Introduction

Tomatoes are a vegetable that many people love to grow in their gardens. They are easy to care for, produce plentiful yields, and have a versatile cooking use. However, many gardeners wonder what crops can be planted alongside tomatoes for successful companion planting. This article will give you some ideas on what you can plant with tomatoes to enhance their growth and keep pests at bay.

Companion Plants for Tomatoes

Companion planting is the practice of planting different crops in close proximity to one another to benefit each other in some way. When it comes to tomatoes, there are a number of companion plants that work well alongside them. Some of the best options include:

Basil - this herb repels garden pests such as flies and mosquitoes while also improving the flavor of tomatoes

Garlic - another deterrent for pests such as aphids and spider mites, and can also help prevent fungal diseases

Marigolds - the pungent odor of these flowers helps repel pests while adding a splash of color to your garden

Nasturtiums - these flowers act as a trap crop, attracting pests away from the tomatoes

Peppers - both sweet and hot varieties of pepper can help repel pests from tomatoes

Plants to Avoid Planting with Tomatoes

While there are many great companion plants for tomatoes, there are also some crops that you should avoid planting alongside them. Some of these include:

Brassicas - such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower, can attract pests like aphids and also compete with tomatoes for nutrients

Fennel - can stunt the growth of tomatoes

Potatoes - both potatoes and tomatoes belong to the nightshade family and can be susceptible to similar diseases and pests

Walnuts - the roots of walnut trees release a substance called juglone, which can be toxic to tomatoes

Tips for Successful Companion Planting with Tomatoes

If you want to try companion planting with your tomatoes, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success:

Plant the companion plants close to the tomato plant, but not close enough to shade it

Rotate your crops annually to prevent soil-borne diseases from building up and affecting your tomatoes

Avoid planting too many companion plants alongside your tomatoes, as this can lead to competition for resources

Consider using raised beds or containers to separate different companion plants and prevent them from becoming invasive

Conclusion

Planting companion crops alongside your tomatoes can be a great way to improve their growth and productivity. By choosing the right companion plants and using proper planting techniques, you can create a healthy and vibrant garden that produces delicious, homegrown produce.