Introduction
If you're a gardener or just getting started with gardening, you may wonder what kind of flowers you should plant with your tomatoes. Flowers provide a lot of benefits to your garden, including pollination, pest control, and adding visual appeal. In this article, we will explore some of the best flowers to plant with your tomatoes.
Marigolds
Marigolds are the classic companion plant for tomatoes. They are known to repel nematodes, which are microscopic worms that can damage the root system of tomatoes. Marigolds also have a pleasant scent that can help deter other pests, such as whiteflies, aphids, and tomato hornworms. Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your tomato bed or intersperse them throughout your garden for maximum benefits.
Calendula
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is another great flower to plant with tomatoes. It attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which can help increase the yield of your tomato plants. Calendula also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it useful in natural medicine remedies.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are a popular companion plant for tomatoes because they attract predatory insects that feed off harmful pests. For example, aphids are a common pest that can infest tomato plants. However, ladybugs are known to eat aphids and are attracted to nasturtiums. Additionally, nasturtiums have edible flowers and leaves that can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Borage
Borage is an excellent plant to pair with tomatoes because it repels tomato hornworms, which are a major pest for tomato plants. Borage also attracts bees and other beneficial insects that can help pollinate your tomatoes. Additionally, borage has edible blue flowers that can be used to decorate cakes or salads.
Petunias
Petunias are another flower that can help repel pests and attract pollinators. They contain a chemical called coumarin, which repels a variety of insects, including aphids, tomato hornworms, and whiteflies. Furthermore, petunias come in a range of colors, which can add visual interest to your garden.
Conclusion
There are many flowers that can be planted with tomatoes to help repel pests, attract pollinators, and add visual appeal to your garden. Some of the best flower options include marigolds, calendula, nasturtiums, borage, and petunias. By planting these flowers alongside your tomato plants, you can create a healthy and beautiful garden that is sure to thrive!