Introduction

Companion planting is a popular gardening technique that involves planting certain herbs and plants together to improve growth and repel pests. Tomatoes are an important crop in many gardens, and there are several herbs that can be planted alongside them to produce healthier plants and fewer pests. But, how far apart can you plant these companion herbs with tomatoes? In this article, we will explore the best herbs to plant with tomatoes and the optimal spacing for each herb.

Herbs that can be planted with tomatoes

Several herbs are compatible with tomatoes and can be planted together for optimal growth. These herbs include basil, marigold, parsley, chives, and borage.

Basil: Basil is one of the most popular herbs to plant alongside tomatoes. It repels pests like mosquitoes and flies, and its strong scent masks the scent of tomatoes, making it harder for pests to locate them. Basil can be planted 10-12 inches away from the tomato plant.

Marigold: Marigold is a natural insect repellent and can be planted next to tomato plants to keep pests away. It is also known to attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. Marigold can be planted 12-18 inches away from the tomato plant.

Parsley: Parsley is a great companion plant for tomatoes as it attracts hoverflies, which eat aphids and other pests. It can be planted 6-12 inches away from the tomato plant.

Chives: Chives repel aphids and attract beneficial insects like bees and wasps. They can be planted 4-6 inches away from the tomato plant.

Borage: Borage is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes as it repels tomato hornworms and attracts bees for pollination. It can be planted 12-24 inches away from the tomato plant.

The optimal spacing for companion herbs

The optimal spacing for planting companion herbs with tomatoes varies between different herbs. Generally speaking, herbs should be planted far enough away from the tomato plant so that they do not compete for nutrients or interfere with the growth of the tomato plant.

As a general rule, herbs should be planted at least 4-6 inches away from the tomato plant. Some herbs like chives can be planted closer, while others like marigold and borage should be planted further away.

Basil: Basil should be planted 10-12 inches away from the tomato plant.

Marigold: Marigold should be planted 12-18 inches away from the tomato plant.

Parsley: Parsley should be planted 6-12 inches away from the tomato plant.

Chives: Chives should be planted 4-6 inches away from the tomato plant.

Borage: Borage should be planted 12-24 inches away from the tomato plant.

Conclusion

Companion planting can be a great way to improve the growth and health of tomato plants while reducing the number of pests that attack them. By planting compatible herbs next to tomatoes, gardeners can create a natural ecosystem that benefits both plants and insects. When planting companion herbs with tomatoes, it is important to consider the optimal spacing for each herb to ensure that they do not compete for nutrients or interfere with the growth of the tomato plant.