Why Plant Marigolds Near Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular crop for home gardeners, but they are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Fortunately, there is a natural remedy to help protect your tomatoes: marigolds. Planting marigolds near tomatoes has been shown to have several benefits, including deterring pests, improving soil health, and enhancing the growth and flavor of tomatoes.

Deter Pests

Marigolds are known to repel a variety of pests, including nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies. Nematodes are microscopic worms that live in soil and can cause stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves in tomato plants. Aphids and whiteflies are small insects that feed on tomato plants and excrete a sticky substance that can attract ants and cause mold to grow.

By planting marigolds near tomatoes, the strong scent of the marigold’s foliage can confuse and deter pests. In addition, marigolds contain a natural insecticide called pyrethrum, which can kill insects on contact.

Improving Soil Health

Marigolds also have a beneficial effect on soil health. They are known to help control harmful nematodes in the soil, which can benefit not only tomatoes but other plants grown in the same area. Furthermore, marigolds release a chemical called alpha-terthienyl that stimulates the growth of beneficial soil microorganisms. These microorganisms help break down organic matter in the soil and make it more available to plants as nutrients.

In addition, marigolds have taproots that can penetrate deep into the soil and bring up nutrients that might otherwise be out of reach for other plants. These nutrients can then be used by nearby tomato plants to enhance their growth and productivity.

Enhanced Growth and Flavor

Finally, planting marigolds near tomatoes has been shown to enhance the growth and flavor of the tomatoes themselves. This is likely because marigolds improve soil health and help provide the nutrients that tomatoes need to grow and produce flavorful fruit.

In one study, researchers found that tomatoes grown in soil that had previously been planted with marigolds had higher levels of antioxidants, which can help protect against cancer and heart disease. Another study found that tomato plants grown with marigolds produced higher yields and larger fruit than tomato plants grown without marigolds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting marigolds near tomatoes is a simple and effective way to protect your tomato plants from pests, improve soil health, and enhance the growth and flavor of your tomatoes. By taking advantage of the natural properties of marigolds, you can enjoy a more bountiful and delicious tomato harvest.