What to Plant Next to My Tomatoes

Planting the right flowers and vegetables next to your tomatoes can help improve their growth, increase crop yield, and reduce pest damage. Choosing the right companion plants is essential for growing robust and healthy tomatoes. Here are some excellent plants that you can grow alongside your tomatoes:

Basil

Basil is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes because it repels pests like the tomato hornworms and enhances the tomato's flavor. Additionally, planting basil near your tomatoes can attract beneficial insects like bees, which help pollinate your plants.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another great companion plant for tomatoes. They can help repel soil nematodes, which often feed on the roots of your tomatoes. Marigolds are also natural pest deterrents that can keep harmful insects like whiteflies and aphids at bay.

Garlic

Garlic is known for its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties. Planting garlic next to your tomatoes can help reduce soil-borne diseases that can affect your plants' health. Additionally, garlic repels some insect pests and can improve the flavor of your tomatoes.

Peppers

Pepper plants are an excellent companion plant for tomatoes because they share similar growing conditions. Both plants prefer warm, sunny spots and well-draining soil. Additionally, peppers contain capsaicin, which helps deter pests from attacking your tomatoes.

Borage

Borage is a beautiful blue or pink-flowered herb that can help attract beneficial insects, like bees and butterflies, to your garden. Additionally, borage can help repel tomato hornworms and other insect pests that can harm your tomato plants.

Mint

Mint is another excellent companion plant for tomatoes. It repels pests like ants and mosquitoes and attracts beneficial insects like bees and hoverflies. Additionally, mint leaves can be used as a natural insect repellent in your home or garden.

When planting companion plants next to your tomatoes, make sure to consider their growth habits and their nutrient requirements. Be mindful of which plants your tomatoes might compete with for resources. For example, plants like broccoli and cauliflower can grow quite large and may overshadow your tomato plants.

Overall, selecting the right companion plants for your tomato plants is an essential part of successful gardening. It can help to improve soil health, increase crop yield, and reduce pest damage. Try planting some of these suggested companion plants alongside your tomatoes this season and see the results for yourself!