What Are Companion Plants to Tomatoes?

Tomatoes are a popular garden crop due to their versatility and delicious flavor. However, like any other plant, tomatoes have specific requirements and pests that can hinder their growth. One way to ensure a healthy and robust tomato crop is to incorporate companion plants into your garden. Companion plants are species that grow well alongside tomatoes and can provide benefits such as pest control, soil improvement, and nutrient uptake.

The Benefits of Companion Plants for Tomatoes

Incorporating companion plants into your tomato garden comes with a variety of benefits. Firstly, companion plants can provide natural pest control. For example, planting basil next to tomatoes can repel pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites.

Companion plants can also improve soil quality. Legumes such as beans, peas, and clover are nitrogen-fixing plants, meaning they absorb nitrogen from the air and deposit it in the soil. This process can improve soil fertility and provide the tomatoes with the necessary nutrients for growth.

Additionally, companion plants can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This can aid in pollination and increase the yield of your tomato crop.

The Best Companion Plants for Tomatoes

There are several companion plants that pair well with tomatoes, including:

Basil: repels pests and improves tomato flavor

Marigolds: deter nematodes and attract beneficial insects

Nasturtiums: repel aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs

Borage: attracts pollinators and repels tomato hornworms

Garlic: repels pests and improves tomato flavor

Calendula: attract beneficial insects and improve soil quality

Chives: repel pests and attract beneficial insects

Companion Planting Tips for Tomatoes

When incorporating companion plants into your tomato garden, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

Plant companion plants in close proximity to your tomatoes for maximum benefits

Rotate your companion plants each year to prevent soil-borne diseases

Avoid planting certain plants together, such as tomatoes and brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, etc.)

Consider using herbs as companion plants to deter pests and improve tomato flavor

In Conclusion

Incorporating companion plants into your tomato garden can provide a range of benefits, including natural pest control, soil improvement, and increased pollination. By selecting the right companion plants and following a few tips, you can ensure a healthy and robust tomato crop.