Introduction

Tomatoes are among the most popular vegetables for home gardeners. They are relatively easy to grow, versatile in their uses and make a great addition to any meal. However, planting tomatoes alone can often lead to poor growth and yield. In this article, we will explore the best plants to companion plant with tomatoes for a healthy and bountiful harvest.

Basil

Basil is one of the best plants to plant alongside tomatoes. Not only does it add flavor to your meals, but it also helps to repel pests and attract beneficial insects. The strong scent of basil helps to deter harmful insects such as aphids, mites, and whiteflies while attracting bees and other pollinators that will help to increase the yield of your tomatoes.

Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular companion plant for tomatoes because of their ability to repel harmful nematodes in the soil. These microscopic worms can damage the roots of tomato plants, reducing growth and yield. Marigolds release chemicals into the soil that repel these pests, making them an excellent addition to your tomato bed. Additionally, they add bright color to your garden and attract beneficial insects.

Garlic

Garlic is another great plant to grow alongside tomatoes. It has natural pest-deterrent properties that can help to keep harmful insects at bay. Garlic also helps to keep soil-borne diseases such as verticillium wilt and fusarium wilt from attacking your tomatoes. Add a few individual cloves around the base of your tomato plants to help deter pests and keep the soil healthy.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a beautiful and edible plant that is a great companion for tomatoes. They provide ground cover that helps to retain moisture in the soil while attracting pollinators and repelling harmful insects. Nasturtiums also add a spicy flavor to your salads, making them a great addition to your vegetable garden.

Conclusion

Planting companion plants alongside your tomatoes is an easy and effective way to improve growth and yield while keeping pests and diseases at bay. Basil, marigolds, garlic, and nasturtiums are just a few of the plants that can be planted alongside tomatoes. Experiment and find out which plants work best for your garden.