Introduction

Tomatoes are a well-loved crop in the vegetable garden, providing all the more reason to choose the right companion plants. Before planting your tomato garden, consider what to plant by your tomatoes for the optimal yield and plant health.

Herbs and Aromatic Plants

Planting herbs such as basil, parsley, oregano and thyme near tomatoes can have a positive effect on their growth. These plants help to repel pests while also enhancing the flavor of the tomatoes. In addition to these herbs, onions, garlic and chives can help to keep pests away and add flavor to your tomato dishes.

Flowers

Planting flowers such as marigolds, petunias, or zinnias can also have a beneficial effect on tomato plants. These flowers attract beneficial insects such as bees, ladybugs and lacewings that can help to pollinate your tomatoes and reduce the number of harmful pests in the garden.

Legumes

Legume plants such as beans, peas and lentils can be planted near tomatoes to add nitrogen to the soil. Tomatoes require a lot of nitrogen to grow and thrive, so planting nitrogen-fixing plants like legumes can improve soil health and tomato yields. Additionally, legumes can help to deter pests like nematodes.

Fruits and Vegetables

Planting other fruits and vegetables such as peppers, cucumbers and squash can also be beneficial for tomatoes. These companion plants help to attract different kinds of beneficial insects that can help to pollinate your tomato plants and reduce pest populations. Additionally, they help to create a diverse garden ecosystem that can lead to better overall plant health.

Avoid Planting Certain Plants Near Tomatoes

While there are many plants that can be beneficial for tomatoes, there are some plants that should be avoided. Plants in the Brassica family including cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and kale can attract pests like the tomato hornworm that can damage your tomato plants. Additionally, planting corn near tomatoes can lead to nutrient deficiencies as both plants are heavy feeders.

Conclusion

Choosing the right companion plants for your tomatoes is an important decision that can impact plant health, yield and flavor. By taking the time to research and consider which other plants to grow alongside your tomatoes, you can create a thriving and vibrant garden ecosystem that benefits all of your plants.