Introduction

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable in many gardens around the world. They are not only easy to grow but also nutritious and delicious. However, planting tomatoes alone is not enough to ensure a bountiful harvest. It is also essential to consider what other plants are best to plant next to tomatoes to maximize their growth and yield.

Companion plants for tomatoes

One of the best plants to plant next to tomatoes is basil. Basil is not only a great culinary herb but also helps to repel pests that can attack tomatoes, such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. The strong fragrance of basil also attracts beneficial insects, such as bees and hoverflies, which are important pollinators for tomatoes.

Another great companion plant for tomatoes is marigolds. Marigolds have a strong scent that repels many pests that can harm tomatoes, such as root-knot nematodes and flea beetles. They also attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, which can help to control aphids and other harmful insects.

Peppers are also great plants to grow beside tomatoes. Apart from being great for cooking, peppers contain capsaicin, which deter pests, such as aphids, spider mites, and tomato hornworms. Additionally, peppers attract predatory insects, such as lacewings and ladybugs, which can help to control pests that can harm tomatoes.

Plants to avoid planting next to tomatoes

While some plants make great companions for tomatoes, there are also plants that should be avoided. One such plant is the potato. Tomatoes and potatoes are both members of the nightshade family, and planting them together can increase the risk of disease, such as blight, which can affect both plants.

Other plants to avoid planting next to tomatoes include fennel, dill, and brassicas, such as cabbage and broccoli. These plants can attract pests such as aphids and whiteflies, which can harm tomatoes. Planting them near tomatoes can also increase the risk of disease transmission.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting companion plants beside tomatoes can be a great way to increase yield and reduce pests and diseases. Basil, marigolds, and peppers are great plants to grow along with tomatoes, while potatoes, fennel, dill, and brassicas are best avoided. By selecting the right companion plants to grow next to tomatoes, gardeners can ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest.