What Can I Plant with Tomatoes to Keep Bugs Away?

Tomatoes are a popular and nutritious vegetable to grow in our gardens. However, keeping bugs away from these plants can be a challenge. One way to keep pests at bay is to interplant your tomato plants with companion plants that can naturally deter bugs. In this post, we'll explore some of the best companion plants to plant with tomatoes to keep bugs away.

Marigold

Marigold is a bright and colorful flower that can help to repel insects away from your tomato plants. It contains a compound called pyrethrum, which is a natural insecticide that can help to kill off harmful pests. Marigolds can also improve the overall health of your garden soil by repelling harmful nematodes away from the roots of your tomato plants.

Basil

Basil is a great companion plant to grow with your tomatoes as it can help to repel various types of insects. It contains compounds like eugenol, citronellol, and linalool that can deter bugs away from your tomato plants. Additionally, basil can improve the flavor of your tomatoes by enhancing their natural sweetness and aroma.

Nasturtium

Nasturtium is another excellent companion plant to grow alongside your tomatoes, especially if you're dealing with aphids. These flowers have a unique compound called mustard oil that can repel aphids and other harmful pests away from your garden. Nasturtiums can also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which can help to keep other harmful bugs under control.

Mint

Mint is a fragrant herb that can help to repel various types of pests away from your tomato plants. It contains a compound called menthol, which has a strong scent that can mask the scent of your tomatoes from harmful pests like thrips, aphids, and whiteflies. Additionally, mint is easy to grow and can be harvested and used in a variety of flavorful recipes.

Garlic

Garlic is a powerful natural insecticide that can help to keep various types of bugs at bay. When planted alongside your tomato plants, it can help to repel harmful pests like spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Additionally, garlic can improve the flavor of your tomatoes and provide many health benefits when consumed in your diet.

In Conclusion

Growing companion plants alongside your tomatoes can be an effective way to naturally deter harmful insects and improve the overall health of your garden. By planting marigold, basil, nasturtium, mint, and garlic alongside your tomato plants, you can create a diverse and thriving ecosystem that can help to keep pests under control.

Remember, it's essential to choose the right companion plants based on the specific pests you're dealing with in your garden. With the right combination of companion plants, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of healthy and delicious tomatoes without having to worry about pesky bugs ruining your garden.