Should You Plant Basil with Tomatoes

Tomatoes and basil are two great food ingredients that go together like peanut butter and jelly. However, growing them side by side in your garden is not just for culinary purposes but has a lot of benefits as well. In this article, we will explore why you should plant basil with tomatoes in your garden, and some tips to ensure a bountiful harvest.

Companionship in the Garden

When you plant basil near tomatoes, it's more than just having them grow next to each other. These two plants have a symbiotic relationship that benefits each other. Tomatoes are known to repel pests like whiteflies and aphids, while basil acts as a natural insect repellent, keeping harmful bugs away from both plants

Furthermore, basil also attracts pollinators like bees to your garden, which helps to pollinate the tomato flowers, leading to a more abundant tomato harvest. This companionship reminds us that planting a diverse range of plants in our gardens is not only good for the soil but also for the plants we are growing.

The Benefits of Growing Basil with Tomatoes

Aside from the companion benefits, there are a few other reasons why basil and tomatoes are an excellent choice to grow together. Firstly, they require similar soil and watering needs, making them easy to manage side by side. Growing the two together also saves space in your garden as they both thrive with full sun exposure and warm temperatures.

Another advantage of growing basil and tomatoes together is the taste. When harvested and eaten together, they create a delicious and savory flavor. The basil adds a hint of sweetness and a spicy aroma to the tomatoes, making them perfect for salads, pasta, and sauces.

Tips for Growing Basil and Tomatoes Together

Now that you understand the benefits of growing basil and tomatoes together, here are some tips to help you maximize your yield:

1. Start tomato seedlings earlier: Tomatoes take longer to grow than basil, so start tomato seedlings at least two weeks before the basil. This will ensure that the tomatoes are more developed when they're planted alongside the basil.

2. Water both plants regularly: Both basil and tomatoes require consistent watering, particularly during hot weather. Be sure to water the soil and avoid waterlogging the plants; otherwise, it can lead to root rot.

3. Prune regularly: When growing basil with tomatoes, it's essential to prune them regularly. Pinch the upper leaves of the basil and the suckers of the tomato plant to promote good airflow and prevent overcrowding.

4. Plant in a sunny spot: Both basil and tomatoes require full sun exposure, so pick a place in your garden that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.

Conclusion

Planting basil with tomatoes is not just for the kitchen, but it also has a lot of benefits in the garden as well. When you grow these two plants side by side, you'll have a natural insect repellent, attract pollinators, and save space in your garden. Plus, the taste when harvested together is heavenly. So if you're looking for a companion plant for your tomatoes, choose basil, and you won't regret it.