Why Do You Plant Marigolds with Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a staple in many gardens, but they can be vulnerable to pests and diseases. One way to protect your tomato plants is by planting marigolds alongside them. This companion planting strategy is a natural and effective way to support the health of your tomato plants, and it has been used by gardeners for generations.

Marigolds Repel Pests

One of the main reasons for planting marigolds with tomatoes is their ability to repel certain pests. Marigolds contain compounds that are unappealing to insects, such as nematodes, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. By releasing these compounds into the soil, marigolds create a natural barrier around your tomato plants, which helps to keep pests at bay. This means that you can reduce or eliminate the use of pesticides and other harmful chemicals in your garden.

Marigolds Attract Beneficial Insects

Marigolds don't just repel pests - they also attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies. These insects are natural predators of common tomato pests, and they can help to keep your tomato plants healthy and free from damage. By planting marigolds alongside your tomatoes, you are creating a welcoming environment for these beneficial insects, which can help to maintain a natural balance in your garden.

Marigolds Improve Soil Health

In addition to their pest-repelling and insect-attracting properties, marigolds can also improve the health of your soil. Marigolds are known for their ability to suppress certain soil-borne pathogens, such as Fusarium and Verticillium. These pathogens can cause diseases in tomato plants, so by planting marigolds, you are creating a healthier environment for your tomatoes to grow in. Marigolds also add organic matter to the soil when they decompose, which enhances soil fertility and structure.

How to Plant Marigolds with Tomatoes

To get the most benefit from planting marigolds with tomatoes, it's important to choose the right variety of marigold. French marigolds (Tagetes patula) and African marigolds (Tagetes erecta) are both effective choices, as they contain high levels of the compounds that repel pests and attract beneficial insects.

You can plant marigolds directly in the soil, or in containers alongside your tomato plants. Ideally, you should plant one marigold for every three tomato plants. To maximize their benefits, plant the marigolds a few weeks before you plant your tomatoes, so that they have time to establish themselves in the soil.

In Conclusion

Planting marigolds with tomatoes is a simple and effective way to protect and support the health of your tomato plants. By repelling pests, attracting beneficial insects, and improving soil health, marigolds can help you to grow healthier, more abundant crops. So why not give it a try in your own garden?