What to Plant Tomatoes Near

Tomatoes are one of the most commonly grown vegetables in home gardens. They are versatile, flavorful, and easy to grow. However, to grow healthy and thriving tomato plants, you need to know what to plant them near. In this article, we'll discuss some of the best and worst plants to grow alongside your tomato plants.

The Best Plants to Grow Near Tomatoes

Companion planting is a technique used by gardeners to grow plants together that benefit each other. When it comes to tomatoes, the following plants are excellent companions:

1. Basil

Basil and tomatoes go together like peanut butter and jelly. Not only do they taste great together, but planting basil near your tomato plants can improve their flavor and growth. Basil repels hornworms, which are a common pest for tomato plants.

2. Garlic

Garlic is another great companion for tomatoes. It repels aphids, which are tiny insects that can cause damage to tomato plants. Planting garlic around your tomato plants can also improve their flavor.

3. Marigold

Marigolds are one of the best plants to grow near tomatoes. They repel harmful nematodes, which are small soil-dwelling pests that can damage your tomato plants. Marigolds are also attractive, and they can help deter other pests from your garden.

4. Carrots

Believe it or not, carrots and tomatoes grow well together. Carrots are a root vegetable, and they don't compete with tomatoes for nutrients. Additionally, they can help break up the soil around your tomato plants, making it easier for them to grow.

The Worst Plants to Grow Near Tomatoes

While there are many plants that can improve your tomato plants' growth and flavor, there are also some plants you should avoid planting near them. The following plants can cause problems for your tomato plants:

1. Brassicas

Brassicas include broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. These plants release sulfur compounds that can stunt the growth of your tomato plants. Additionally, they are susceptible to the same pests and diseases as tomatoes, which can increase the risk of damage to both crops.

2. Nightshades

Nightshades include eggplant, peppers, and potatoes. While they are in the same family as tomatoes, they are not good companions. These plants can attract the same pests and diseases as tomatoes, which can lead to more damage in your garden.

3. Corn

While corn and tomatoes look great together, they are not good companions. Corn is a heavy feeder and can deplete the soil of nutrients, leaving your tomato plants without what they need to thrive.

Conclusion

Companion planting is an effective way to grow healthier and more robust tomato plants. By choosing the right plants to grow near your tomatoes, you can improve their growth, flavor, and overall health. However, it's also essential to avoid planting certain crops near your tomato plants to prevent damage and disease.