What not to plant with tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular home garden crop due to their versatility and delicious flavor. However, planting the wrong crops alongside tomatoes can result in decreased yields, pest infestations, and even disease. Therefore, it is important to know what not to plant with tomatoes in your garden. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Avoid planting members of the nightshade family

Tomatoes are a member of the nightshade family, which includes other crops such as eggplants, peppers, and potatoes. Planting these crops together can result in problems such as nutrient competition and pest and disease transmission. Additionally, some of these plants may attract the same pests as tomatoes, such as the tomato hornworm. Therefore, it is important to rotate nightshade crops in your garden and plant them in separate areas or seasons.

Don鈥檛 plant brassicas near tomatoes

Another group of vegetables to avoid planting with tomatoes is the brassica family, which includes crops such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and kale. This is because brassicas release chemicals into the soil that can negatively affect tomato growth and yield. Additionally, both brassicas and tomatoes are susceptible to similar pests such as aphids, and planting them together can increase the likelihood of infestations. Therefore, it is best to rotate these crops and plant them in separate garden areas or seasons.

Avoid planting fennel near tomatoes

While fennel may be a flavorful addition to your garden, it should not be planted near tomatoes. Fennel releases a chemical that can stunt the growth of tomatoes and even cause them to wilt. Additionally, fennel and tomatoes have similar pest problems, such as aphids and whiteflies. Planting them together can increase the likelihood of infestations and decrease overall growth and yield. Therefore, it is best to plant fennel in a separate area of your garden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing what not to plant with tomatoes is essential to maintaining a healthy and productive garden. Avoid planting members of the nightshade and brassica families, as well as fennel, near tomatoes to reduce the risk of nutrient competition, pest infestations, and disease. By following these guidelines and practicing crop rotation, you can ensure a successful tomato harvest year after year.