Companion Planting: What Can I Plant Next to Tomatoes?

Tomatoes are a popular crop for home gardeners all over the world. They are relatively easy to grow and provide a bountiful harvest. However, they can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Companion planting is an age-old gardening practice where different plants are grown together to benefit each other. In this article, we will explore which plants are the best companions for tomatoes.

1. Basil

Basil is a great companion plant for tomatoes. It not only repels harmful insects like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, but it also enhances the flavor of tomatoes. Basil contains essential oils that are released into the air and absorbed by the tomato plants, giving them a stronger and more flavorful taste.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another plant that is known for its pest-repelling properties. They emit a strong odor that is unappealing to many insects, including nematodes, aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. By planting marigolds next to your tomato plants, you can reduce the number of harmful insects in your garden.

3. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a great companion plant for tomatoes because they attract a variety of insects that are beneficial to the garden. They attract hoverflies, which are predators of aphids and other harmful insects. They also attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the production of fruits and vegetables.

4. Garlic

Garlic is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes because it repels a wide variety of pests, including spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help prevent soil-borne diseases like damping-off and clubroot.

5. Carrots

Carrots are a great companion plant for tomatoes because they improve soil quality. They are a root vegetable, which means they dig deep into the soil and loosen it up. This makes it easier for water and air to penetrate the soil and reach the roots of both the tomato plants and the carrots. Additionally, carrots are a low-growing plant, which means they won't cast shade on the tomato plants.

6. Peppers

Peppers are a good companion plant for tomatoes because they repel spider mites, aphids, and other harmful insects. They also like similar growing conditions and have similar nutrient requirements, so they can be grown together without either plant suffering. However, if you planted hot peppers next to your tomato plants, it could affect the flavor of the tomatoes.

Conclusion

Companion planting is an excellent way to increase the health and yield of your tomato plants. By planting basil, marigolds, nasturtiums, garlic, carrots, or peppers next to your tomatoes, you can repel harmful insects, improve soil quality, and enhance the flavor of your tomatoes. Try experimenting with different combinations of plants to see what works best for your garden.