What Can I Companion Plant with Tomatoes?

If you are an avid gardener, you must know the importance of companion planting. Companion planting is a gardening technique where two or more plant species are grown together to complement each other. Different plants have different nutrient requirements and growth habits, and by planting them together, they can provide mutual benefits such as pest control and improved soil fertility. When it comes to tomatoes, there are several plants that can be grown alongside them to enhance their growth and yield. In this article, we will discuss some of the plants that can be used as companion plants for tomatoes.

Basil

Basil is one of the best companion plants for tomatoes, and for a good reason. Not only does it repel pests, but it also improves the flavor of tomatoes. Basil produces a strong aroma that deters insects, especially tomato hornworms. Additionally, basil extracts certain compounds from the soil that are beneficial to tomatoes, improving their flavor and aroma. Growing basil alongside tomatoes is effortless since they have similar growing requirements.

Marigold

Marigolds are another excellent companion plant for tomatoes. Like basil, marigolds repel pests that commonly attack tomatoes, such as whiteflies, nematodes, and aphids. Marigolds also help to aerate the soil, improving its texture and nutrient content. They are also known to produce a chemical that suppresses root-knot nematodes, a common tomato pest. Marigolds are easy to grow, and they come in different colors that add a pop of color to your vegetable garden!

Parsley

Parsley is another herb that can be grown alongside tomatoes. Its strong aroma deters pests, while its root system helps to loosen up the soil, making it more accessible for tomato roots to penetrate it more deeply. Parsley is also rich in nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for tomato growth. Growing parsley with tomatoes is an excellent way to ensure that your plants receive the necessary nutrients for maximum yield.

Nasturtium

Nasturtiums are renowned for their bright, vibrant flowers that bloom in a range of colors. However, they are also useful as companion plants for tomatoes. Nasturtiums act as a trap crop, drawing aphids and other pests away from tomatoes. They also repel whiteflies, squash bugs, and cucumber beetles. Additionally, nasturtiums attract predatory insects like ladybugs, which feed on pests. Growing nasturtiums with tomatoes provides an aesthetically pleasing and practical solution to pest control.

Borage

Borage is another plant that can be grown alongside tomatoes. It attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which pollinate tomatoes, leading to better yield. Borage also assists in soil improvement, bringing potassium and other micronutrients to the surface, where tomatoes can access them. The leaves of borage contain compounds that deter tomato hornworms and other pests. Growing borage with your tomato plants not only improves their growth but also adds a dash of blue to your garden!

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, companion planting is a great way to maximize your tomato yield while ensuring that your plants remain healthy and pest-free. Basil, marigold, parsley, nasturtium, and borage are just some of the many plants that can be grown alongside tomatoes to improve their growth, flavor, and yield. Keep in mind that companion planting is not an exact science, and it may not work for everyone. However, experimenting with different companion plants is a fun and rewarding gardening activity that can result in healthier plants and better-tasting tomatoes!