Introduction

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable among gardeners, as they are easy to grow and offer a bounty of juicy, sweet fruit. However, planting tomatoes alone in your garden can lead to problems such as pest infestations and soil depletion. The solution? Companion planting. Planting complementary herbs, vegetables, and flowers beside your tomatoes can help encourage growth, repel pests, and keep the soil healthy. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best plants to companion plant with tomatoes.

Basil

Basil is one of the most popular companion plants for tomatoes. It not only enhances the flavor of your tomatoes but also helps repel insects such as flies and mosquitoes. In addition, it improves the growth and health of tomatoes, making them more resistant to diseases. Plant basil beside your tomatoes by scattering the seeds directly into the soil, or by planting young basil plants once your tomatoes are established.

Marigolds

Marigolds are a beautiful and effective companion plant for tomatoes. They release a chemical into the soil that repels harmful insects such as nematodes, which can damage tomato roots. Marigolds also attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which eat the harmful insects that attack tomato plants. Plant marigolds beside your tomatoes by sowing seeds at the same time as your tomatoes, or by planting young marigold plants once your tomatoes are established.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are another favorite companion plant for tomatoes. They attract aphids and other pests away from your tomatoes and also improve the flavor of your tomatoes. Nasturtiums are easy to grow from seed and can be planted around the base of your tomato plants. Plus, their bright flowers add a pop of color to your garden.

Parsley

Parsley is a great companion for tomatoes because it repels nematodes and attracts hoverflies and predatory wasps, which are natural enemies of tomato pests. Additionally, parsley is a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system of your tomato plants. Plant parsley seeds beside your tomatoes or transplant young parsley plants once your tomatoes are established.

Borage

Borage is a good companion plant for tomatoes because it deters tomato hornworms and other pests. It also attracts bees and other pollinators to your garden, which helps increase yield. Borage is a self-seeding annual that can be planted around the base of your tomato plants.

Conclusion

Companion planting is a great way to ensure a healthy and abundant tomato crop. By planting complementary herbs, vegetables, and flowers beside your tomatoes, you can improve soil fertility, repel pests, and encourage growth. Some of the best plants to companion plant with tomatoes include basil, marigolds, nasturtiums, parsley, and borage. So, get planting and enjoy a bountiful harvest!