What Not to Plant Next to Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable in many home gardens, but selecting the wrong companion plants can negatively impact their growth and overall health. While there are many plants that can be beneficial to tomatoes, there are also several that should be avoided. Here are some of the plants that you should not plant next to tomatoes.

Black Walnuts

Black Walnut trees produce a chemical called juglone, which can be toxic to many plants, including tomatoes. If you have a Black Walnut tree in your garden, it is best to plant your tomatoes far away from it to avoid any negative effects. Tomatoes planted within 50 feet of a Black Walnut tree may experience stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and reduced fruit production.

Potatoes

Tomatoes and potatoes are members of the same plant family and therefore share many of the same pests and diseases. Planting them next to each other can increase the likelihood of these problems, including blight and nematodes. It is best to rotate planting locations each year to prevent the buildup of pests and diseases.

Fennel

Fennel is known for its strong aroma and can adversely affect the flavor of tomatoes growing nearby. Additionally, fennel attracts tomato hornworms, which can be a serious pest for tomatoes. To avoid these problems, it is best to keep fennel away from your tomato plants.

Conclusion

When planning your garden, it is important to choose companion plants carefully to ensure healthy growth and high yields. While there are many plants that can benefit tomato plants, there are some that should be avoided. Black Walnuts, potatoes, and fennel are just a few of the plants that can negatively impact the growth of tomatoes. By keeping these plants away from your tomato plants, you can maximize your harvest and enjoy healthy, delicious tomatoes throughout the growing season.