What Should I Plant Next to My Tomatoes?

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable to grow in gardens, but what should you plant next to them? Companion planting is an excellent technique to promote healthy and productive gardens while reducing the need for chemicals. By pairing plants together that have mutually beneficial qualities, you can create a thriving garden with less effort. Here are some plant options to consider next to your tomatoes:

Basil

Basil is an excellent plant to grow next to your tomatoes because it repels insects. It also improves the flavor of your tomatoes by releasing volatile oils in the air that the tomatoes absorb. Basil needs full sun and consistent moisture to thrive, so be sure to plant it in a spot that receives at least six hours of sun a day.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another excellent companion plant for tomatoes because they repel many harmful garden pests, such as nematodes, tomato hornworms, and whiteflies. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. Marigolds are low maintenance and grow well in full sun to partial shade.

Borage

Borage is a herb that attracts pollinators like bees and beneficial insects while also deterring harmful pests. It also makes good companion plants for tomatoes since it can improve their growth and flavor. Borage needs full sun and well-draining soil to grow best.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums attract aphids away from your tomatoes and produce a pungent odor that deters harmful insects like whiteflies. They make an excellent addition to any garden because they are edible and have a peppery flavor that adds a unique twist to any salad. Nasturtiums need full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Peppers

Peppers make good companion plants for tomatoes because they have similar growing requirements and share some of the same pests. Spice peppers, in particular, are known to deter insects like flea beetles and spider mites. Both tomatoes and peppers need full sun and fertile soil to grow best.

When planting companion plants next to your tomatoes, there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to give each plant enough space to grow, use mulch to conserve moisture, and rotate your crops to avoid soil-borne diseases. By using companion planting techniques, you can create a thriving and healthy garden while reducing the need for harmful pesticides.