What flowers should I plant with tomatoes?

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable among gardeners, and for good reason. Not only are they delicious and versatile, but they are relatively easy to grow. But did you know that planting certain flowers alongside your tomato plants can help improve their growth and even deter pests? In this article, we will explore the best flowers to plant with tomatoes and why.

Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular flower to plant alongside tomatoes as they can help repel pests such as nematodes and whiteflies. The strong scent of the marigold plant is thought to mask the scent of the tomato plant, making it less attractive to pests. Marigolds also produce a chemical called alpha-terthienyl, which is toxic to many soil-dwelling pests.

Marigolds are an easy-to-grow annual flower that comes in a variety of colors, including orange, yellow, and red. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. To plant them alongside your tomato plants, place them in between the tomato plants or around the border of your garden bed.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are another great flower to plant with tomatoes as they can help deter pests such as aphids and whiteflies. The leaves and flowers of the nasturtium plant contain a compound called linalool, which is thought to repel these pests. Nasturtiums also attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which can help keep other pests under control.

Nasturtiums are an easy-to-grow annual flower that come in a variety of colors, including orange, yellow, and red. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. To plant them alongside your tomato plants, place them in between the tomato plants or around the border of your garden bed.

Petunias

Petunias are a popular flower to plant with tomatoes as they can help attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Pollinators are essential for tomatoes as they help to fertilize the flowers, which in turn leads to fruit production. Petunias also produce a sticky substance on their leaves and stems that can trap pests such as aphids and thrips.

Petunias are an easy-to-grow annual flower that come in a variety of colors, including purple, pink, and white. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. To plant them alongside your tomato plants, place them in between the tomato plants or in containers on your balcony or patio.

Borage

Borage is a lesser-known flower to plant with tomatoes, but it can be very beneficial. Borage attracts beneficial insects such as bees and wasps, which can help keep other pests under control. The leaves and flowers of the borage plant are also edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish.

Borage is an annual herb that produces blue, star-shaped flowers. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. To plant it alongside your tomato plants, place it in between the tomato plants or in containers on your balcony or patio.

Conclusion

Planting flowers alongside your tomato plants can not only improve their growth but can also help deter pests and attract beneficial insects. Marigolds, nasturtiums, petunias, and borage are all great options to consider. Try planting a mixture of these flowers alongside your tomato plants for a beautiful and healthy garden.