Introduction

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables grown in home gardens. They are easy to grow, produce a large yield, and taste delicious. However, not all plants make great companions for tomatoes. In this article, we will discuss what plants you should avoid planting with tomatoes.

Why Companion Planting Matters

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves planting different crops together to maximize their growth and productivity. Plants benefit each other in a variety of ways, including pest control, nutrient absorption, and soil enrichment. Companion planting can help your garden flourish, but it's important to choose the right plants to pair with your tomatoes.

What Not to Plant with Tomatoes

While there are many plants that make great companions for tomatoes, there are a few that should be avoided. Here are some of the plants you should steer clear of:

1. Brassicas

Brassicas, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, are not good companions for tomatoes. They compete for the same nutrients in the soil, and can also attract the same pests, such as aphids and whiteflies.

2. Nightshades

Tomatoes are part of the nightshade family, which includes plants like peppers, eggplants, and potatoes. While these plants may look great together in a garden, they can actually attract the same pests and diseases, such as tomato hornworms and verticillium wilt.

3. Fennel

Fennel is a beautiful plant with a unique flavor, but it can be harmful to tomatoes. Fennel emits a chemical that can stunt the growth of tomato plants, and can attract unwanted pests like aphids.

4. Corn

While corn may seem like a harmless addition to a vegetable garden, it is not a good companion for tomatoes. Corn requires a lot of nitrogen to grow, which can leave the soil depleted and stunt the growth of tomatoes.

Plants That Make Great Companions for Tomatoes

While there are some plants that should be avoided when planting with tomatoes, there are also many plants that make great companions. Here are a few examples:

1. Basil

Basil is a wonderful companion for tomatoes. Not only does it repel pests like flies and mosquitoes, but it also improves the flavor of tomatoes when planted nearby.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another great companion for tomatoes. They repel pests like nematodes and aphids, and also add a beautiful pop of color to your garden.

3. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a beautiful and useful addition to any garden. They attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which can help control pests like aphids and spider mites.

4. Carrots

Carrots are a great companion for tomatoes because they help to break up compacted soil, which can improve drainage and aeration. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

Conclusion

Companion planting can be a great way to improve the health and productivity of your vegetable garden. While there are some plants that should be avoided when planting with tomatoes, there are also many plants that make great companions. By carefully selecting the plants you pair with your tomatoes, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden that produces an abundant harvest.