What should tomatoes not be planted with?

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable that can be grown in most home gardens. However, not all companion plants are suitable for growing with tomatoes. In fact, some plants can be harmful to your tomato plants. Here are some plants that you should avoid planting with your tomatoes:

Plants with similar nutrient requirements

Tomatoes are heavy feeders, and they require a lot of nutrients from the soil. If you plant them with other plants that have similar nutrient requirements, they will compete for the same resources, and this can lead to stunted growth and a lower yield. Vegetables that have similar nutrient requirements as tomatoes include peppers, eggplants, and potatoes. You should avoid planting these vegetables in the same bed as your tomato plants.

Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, contain chemicals called glucosinolates. These chemicals can be harmful to tomato plants and can stunt their growth. If you must plant cruciferous vegetables near your tomatoes, make sure that they are at least four feet away from each other.

Nightshade family plants

Tomatoes belong to the nightshade family, which includes other vegetables such as peppers, eggplants, and potatoes. However, some plants in this family, such as mandrake and belladonna, are toxic to humans and animals. If you have these plants growing in your garden, make sure that they are at least two feet away from your tomato plants.

Fennel

Fennel is a herb that is often used in cooking. However, it can be harmful to tomatoes if they are planted together. Fennel releases chemicals into the soil that can stunt the growth of tomato plants. If you want to grow fennel in your garden, make sure that it is planted at least 10 feet away from your tomato plants.

Walnuts

If you have walnut trees in your garden, you should avoid planting tomatoes near them. Walnuts release a chemical called juglone into the soil, which can be harmful to tomato plants. It can cause the leaves to yellow and can even kill the plants.

Conclusion

When it comes to companion planting, it is important to choose the right plants to grow together. If you want to grow tomatoes in your garden, make sure that you avoid planting them with plants that have similar nutrient requirements. You should also avoid planting them with cruciferous vegetables, nightshade family plants, fennel, and walnut trees. By avoiding these companion plants, you can ensure that your tomato plants grow strong and healthy, producing a bountiful yield for you to enjoy.