What to Plant Beside Tomatoes

Introduction

Tomatoes are among the most popular fruits to grow in home gardens. But did you know that planting certain crops beside tomatoes can help improve their growth and productivity? In this article, we'll discuss some of the best plants to grow beside tomatoes to ensure a thriving vegetable garden.

Basil

Basil is a herb that is often planted beside tomatoes because it is believed to enhance their flavor. Basil also repels harmful insects that may attack tomato plants. The strong scent of basil masks the smell of the tomato plant, making it difficult for insects to locate it. Additionally, basil has shallow roots that do not compete with tomato plants for nutrients and water. Plant basil seeds or seedlings about 12 to 18 inches away from the tomato plant.

Nasturtium

Nasturtium is another plant that repels harmful insects that may damage tomato plants. It also adds a pop of color to the garden with its vibrant orange and yellow flowers. Nasturtium is an excellent choice to plant beside tomatoes as it attracts aphids, which are a common pest that attacks tomato plants. The aphids will feed on the nasturtium leaves instead of the tomato plant, leaving your tomatoes unscathed. Nasturtium also has a shallow root system and can help reduce soil erosion. Plant nasturtium seeds or seedlings about 12 inches away from the tomato plant.

Marigold

Marigold is a beautiful flowering plant that can act as a pest repellent in the garden. The scent of marigold repels harmful insects that may damage tomato plants, such as nematodes and whiteflies. Marigold also helps improve soil quality by releasing a compound that suppresses harmful nematodes. Plant marigold seeds or seedlings between 12 to 24 inches away from the tomato plant.

Peppers

Peppers are a great crop to plant beside tomatoes because they have similar cultural requirements. They both require plenty of sunlight, warm temperatures, and well-draining soil. Peppers also repel certain insect pests that can attack tomato plants, such as spider mites and hornworms. In return, tomato plants can protect pepper plants from flea beetles. Plant pepper seedlings about 18 to 24 inches away from the tomato plant.

Borage

Borage is a herb that attracts pollinators to the garden, making it an excellent companion for tomatoes. Borage also helps repel harmful insects that may damage tomato plants, such as hornworms and cabbage worms. Additionally, borage helps improve soil quality by adding nutrients as it decomposes. Plant borage seeds or seedlings about 18 inches away from the tomato plant.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are another crop that can be planted beside tomatoes because they have similar cultural requirements. They both require plenty of sunlight, warm temperatures, and well-draining soil. Cucumbers also have shallow roots, so they do not compete with tomato plants for nutrients and water. Plant cucumber seedlings about 18 to 24 inches away from the tomato plant.

Conclusion

Planting the right crops beside tomatoes can help improve their growth and protect them from harmful pests. Choose plants that have similar cultural requirements, repel harmful insects, and attract pollinators. Plant them at the recommended distance from the tomato plant to prevent competition for nutrients and water. With these tips, you can enjoy a thriving vegetable garden with juicy, flavorful tomatoes.