What vegetables should not be planted near tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable in most home gardens. They are not only easy to grow but also versatile in the kitchen. One of the things that most people do not know is that there are some vegetables that should not be planted near tomatoes. This is because they either compete for nutrients or attract pests that can damage the tomatoes. In this article, we will look at some of the vegetables that should not be planted near tomatoes.

Cabbage and Other Brassica Vegetables

Cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower are all members of the brassica family. If planted near tomatoes, they can attract the same pests such as aphids, which can spread diseases to the tomatoes. Additionally, brassica vegetables deplete the soil of nutrients such as calcium, which is vital for tomato development. Therefore, it is advisable to plant brassica vegetables away from tomatoes.

Peppers

Peppers, just like tomatoes, belong to the nightshade family. If planted near tomatoes, they can attract the same pests and diseases, which can spread to the tomatoes. Additionally, peppers are heavy feeders and can exhaust the soil's nutrients, hence competing with the tomatoes for nutrients. It is recommended to plant peppers away from tomatoes to avoid these problems.

Potatoes

Tomatoes and potatoes are not good companions. This is because they are both members of the nightshade family and can attract the same pests and diseases. Additionally, potatoes and tomatoes are heavy feeders, and one crop can deprive the other of nutrients, leading to stunted growth. Therefore, it is best to avoid planting tomatoes and potatoes near each other in the garden.

Fennel and Dill

Fennel and dill are herbs that are known to attract tomato hornworms. These pests feed on the foliage and fruit of tomatoes and can cause significant damage. Therefore, it is advisable to keep dill and fennel away from tomatoes to reduce the risk of these pests attacking your tomatoes.

Conclusion

Growing tomatoes can be a lot of work, and planting them near the wrong vegetables can make the process even harder. Placing the above-listed vegetables away from tomatoes is an excellent way to prevent diseases and pests that can damage your tomatoes. Additionally, it is advisable to rotate crops yearly and practice good garden hygiene to keep your garden healthy and productive.