What to Plant with Tomatoes in a Greenhouse

Greenhouses offer an ideal environment for growing tomatoes as they provide protection from harsh weather conditions, pests and diseases. However, just planting tomatoes alone may not be ideal as they require different nutrients and environmental conditions as they grow. Therefore, it’s essential to know what crops to plant alongside tomatoes to ensure optimal growth and harvest. In this article, we explore what to plant with tomatoes in a greenhouse and how it can improve your yield.

Peppers

Peppers are a great companion plant for tomatoes because they require similar soil and environmental conditions. Both plants thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH and require plenty of sunlight and nutrients. Planting peppers alongside tomatoes also helps to deter pests and insects as they contain capsaicin, a compound that repels insects.

Basil

Basil is not only a great companion plant for tomatoes but also a natural insect repellent. Planting basil alongside tomatoes helps to repel aphids, spider mites and other pests that can damage tomato plants. Additionally, the scent of basil can improve the flavor of tomatoes, making them sweeter and more delicious.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are another ideal companion plant for tomatoes as they require similar nutrients and soil conditions. Moreover, cucumbers are a climbing plant, and planting them next to tomatoes can provide support for both plants, thus enhancing their growth. However, it’s essential to ensure that the cucumber vines do not overshadow the tomato plants and block sunlight which is crucial for their growth.

Garlic

Planting garlic alongside tomatoes is beneficial as it repels pests and improves the soil quality. Garlic contains compounds that deter pests and insects while improving soil fertility. Additionally, planting garlic in between tomato plants can help to prevent diseases such as verticillium and fusarium wilt which can affect tomatoes.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are an excellent companion plant for tomatoes as they attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies which help to improve the yield of both plants. Moreover, nasturtiums also repel pests and insects such as whiteflies and aphids thus keeping the tomato plants healthy. Planting nasturtiums in between tomato plants can also help to enhance the overall aesthetic of your greenhouse.

Conclusion

Planting compatible crops alongside tomatoes in a greenhouse can help to improve their growth and yield while also preventing pests and diseases. Some of the best companion plants for tomatoes include peppers, basil, cucumbers, garlic, and nasturtiums. However, it’s essential to ensure that the companion plants do not compete for nutrients or overshadow the tomato plants. With proper planning and management, planting these crops alongside tomatoes can help to create a healthy and thriving greenhouse environment.