Don't Plant Tomatoes Next To:

Tomatoes are an incredibly popular garden plant. They are relatively easy to grow and produce juicy, flavorful fruit all summer long. However, not all plants are compatible with tomatoes. Here are some plants that you should avoid planting next to your precious tomato plants for best results:

Absolutely Not: Potatoes

Tomatoes and potatoes may be members of the same plant family, but they are not friends in the garden. Tomatoes are susceptible to potato blight, and planting them next to potatoes can increase their risk of infection. Additionally, potatoes have a tendency to compete heavily for nutrients in the soil, leaving your tomato plants weak and struggling.

Not Ideal: Brassicas

Brassicas include plants like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. While they won't necessarily harm your tomato plants like potatoes will, they do compete for similar soil nutrients. Additionally, brassicas have a tendency to attract certain pests that can also harm tomato plants, such as aphids and cabbage loopers. So if you are looking to grow both brassicas and tomatoes in your garden, it's best to plant them as far apart as possible.

Avoid: Nightshade Family

The nightshade family includes plants like eggplants, peppers, and potatoes (as previously mentioned). While it's tempting to group these plants together in the garden, it's not the best idea. Nightshade plants are susceptible to many of the same diseases and pests, which can quickly spread throughout your garden. Additionally, they have similar nutrient requirements, so planting them together can lead to nutrient depletion and subpar plant growth.

Consider Separating: Corn

Corn is a tall crop that can shade out smaller plants like tomatoes if they are planted too close together. On the other hand, planting corn too close to tomato plants can lead to nutrient competition and stunted growth for both crops. If you do decide to plant these two together, make sure to give them plenty of space and consider using a trellis or support for your tomato plants to prevent them from being overshadowed by corn stalks.

Conclusion

In general, it's best to avoid planting tomatoes next to plants that have similar nutrient requirements or are prone to the same pests and diseases. While crop rotation can help mitigate some of these issues, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your garden. With a little planning and knowledge, you can grow a bountiful garden full of healthy, delicious plants.