What Not to Plant Next to Tomato
Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in a home garden. They are juicy, delicious, and easy to grow. However, not all plants are good companions for tomatoes. Some plants can cause problems for the growth and health of your tomato plants. Here are some plants that you should avoid planting next to tomatoes:
Avoid Planting Brassicas Next to Tomatoes
Brassicas, such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower, are not good companion plants for tomatoes. These plants are known to share similar pests and diseases, which can lead to the spread of bacterial and fungal diseases. Furthermore, brassicas have a high demand for nutrients, which can outcompete your tomato plants for nutrients. This can result in stunted growth, reduced yields, and poor quality fruits.
Don't Plant Nightshades Next to Tomatoes
Plants in the nightshade family, such as potatoes and peppers, are not good companions for tomatoes. These plants are susceptible to similar diseases, such as blight, which can cause the diseases to spread rapidly. Furthermore, nightshades are heavy feeders, which means they compete with tomatoes for nutrients. This can result in poor growth and low yields of both plants.
Avoid Planting Corn and Strawberries Next to Tomatoes
While corn and strawberries are great plants to grow in the garden, they are not good companions for tomatoes. Corn attracts a pest known as the tomato fruitworm, which can cause significant damage to your tomato plants. Strawberries, on the other hand, can attract slugs and snails, which can damage your tomato plants. Furthermore, these plants are also heavy feeders and can outcompete your tomato plants for nutrients.
Conclusion
When planning your garden, it is important to consider the companion planting of your crops. While tomatoes are easy to grow, they are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases. By avoiding planting certain plants near your tomato plants, you can reduce the risk of spread and ensure healthier and more productive tomato plants.