What can you plant beside tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable to grow in gardens or in pots. They are relatively easy to take care of and provide a delicious addition to many dishes. However, planting the same crop year after year in the same location can lead to soil depletion and pests. Therefore, it is important to consider what other plants can be grown beside tomatoes to improve soil health and encourage biodiversity.

Herbs

Herbs are a great option to plant beside tomatoes as they not only add flavor to your meals but can also attract beneficial insects like pollinators and pest predators. Some herbs that pair well with tomatoes include basil, parsley, oregano, and thyme. These herbs can help repel harmful insects like spider mites and aphids.

Companion plants

Companion plants are plants that benefit from being grown together with other plants. They can help repel pests, improve soil health, and provide shade or support for other plants. Some good companion plants to grow beside tomatoes include marigolds, garlic, and onions. Marigolds are particularly helpful in repelling nematodes, a type of soil-dwelling worm that can damage tomato roots.

Beans

Beans are an excellent plant to grow with tomatoes as they are nitrogen-fixing, meaning they take nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that the plants can use. Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require a lot of nitrogen, so planting beans nearby can help improve soil health and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. Additionally, beans can help provide shade for tomato plants during hot summer days.

Peppers

Peppers are another vegetable that pair well with tomatoes. They have similar growing requirements and do not compete for nutrients or space. Additionally, planting peppers near tomatoes can help to confuse harmful insects as the two plants have a different smell, making it harder for pests to locate their desired plant.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are a good choice to plant beside tomatoes as they can help to repel harmful insects such as ants and mites. Additionally, they are low-growing plants that can help to shade the soil, reducing weed growth and retaining moisture. However, be sure to provide enough space between the plants as cucumber vines can quickly take over and outcompete tomato plants.

Conclusion

There are many options for planting beside tomatoes that can help to improve soil health, repel pests, and encourage biodiversity. Herbs, companion plants, beans, peppers, and cucumbers are just a few examples of plants that can be grown together with tomatoes. By incorporating these other plants, you can create a more diverse and resilient garden that will provide a bountiful harvest of delicious vegetables.