Introduction

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in a garden. They are versatile, delicious, and easy to cultivate. However, to help maximize the yield and quality of your tomato plants, it is essential to plant the right companion plants alongside them. In this article, we will discuss what plants to plant next to tomatoes.

Companion plants for tomatoes

Companion planting refers to the practice of planting different types of crops together to benefit one another, either by repelling pests or attracting beneficial insects. When it comes to tomatoes, here are some companion plants that can help improve their growth:

Basil

Basil is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes. Not only does it repel pests like flies and mosquitoes, but it can also improve the taste and scent of the tomatoes that grow alongside it. Basil also resists soil nematodes, which can damage tomato roots. Plant basil around the base of your tomato plants, or in the spaces between them.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another great companion plant for tomatoes. They are especially effective at repelling whiteflies and nematodes, which can harm tomato plants. Marigolds also produce a chemical that helps repel nematodes from the soil. Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your tomato patch or interplant them with your tomato plants.

Garlic

Garlic is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes because it repels pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It also has antifungal properties that can help protect your tomato plants from diseases like blight. Plant garlic around the base of your tomato plants or interplant it with them.

Parsley

Parsley is another useful companion plant for tomatoes. It attracts predatory insects like hoverflies and ladybugs, which feed on pests like aphids and mites. Parsley also adds minerals to the soil that can benefit tomato growth. Plant parsley in the same bed as your tomato plants or interplant it with them.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are an attractive and useful companion plant for tomatoes. They repel pests like whiteflies and aphids while attracting beneficial insects like bees and predatory bugs. Nasturtiums also have antibacterial properties that can help protect your tomato plants from disease. Plant nasturtiums around the base of your tomato plants or interplant them with your tomatoes.

Conclusion

Planting the right companion plants next to your tomato plants can have a significant impact on their growth and yield. By interplanting basil, marigolds, garlic, parsley, or nasturtiums, you can help repel pests, attract beneficial insects, and improve the overall health of your tomato plants. Consider using these companion plants to help ensure a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes.