How to Plant Basil with Tomatoes

One of the best ways to enhance your tomato garden and add some extra flavor to your meals is by planting basil alongside your tomatoes. Not only will the flavors complement each other nicely, but basil is also known for repelling pests that commonly attack tomato plants. Here's how to plant basil with tomatoes:

Choose the Right Location

Start by choosing a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Tomatoes and basil thrive in warm temperatures, so make sure the spot you choose is also protected from strong winds that can damage both plants. Additionally, ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in nutrients.

Prepare the Soil

Test the soil in your selected location to determine its pH level. Tomatoes and basil both prefer slightly acidic soil, the ideal pH range being 6.0 to 6.8. If your soil's pH is too low, you can raise it by adding lime or wood ash. If the pH is too high, you can lower it by adding sulfur. Mix compost or other organic matter into the soil to improve its fertility.

Plant Your Tomatoes

Plant your tomato seedlings or seeds first. Make sure to space them about 18 to 36 inches apart, depending on the variety. If you're planting multiple tomato plants, arrange them in rows or a grid pattern to maximize the space in your garden. Dig a hole that is slightly deeper and wider than the plant's root ball and place the plant in the hole. Gently backfill the soil, firming it around the base of the plant.

Plant Your Basil

Once your tomatoes are in the ground, plant your basil beside them. Be sure to plant the basil far enough away from the tomato plants to prevent damage to their roots. Space the basil plants about 6 to 18 inches apart from each other, depending on the variety. Dig a hole for each basil plant and place it in the soil, being careful not to bury it too deep. The top of the soil around the basil should be level with the soil surface.

Maintain Your Garden

Make sure to water your tomato and basil plants regularly, ensuring the soil stays moist but not saturated. Watering in the morning or evening is preferred, as watering during the heat of the day can result in excess evaporation. You should also fertilize your plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer to ensure they have all the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.

Harvest Your Crops

Once your tomato and basil plants start producing fruit, make sure to harvest them regularly. Tomatoes that are left on the vine for too long can become overripe and develop an unpleasant texture and flavor. Basil should also be harvested regularly, as it can quickly produce more leaves than you need. To harvest basil, pinch off the leaves from the stem just above a pair of leaves. This will encourage the plant to produce more foliage.

By following these steps, you can create a thriving garden filled with delicious tomatoes and fragrant basil. Not only will your dinner table benefit from these homegrown favorites, but your garden will also be an oasis of fresh smells and vibrant colors. Happy planting!