Introduction

Tomatoes are staple garden vegetables that are popular among home gardeners. They provide color, flavor, and nutrition to any dish, making them an essential part of various cuisines worldwide. However, planting tomatoes alone may leave them vulnerable to pests and diseases, leading to poor yield. One way to combat this is by planting herbs near tomatoes. In this article, we will discuss the best herbs to plant with tomatoes.

Basil

Basil is a popular herb that complements the flavor of tomatoes, making them a perfect match. It also has properties that repel pests and diseases that commonly affect tomatoes, making it an excellent companion plant. Moreover, planting basil near tomatoes attracts beneficial insects like bees, which play a crucial role in pollinating the tomato flowers, leading to better yield. Basil should be planted close to tomatoes, ideally 10-12 inches apart for optimal benefits.

Parsley

Parsley is another herb that pairs well with tomatoes. It has a bitter taste that helps repel pests, especially the tomato hornworm, which is a notorious tomato-eating insect. Parsley is also a companion plant for tomatoes as it attracts hoverflies, which feed on other tomato pests like aphids and spider mites. Plant parsley near tomatoes, and you will notice a significant improvement in your tomato yield.

Chives

Chives are hardy herbs that can grow in most soils, making them a perfect companion for tomatoes. They release chemicals that repel pests like aphids and spider mites, which are common tomato pests. Chives also produce large flowers that attract bees, which help in pollinating tomato flowers. Plant chives near tomatoes, and you will enjoy a bountiful harvest with fewer pest problems.

Oregano

Oregano is a drought-resistant herb that can grow well even in the hottest of summers. It also repels pests like aphids and spider mites, which are common tomato pests. Oregano is a perfect companion plant for tomatoes, as it improves their flavor, making them taste even better. Plant oregano near tomatoes, and you will enjoy flavorful and pest-free tomatoes.

Thyme

Thyme is a versatile herb that can be used for cooking and as a companion plant for tomatoes. It has some natural insecticidal properties, such as repelling spider mites and whiteflies. Moreover, planting thyme near tomatoes attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and bees, which help in pollinating tomato flowers. Thyme also releases chemicals that improve the overall health of tomatoes, leading to better yield.

Conclusion

Planting herbs near tomatoes is an excellent way of improving their flavor, health, and yield. Basil, parsley, chives, oregano, and thyme are just a few examples of herbs that are perfect companions for tomatoes. Planting these herbs near tomatoes will attract beneficial insects, repel pests, and improve the overall health of the tomato plants, leading to better yield. Try planting these herbs near your tomato plants, and you will notice a significant improvement in your harvest. Happy gardening!