What Cannot be Planted with Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular choice for gardeners, as they're easy to grow, produce juicy and nutritious fruits, and can be used in various dishes. However, not all vegetables, fruits, and herbs can be planted alongside tomatoes. Here are some plants that should not be planted with tomatoes:

1. Nightshade Family Plants

The nightshade family includes plants such as peppers, eggplants, potatoes, and tobacco. These plants have similar growing requirements as tomatoes and are susceptible to the same pests and diseases. Additionally, nightshade plants can attract insects that may harm tomato plants, such as the Colorado potato beetle. Therefore, it's best to avoid planting tomatoes with other nightshade plants to prevent cross-contamination.

2. Brassica Family Plants

The brassica family includes plants such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. These plants are known to release chemical compounds that can inhibit the growth and development of other plants, including tomatoes. Additionally, brassica plants attract pests such as cabbage worms and aphids, which can infect tomato plants with diseases such as mosaic virus. Therefore, it's best to keep tomatoes and brassica plants separate.

3. Corn

Corn is a heavy feeder and requires a lot of nitrogen to grow. When planted alongside tomatoes, corn may compete with tomatoes for nutrients, causing stunted growth and lower yields. Additionally, corn may shade tomato plants, reducing their access to sunlight and increasing their susceptibility to diseases such as blight. Therefore, it's best to keep corn and tomatoes separate or to plant them in different areas.

4. Fennel

Fennel is known to release chemicals that can inhibit the growth and development of many plants, including tomatoes. Additionally, fennel can attract pests such as aphids and spider mites, which can harm tomato plants. Therefore, it's best to keep fennel and tomatoes separate to prevent damage to tomato plants.

5. Walnut Trees

Walnut trees release a chemical called juglone, which can be toxic to many plants, including tomatoes. The chemical can affect tomato plants' growth and development, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and wilted leaves. Additionally, juglone can remain in the soil for up to two years, making it difficult to grow other plants in the same area. Therefore, it's best to keep tomato plants away from walnut trees.

While tomatoes can be grown alongside many plants, some plants should be avoided due to potential competition for nutrients, diseases and pests, or chemical interactions. Knowing these potential conflicts can help gardeners avoid problems and achieve healthy and productive tomato plants.