Introduction

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable that many people enjoy growing in their gardens. However, not all plants are compatible with tomatoes, and planting certain crops close to them can actually harm their growth and overall health. In this article, we will discuss what not to plant close to tomatoes.

Plants to Avoid

While there are many plants that can be grown alongside tomatoes without issue, there are a few that should be avoided. One of the most common plants to avoid planting near tomatoes is the potato plant. This is because both tomatoes and potatoes are in the nightshade family, and planting them together can encourage the spread of diseases that affect both crops.

Another plant to avoid planting near tomatoes is the walnut tree. Walnuts contain a toxin called juglone, which can be released into the soil and harm nearby plants, including tomatoes.

Why These Plants are Harmful

The reason why the potato plant and walnut tree are harmful to tomatoes is due to the diseases and toxins they release into the soil. The potato plant can spread blight, a fungal disease that affects both potatoes and tomatoes. Planting these two crops together can increase the likelihood of blight developing and spreading. Similarly, the walnut tree releases juglone, which can inhibit the growth of nearby plants, including tomatoes.

Alternatives to Planting Near Tomatoes

If you want to plant something near your tomatoes, but want to avoid the plants mentioned above, there are plenty of alternatives. One option is to plant herbs like basil or oregano. These plants have natural pest-repelling properties and can help keep your tomatoes healthy. Additionally, planting marigolds near your tomatoes can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which can help control pests that can harm your plants.

Another option is to plant certain vegetables that are compatible with tomatoes. For example, peppers, onions, and carrots are all good choices to plant near tomatoes because they have similar soil and watering requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting certain plants near tomatoes can harm their growth and health. To ensure your tomatoes thrive, it's important to avoid planting potatoes and walnut trees near them. Instead, consider planting herbs or other compatible vegetables that can help keep your tomatoes healthy and pest-free.