What to Plant Around Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable that many people love to grow in their gardens. One question gardeners often have is what to plant around their tomato plants to enhance their growth and health. Planting companion plants around your tomatoes can provide a myriad of benefits, from deterring pests to providing nutrients. Here are some great options for what to plant around tomatoes.

Basil

Basil is a wonderful companion plant for tomatoes as it is said to improve the flavor of the tomatoes and repel pests like flies, mosquitoes, and aphids. Planting basil around your tomatoes can also help to prevent diseases like fusarium and verticillium wilt. Thyme is another herb that can be planted with tomatoes, as it has similar pest-repelling properties.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another excellent companion plant for tomatoes as they can repel nematodes and other soil-borne pests. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings which can help to control harmful insects. Marigolds are also known to produce a chemical that can deter harmful root-knot nematodes from attacking the tomato plant roots.

Borage

Borage is a beautiful plant with blue flowers that is beneficial for tomatoes as it can attract bees and other pollinators. It is also said to improve the flavor and growth of the tomato plant. Borage can also repel tomato hornworms, which can be a major pest in tomato plants.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a great companion plant for tomatoes as they can help to deter aphids, whiteflies, and other harmful insects. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies. Nasturtiums can also be used as a trap crop, as they attract aphids away from your tomato plants.

Beans

Beans are great companion plants for tomatoes as they can help to add nitrogen to the soil, which is essential for growth. They also provide shade to the soil, helping to keep the roots of the tomato plant cool during hot weather. However, it is important to note that beans and tomatoes should not be planted in the same spot in consecutive years to prevent the build-up of diseases.

Conclusion

When it comes to what to plant around tomatoes, there are many great options to choose from. Companion planting can provide numerous benefits to your tomato plants and the garden as a whole. However, it is important to remember that not all plants will work well with tomatoes, so be sure to do your research before planting.