How close can I plant basil to tomatoes?

Basil and tomatoes are companion plants that have been grown together for centuries. They both need similar growing conditions, and when planted together, they can help each other thrive. However, it's important to consider how close to plant basil to your tomato plants to avoid any potential problems.

The benefits of planting basil with tomatoes

Tomatoes and basil are a match made in gardening heaven. Not only do they both require similar growing conditions, but they also have a symbiotic relationship. Basil repels pests like mosquitoes and flies while also attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies that help pollinate tomato plants. Additionally, the strong aroma of basil can help mask the scent of the tomato plant from pests like tomato hornworms.

Factors to consider

When planting basil with tomatoes, there are a few factors to take into consideration. Firstly, you should consider the size of your tomato plants. If your tomato plants are small or you're growing determinate varieties, which have a specific growth pattern, you might want to consider planting your basil between the tomatoes. This will ensure that the basil doesn't overshadow the tomato plant. However, if you're growing indeterminate varieties, which can grow up to six feet tall or more, it's safe to plant your basil beside your tomato plants.

Another factor to consider is the spread of your basil plant. Basil can grow quite bushy, so it's important to give the plant enough space to thrive. If you plant basil too close to your tomato plants, it may compete with the tomatoes for resources like sunlight and nutrients.

Recommended distance to plant basil from tomatoes

While there's no hard and fast rule on how close to plant basil to tomatoes, a good rule of thumb is to plant your basil at least 12 inches away from your tomato plants. This will give your basil plant enough space to grow without overcrowding your tomato plants. If you have the space, you can plant your basil even further away, up to two feet or more.

Final thoughts

Planting basil and tomatoes together can be a great way to enjoy fresh, organic produce from your garden. When planting basil with tomatoes, it's important to consider the size of your tomato plants, the spread of your basil plant, and the distance between the two plants. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that both your tomato and basil plants will thrive, and you'll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest!