What Plants Keep Bugs Away from Tomatoes?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables grown in home gardens around the world. Unfortunately, they are also very susceptible to pests and insect attacks. These bugs can quickly damage or destroy your tomato plants, leaving you with a lower yield or no yield at all. Fortunately, there are several plants that you can grow alongside your tomato plants that will help deter pests and keep them away from your tomatoes. Here are a few plants that you can add to your tomato garden to help protect your tomatoes from pests.

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular choice for gardeners looking to repel bugs from their tomato plants. The strong scent of marigolds is known to repel insects like nematodes, whiteflies, and aphids, which all feed on the leaves and fruits of the tomato plant. Not only do marigolds help protect your tomato plants, but they also add a pop of color to your garden. Plant marigold seeds around the border of your tomato garden to keep pests at bay.

2. Basil

Basil is a herb that is commonly used in cooking, but did you know that it can also help keep bugs away from your tomato plants? Basil contains oils that are toxic to insects like thrips, mosquitoes, and flies. Plant basil alongside your tomato plants to help keep these pests away. Not only will you have fresh basil to use in your kitchen, but it will also help protect your tomato plants from insect damage.

3. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a great plant to grow alongside your tomato plants. They attract black and green aphids away from your tomato plants, which keeps them from feeding on the leaves and fruits. Nasturtiums also add a bright pop of color to your garden and are edible, with a slightly peppery taste.

4. Chives

Chives are another herb that can help protect your tomato plants from pest attacks. The sulfur compounds in chives repel insects like aphids, Japanese beetles, and spider mites. Plant chives around the border of your tomato garden to keep these pests away from your tomato plants. Chives also add a delicious onion-like flavor to your cooking.

5. Borage

Borage is a plant that attracts bees, which help pollinate your tomato plants. It also repels hornworms, which are a common pest that feeds on the leaves and fruits of the tomato plant. Plant borage near your tomato plants to help protect them from insect damage and to encourage pollination.

In conclusion, there are several plants that you can grow alongside your tomato plants to help protect them from pest attacks. Marigolds, basil, nasturtiums, chives, and borage are all great choices that will not only help keep bugs away from your tomato plants but also add beauty and flavor to your garden.