Is it Good to Plant Basil with Tomatoes?

There are many different herbs and plants that can be grown alongside tomatoes in the garden, but one of the most popular choices is basil. Not only do basil plants look great next to tomatoes, but they also have a range of benefits that can help to improve the growth and health of your tomato plants. So, is it really a good idea to plant basil with tomatoes? Let's take a closer look.

The Benefits of Planting Basil with Tomatoes

There are several reasons why planting basil alongside your tomato plants can be a great idea. Perhaps the most compelling reason is that basil has natural insect-repelling properties. Basil plants emit a strong scent that can help to deter common tomato pests like flies, mosquitoes, and aphids. This means that planting basil near your tomato plants can help to protect them from insect damage, which can in turn support healthy growth and better yields.

But that's not the only benefit of planting basil with tomatoes. Basil also has a deep root system that can help to improve soil health and drainage. As the roots of the basil plant grow through the soil, they can help to break up compacted soil and improve water infiltration. This can be particularly helpful if you have heavy clay soil or if your garden is prone to waterlogging.

Another reason to plant basil with tomatoes is that the two plants have similar growing requirements. Both plants prefer warm, sunny conditions and well-draining soil. Planting them together in the same area can help to create the ideal growing environment for both plants, which can lead to better growth and development.

How to Plant Basil with Tomatoes

If you are interested in planting basil with your tomato plants, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that you choose a variety of basil that is well-suited to your growing region. Some popular options include sweet basil, Thai basil, and Genovese basil. You should also select a site for your basil plants that receives plenty of sunshine and has well-draining soil.

When it comes to planting, you can either interplant basil and tomatoes in the same row or create a separate bed for your basil plants nearby. If you are planting them in the same row, make sure to space them about 12-18 inches apart so that each plant has enough room to grow. Remember to water your plants regularly and fertilize them with a high-quality tomato fertilizer once they start to grow.

Conclusion

Planting basil with tomatoes can be an excellent way to improve the health and productivity of your garden. Not only do these plants look great together, but they also have a range of benefits that can help to support healthy growth and development. Whether you are growing vegetables in containers or in a raised bed, consider adding some basil plants to your garden to see how they can enhance your tomato crops.