What to Plant with Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a versatile and popular vegetable that are grown in many gardens. However, deciding what to plant with tomato plants can be a challenge. In this article, we will discuss some of the best plants to grow alongside your tomato plants and the benefits of companion planting.

Companion Planting: What is it?

Companion planting is a gardening method where two or more plants are grown together for their mutual benefit. Some plants can help improve soil quality, repel pests, or attract beneficial insects. Tomatoes are one of the most popular plants to use in companion planting because they can benefit from the different plants grown around them.

Plants that are Compatible with Tomatoes

1. Basil: Basil is a popular herb that is commonly grown alongside tomatoes. It can help repel pests and improve the taste of tomatoes when they are harvested together. Basil also attracts pollinators and beneficial insects to the garden.

2. Carrots: Carrots are a great companion plant for tomatoes because they help to break up the soil and provide nutrients that tomatoes need to thrive. They also have a long root system that helps them access deep soil and improve water retention.

3. Marigolds: Marigolds are a popular flower that can help repel pests and attract beneficial insects to the garden. They release a chemical that repels nematodes, which are a type of soil-borne pest that can damage tomato plants.

4. Peppers: Peppers are another vegetable that is compatible with tomatoes. They help to deter pests and attract pollinators to the garden. Peppers also require similar growing conditions to tomatoes, making them a great companion plant to grow alongside them.

Plants to Avoid Growing with Tomatoes

There are some plants that are not compatible with tomatoes and should be avoided. These include:

1. Brassicas: Brassicas, such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower, can attract pests that also attack tomato plants. They also require similar nutrients as tomatoes, which can lead to competition for resources in the soil.

2. Corn: Corn is a heavy feeder that requires a lot of nitrogen. This can deplete the soil of nutrients that tomato plants need to thrive.

3. Potatoes: Potatoes are part of the nightshade family, which includes tomatoes. Growing them together can increase the risk of disease and pest problems for both plants.

In Conclusion

Companion planting is a great way to improve the health and productivity of your garden. When planting with tomato plants, consider growing basil, carrots, marigolds, and peppers. Avoid planting brassicas, corn, and potatoes near your tomato plants. By choosing the right companion plants, you can create a thriving and healthy garden that produces an abundance of delicious fruits and vegetables.