How Close Should I Plant Marigolds to Tomatoes?

If you are an avid gardener, you know that planting marigolds next to your tomatoes can help keep pests and disease away from your plants. Marigolds are known to repel nematodes, a type of soil-borne pest that can damage tomato plants, and their strong scent can also deter other pests like aphids and whiteflies.

But the question remains, how close should you plant marigolds to your tomatoes to reap their benefits?

Spacing Between Marigolds and Tomatoes

The ideal spacing between marigolds and tomatoes depends on the size of your garden and the number of plants you are growing. A good rule of thumb is to plant marigolds every few feet along the row of tomatoes, or to interplant them in a checkerboard pattern throughout the garden.

If you are planting tomatoes in containers, consider placing a marigold plant in the same pot. This will not only help keep pests away, but it also adds a pop of color to your container garden.

Types of Marigolds to Plant with Tomatoes

When planting marigolds next to tomatoes, it is important to choose the right variety. French marigolds are the most commonly used type of marigold for companion planting with tomatoes. They have a strong scent and are known to repel pests like nematodes and whiteflies.

Another type of marigold that is good to plant with tomatoes is the signet marigold. They have small, edible flowers and can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

Additional Tips for Companion Planting Marigolds and Tomatoes

Keep in mind that while marigolds are excellent companion plants for tomatoes, they won't work if you already have an infestation of pests or disease in your garden. These plants are preventative, not curative.

Also, It is important to note that marigolds can attract spider mites, so be sure to keep an eye out for any signs of spider mite damage on your tomato plants.

When planting marigolds and tomatoes together, make sure they both have enough room to grow. Tomatoes require a lot of space, so be sure not to overcrowd them with marigolds.

In Conclusion

Planting marigolds with tomatoes is an effective way to keep pests and disease away from your garden. The ideal spacing between marigolds and tomatoes is every few feet along the row of tomatoes or in a checkerboard pattern throughout the garden. French and signet marigolds are the best varieties to plant with tomatoes, but be aware that marigolds won't work if an infestation of pests or disease is already present in your garden. Keep an eye out for spider mites when planting these two plants together and make sure they both have enough space to grow.