What plants keep bugs away from tomato

Tomatoes are a favorite among gardeners, but they can attract a variety of insects that can damage or even kill the plants. However, there are some plants that can be planted alongside tomatoes that can help to keep the bugs away. In this article, we will explore some of these plants and discuss how they work.

Basil

Basil is a fragrant herb that can help to repel mosquitoes, flies, and other insects that may be attracted to your tomato plants. It contains essential oils like eugenol, citronellol, and limonene that are known to be effective insect repellents. You can plant basil alongside your tomato plants, or you can crush up some of the leaves and sprinkle them around the base of the plants.

Basil is also a great companion plant for tomatoes because it can enhance their flavor and deter some common tomato pests like hornworms and whiteflies.

Marigolds

Marigolds are a bright and colorful flower that can also help to keep bugs away from your tomato plants. They contain a chemical called thiophene, which is toxic to many insects, including nematodes, whiteflies, and aphids. You can plant marigolds around the perimeter of your garden or intersperse them with your tomato plants.

Marigolds are also a good companion plant for tomatoes because they can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which will eat the pests that can damage your tomatoes.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are another flowering plant that can help to keep insects away from your tomato plants. They contain a chemical called lutein, which can repel whiteflies, aphids, and other pests. You can plant nasturtiums alongside your tomato plants or use them as a border plant around your garden.

Nasturtiums are also a great companion plant for tomatoes because they can attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps, which will help to control the pests that can damage your tomatoes.

Mint

Mint is a fragrant herb that can help to repel ants, fleas, and other insects that may be attracted to your tomato plants. It contains essential oils like menthol and limonene that can be effective insect repellents. You can plant mint alongside your tomato plants or make a spray with mint leaves to apply to your tomato plants.

Mint is also a good companion plant for tomatoes because it can attract beneficial insects like bees and other pollinators that will help to increase your tomato yield.

Conclusion

There are many plants that can help to keep bugs away from your tomato plants, such as basil, marigolds, nasturtiums, and mint. By planting these companion plants alongside your tomatoes, you can create a natural barrier that will repel pests and attract beneficial insects that will help to control the pests that can damage your tomato plants. So, next time you plant tomatoes, consider adding in some of these companion plants to keep your garden healthy and thriving.