How to Keep Bugs from Eating Your Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a delicious addition to any garden, but unfortunately, bugs love them as much as we do. If you're tired of watching your tomato plants get decimated by pests, here are some tips to keep the bugs at bay and protect your harvest.

Choose Your Tomato Variety Carefully

Some tomato varieties are more resistant to bugs than others, so it's worth doing some research to find a variety that is less susceptible to pests. For example, cherry tomatoes and grape tomatoes tend to be less attractive to bugs than beefsteak tomatoes. Look for tomato varieties that are labeled as "resistant" to common tomato pests like aphids, tomato hornworms, and whiteflies.

Plant Companion Plants

Planting companion plants alongside your tomato plants can help to deter bugs. Marigolds and basil are particularly effective at repelling pests like aphids, spider mites, and tomato hornworms. Alternatively, you can plant plants that attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies, which feed on pests.

Cover Your Plants

Covering your tomato plants with netting can help to prevent bugs from getting to them. Make sure the netting is secured tightly and covers the plants completely to keep the bugs out. Row covers are also effective at keeping pests away and can be used to cover entire rows of tomato plants.

Use Natural Pest Deterrents

There are many natural pest deterrents that are effective at keeping bugs away from tomato plants. One of the most effective is neem oil, which can be sprayed on the plants to repel bugs. Garlic and hot pepper spray are also effective options. Just make sure to wash the tomatoes thoroughly before eating them if you use any of these sprays.

Practice Good Garden Hygiene

Maintaining good garden hygiene is important to keep pests at bay. Remove any dead or diseased plant material from the garden, as this can attract pests. Keep the area around your tomato plants free from weeds, as weeds can provide a home for pests. Finally, make sure to rotate your tomato plants every year to prevent pest buildup in the soil.

In Conclusion

By taking these steps, you can help to keep bugs from eating your tomato plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, ripe tomatoes. Remember to choose your tomato variety carefully, plant companion plants, cover your plants, use natural pest deterrents, and practice good garden hygiene. With a little effort, you can protect your plants and enjoy a delicious harvest all season long.