What to Plant with Tomatoes to Keep Hornworms Away

Tomatoes are one of the most popular and versatile vegetables in the garden, but they are also one of the most vulnerable to pests like hornworms. These nasty pests are known for destroying tomato plants quickly and leaving gardeners frustrated. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent these destructive insects from attacking your precious plants. One effective method is to plant companion plants that repel hornworms or attract natural predators that prey on them. Here are some of the best plants to grow alongside your tomatoes to keep hornworms at bay.

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular companion plant for tomatoes because they repel a wide range of pests, including hornworms. Their strong scent helps to mask the smell of tomatoes, making it harder for hornworms to locate them. Additionally, marigolds attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies that feed on hornworms and other pests. To best use marigolds as a companion plant, intersperse them with your tomato plants or plant them in a border around your garden.

2. Borage

Borage is another great companion plant to grow alongside your tomatoes. This self-seeding herb is a favorite of bees and butterflies and has attractive blue or pink flowers. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, borage also repels hornworms and attracts parasitic wasps, which lay their eggs on hornworms and prevent them from doing damage. Borage is easy to grow from seed and likes well-drained soil and full sun.

3. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a beautiful and practical companion plant for tomatoes. These colorful flowers have a spicy flavor and are great in salads, but they also repel hornworms and other pests. Nasturtiums have a strong scent that helps to mask the smell of tomato plants and deter hornworms from approaching. Additionally, they attract predatory insects like parasitic wasps and hoverflies that feed on hornworms and other pests. Nasturtiums are easy to grow from seed and can be sown directly in the ground or in a container.

4. Mint

Mint is a versatile herb that can be grown indoors or outdoors and is effective at repelling hornworms. The strong smell of mint helps to deter pests like hornworms, aphids, and whiteflies, making it a great companion plant for tomatoes. Additionally, mint attracts beneficial insects like bees and parasitic wasps that feed on hornworms and other pests. To grow mint, plant it in well-drained soil and give it plenty of sunlight.

5. Dill

Dill is another herb that repels hornworms and attracts beneficial insects. Its strong smell helps to mask the scent of nearby tomato plants and deter hornworms from approaching. Additionally, dill attracts predatory insects like ladybugs, hoverflies, and braconid wasps that feed on hornworms and other pests. Dill is easy to grow from seed and prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight.

In conclusion, planting companion plants alongside your tomatoes is a great way to control pests like hornworms without resorting to harmful chemicals. Marigolds, borage, nasturtiums, mint, and dill are just a few of the many plants that can help keep your garden healthy and thriving. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, adding these companion plants to your vegetable garden is an easy and effective way to protect your tomato plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest.