What Plants Should Not Be Planted Near Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular gardening staple, beloved for their juicy texture and tangy flavor. However, while these plants are hardy and versatile, they can also be finicky and susceptible to certain diseases and pests. One important factor to consider when planting tomatoes is the surrounding vegetation. Some plants can actually harm the growth and health of your tomatoes, either through competition for nutrients or by attracting harmful insects and diseases. In this article, we’ll explore what plants you should avoid planting near your tomato plants to ensure a successful harvest.

1. Nightshade Plants

Tomatoes are part of a larger family of plants called Solanaceae, which also includes other nightshade plants such as peppers, eggplants, and potatoes. While these plants can make good neighbors for tomatoes in some cases, they can also carry many of the same diseases that can affect tomatoes, such as blight and leaf spot. In addition, nightshade plants can also attract the same pests as tomatoes, such as spider mites and flea beetles. For this reason, it’s important to avoid planting nightshades too close together.

2. Brassicas

Brassicas are a family of plants that includes broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. While these vegetables are delicious on their own, they can actually stunt the growth of neighboring tomato plants by competing for nutrients in the soil. In addition, brassicas can attract certain pests, such as aphids and cabbage loopers, which can damage tomato plants as well. As a general rule, it’s best to keep brassicas at a safe distance from your tomato plants, ideally by planting them in separate garden beds if possible.

3. Corn

Corn is another plant that should be avoided when planting tomatoes. While these plants may not seem like natural enemies, they can actually attract the same pests to your garden, such as the corn earworm and tomato fruitworm. In addition, corn can also take up valuable nutrients in the soil that should be going towards your tomato plants. If possible, it’s best to keep corn and tomatoes planted in separate garden beds to prevent these issues from occurring.

4. Fennel

Fennel is a flavorful herb that can be a great addition to your garden, as long as it’s not too close to your tomato plants. Fennel can actually inhibit the growth of tomatoes by releasing chemicals into the soil that can stunt its growth. In addition, fennel can also attract harmful insects such as aphids and slugs, which can damage nearby tomato plants. If you plan on planting fennel in your garden, make sure to do so at a safe distance from your tomato plants to prevent any negative effects.

5. Walnuts

If you have walnut trees on your property, you may want to avoid planting tomatoes nearby. Walnut trees release a toxic chemical called juglone, which can leach into the soil and harm neighboring plants, including tomatoes. In addition to damaging the growth of nearby plants, juglone can also attract pests such as walnut husk flies and aphids. If you’re unsure whether your property has walnut trees, it’s best to do some research or consult with a professional before planting your tomato garden.

Conclusion

While there are many plants that can be grown alongside tomatoes without issue, it’s important to be cautious when planning your garden. Certain plants can attract pests and diseases that can harm your tomatoes, or even compete with them for vital nutrients. By avoiding planting nightshade plants, brassicas, corn, fennel, and walnuts near your tomato plants, you can help ensure a successful and healthy harvest.