Introduction

When it comes to gardening, there are a few rules that every gardener should know in order to ensure healthy and successful plant growth. One of the most important rules is knowing what plants should not be planted with others. In this article, we will be focusing on what plants should not be planted with tomatoes, as this is a common question among gardeners.

Plants to Avoid Planting with Tomatoes

As much as we love tomatoes, they have a few enemies in the plant world that should be avoided when possible. Here are some plants that should not be planted with tomatoes:

1. Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower)

Brassicas should not be planted with tomatoes, as they are known to attract the same pests and contribute to the spread of diseases. This is especially true for plants in the brassica family like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. By planting these plants with your tomatoes, you are putting your entire garden at risk.

2. Nightshade Family (Peppers, Potatoes, Eggplant)

The nightshade family includes plants like peppers, potatoes, and eggplant, all of which should be avoided when planting tomatoes. The reason for this is that they are all susceptible to various diseases, fungi, and pests like aphids and spider mites. By planting them together, you are creating a breeding ground for these problems, which can spread to other plants in your garden.

3. Fennel

Fennel is another plant that should not be planted with tomatoes. This is because fennel releases a chemical that can be toxic to tomatoes, which can cause them to wilt and die. Additionally, fennel can attract pests like aphids and mealybugs which can spread to other plants in your garden.

Plants to Plant with Tomatoes

Now that we know what not to plant with tomatoes, it's important to note what plants are safe and even beneficial to plant with them. Here are a few plants that can be planted alongside your tomato plants:

1. Basil

Basil is a herb that is known for its ability to repel pests like flies and mosquitos. Additionally, it is believed to improve the flavor and growth of tomatoes. This makes it an ideal plant to grow alongside tomatoes in the garden.

2. Garlic

Garlic is another herb that is believed to repel pests like aphids and spider mites. Additionally, it is known to improve the health and taste of tomatoes. Planting garlic near your tomatoes can help to create a protective environment and reduce the risk of pest infestations and diseases.

3. Marigolds

Marigolds are known for their ability to repel pests like nematodes and other soil-borne pathogens. Additionally, they can help to attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that prey on pests like aphids and mealybugs.

Conclusion

Knowing what plants not to plant with tomatoes is just as important as knowing what plants to plant with them. By avoiding plants in the brassica and nightshade families, and fennel, you can help to ensure a healthy and thriving tomato crop. By planting plants like basil, garlic, and marigolds alongside your tomato plants, you can create a protective environment that repels pests and attracts beneficial insects. Happy gardening!