Introduction

Tomatoes are a popular crop that many gardeners enjoy growing. They are delicious, nutritious, and versatile in the kitchen. However, just like any other crop, tomatoes need to be rotated to prevent soil-borne diseases and pests. This means that you'll need to plant something else in between your tomato plants. In this article, we'll explore some of the best plants to grow in between tomato plants.

Companion Plants

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants in proximity to one another for beneficial reasons. In the case of tomato plants, some great companion plants include:

Basil

Basil is one of the best companion plants for tomato plants. Not only does it repel pests, but it also enhances the flavor of the tomatoes. Plant basil in between your tomato plants, or even in the same pot as your tomatoes. You won't be disappointed!

Marigolds

Marigolds are another fantastic companion plant for tomatoes. They repel pests such as nematodes, and their strong scent is thought to deter rabbits and deer. Plant marigolds in between your tomato plants, or around the perimeter of your garden.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are yet another companion plant that work well with tomato plants. They repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies, and their bright flowers add a pop of color to your garden. Plant nasturtiums in between your tomato plants or around the perimeter of your garden.

Crops to Rotate With Tomatoes

Another option is to rotate crops with your tomato plants. This means that you plant a different crop in the same spot where your tomatoes were the previous year. Some great crops to rotate with tomatoes include:

Beans

Beans, such as bush beans, are a great crop to rotate with tomatoes. They are nitrogen-fixing, which means they help replenish the soil with nutrients. Plus, they are easy to grow and make a great addition to salads and soups.

Peppers

Peppers are another crop that work well in rotation with tomatoes. They have similar growing conditions, and they are both members of the nightshade family. This means that they share some of the same pests and diseases, so rotating them together can be beneficial. Plus, peppers are delicious and add a nice kick to any dish.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a wonderful crop to grow in your garden, but they do require some planning when it comes to crop rotation. By planting companion plants such as basil, marigolds, and nasturtiums, or rotating with crops such as beans and peppers, you can help keep your garden healthy and thriving. Happy gardening!