positive experience.

Overall, the HOME GROWN Marigold Petite seed pack is a solid value for anyone wanting to add cheerful, easy-care flowers to their garden. The high seed count, heirloom quality, and supportive grow guide make it a reliable pick, especially for first-time seed starters. Just be prepared to provide full sun and well-draining soil, and you'll likely enjoy a season of bright blooms.

Companion Planting for Beginners by Brian Lowell is more than just a list of which plants go together. It's a complete, beginner-friendly roadmap to creating a chemical-free vegetable garden that actually works. Lowell, the creator of the popular Next Level Gardening YouTube channel, packs this 176-page book with practical advice, beautiful photography, and a layout that makes it easy to find exactly what you need. Whether you're planting your first tomato or have been gardening for years, this book offers a fresh, effective approach to growing food naturally.

The standout feature is the vegetable reference in Chapter 9. Each plant gets its own page with consistent sections on how to start it, how to keep it growing, and its best companion plants. A color-coded graphic in the corner makes planning your garden beds quick and visual. Beyond companions, the book covers soil health, watering, pest identification, and disease management. Real-world feedback from readers confirms that the bed layout sketches are especially helpful for bringing all the information together into a practical plan.

The book's design is a major plus. Thick, glossy pages and color photos on nearly every spread make it a pleasure to flip through. The writing style is conversational and direct, as if Lowell is talking to you in person. Some readers have noted that the large, close-up photos of insects can be startling, but that's a minor quibble. The only real drawback is that some experienced gardeners might wish for more depth on certain topics, though the book never claims to be an exhaustive encyclopedia.

Overall, Companion Planting for Beginners delivers exactly what it promises: a clear, actionable guide to pairing plants for a healthier, more productive garden. It's earned its stellar reputation with readers who appreciate its blend of science and simplicity. If you want to grow more food with fewer chemicals and less guesswork, this book is a smart investment.