How to Plant Tomato and Basil Together

Tomatoes and basil are two delicious and nutritious plants that make great companions in the garden. Intercropping them is a great way to maximize space and improve the overall yield of your garden. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant tomatoes and basil together.

Choose the Right Spot

The first step in planting tomatoes and basil together is to select the right spot. Tomatoes require lots of sunlight, so choose an area in your garden that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Basil, on the other hand, prefers partial shade, so plant it in a spot that gets about 4 hours of sunlight a day.

Prepare the Soil

Having good soil is essential to growing healthy and productive plants. Tomatoes and basil prefer well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Before planting, add plenty of organic matter such as compost, aged manure, or leaf mold to the soil to improve its fertility and water-holding capacity. Mix in a slow-release fertilizer according to the package instructions.

Plant the Seedlings

Once the soil is ready, it's time to plant the seedlings. Dig a hole for each tomato plant that is twice the size of its root ball. Gently remove the seedling from its container and loosen the roots. Place the plant in the hole, then fill the hole with soil, pressing it down firmly around the stem. Space tomato plants about 3 feet apart to allow for good air circulation.

For basil, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball. Gently remove the seedling from its container and loosen the roots. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, pressing it down around the base of the stem. Space basil plants about 1 foot apart.

Consider Companion Plants

Intercropping tomatoes and basil is a great way to deter pests and attract beneficial insects, but there are other plants that can further enhance their productivity. Consider planting marigolds, nasturtiums, or garlic around the perimeter of the bed to repel harmful insects. You might also plant onions, chives, or garlic near the basil to enhance its flavor.

Maintain and Harvest Your Plants

After planting, it's important to maintain your tomato and basil plants properly. Water them deeply once a week, providing about 1-2 inches of water per plant. Mulch the soil with straw or leaves to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid over-watering as tomatoes are susceptible to fungal diseases.

To promote bushy growth and increase yield, pinch back the tips of the basil plants when they are 6 inches tall. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves to improve air circulation and prevent disease. When the tomatoes are ripe, pick them regularly to encourage new fruit production. To harvest basil, pick the leaves once they are large enough to use, but don't remove more than one-third of the plant at a time.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes and basil together is an excellent way to maximize your garden space while enjoying two tasty and nutritious plants. With the right conditions and care, you can have a bountiful harvest of both throughout the growing season. Remember to choose the right spot, prepare the soil, and consider companion plants to create a healthy and productive garden.