What Plants Cannot Go Near Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable that is grown in many gardens worldwide. They are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them a great addition to many dishes. However, tomatoes are susceptible to certain diseases, pests, and environmental factors that can affect their growth and yield. Therefore, it is crucial to know what plants cannot go near tomatoes to avoid detrimental effects on their growth and health. In this article, we will discuss some of the plants that should not be grown alongside tomatoes and why.

Plants in the Nightshade Family

Tomatoes belong to the nightshade family, along with other plants such as potatoes, eggplants, peppers, and tobacco. These plants share some common diseases and pests that can spread easily within the family. Therefore, it is best to avoid planting them near tomatoes to prevent cross-contamination, which can lead to poor growth and yield.

In addition, some of the plants in the nightshade family, such as bell peppers and chili peppers, can attract similar pests that feed on tomato plants, such as aphids and hornworms, which can damage the leaves and fruits of the plant.

Plants That Deplete the Soil

Tomatoes require specific nutrients to grow healthy and produce a good yield, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, among others. Some plants can deplete the soil of these nutrients, making it difficult for tomatoes to grow and thrive.

For example, members of the brassica family, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, are known to extract high amounts of nitrogen from the soil, leaving little for other plants, including tomatoes. Other plants that are heavy feeders, such as corn, cucumbers, and pumpkin, can also deplete the soil of nutrients and should not be grown near tomatoes.

Plants That Attract Pests and Diseases

Some plants are more susceptible to pests and diseases than others, and when grown near tomatoes, they can attract these problems to the tomato plants. For instance, planting basil near tomatoes can attract spider mites, which can damage both plants. Similarly, planting dill near tomatoes can attract tomato hornworms, which feed on the leaves and fruits of the plant.

Other plants that should not be grown near tomatoes due to the risk of attracting pests and diseases include melons, which can attract cucumber beetles that feed on the leaves of the tomato plants, and fennel, which attracts aphids that can spread to the tomato plants.

Conclusion

Knowing what plants cannot go near tomatoes is essential for any gardener who wants to ensure the best growth and yield for their tomato plants. Some of the plants that should not be grown alongside tomatoes include members of the nightshade family, plants that deplete the soil of nutrients, and plants that attract pests and diseases. By avoiding these plants and practicing proper gardening techniques, you can help your tomato plants grow healthy and produce plentiful yields.