Can you plant basil and tomatoes together?

Many gardeners wonder whether it is a good idea to plant basil and tomatoes together. The answer is yes, you can plant basil and tomatoes together. In fact, they are perfect companion plants.

Why are basil and tomatoes perfect companion plants?

Companion planting is when two or more plants are grown together for mutual benefit. Basil and tomatoes have a beneficial relationship because they improve each other's flavor and growth. Basil repels pests and attracts beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, which help pollinate the tomatoes. Tomatoes, on the other hand, create a shaded environment for the basil and help prevent sunscald.

How to plant basil and tomatoes together

To plant basil and tomatoes together, you should choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Make sure to space the plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation. You can either plant them directly in the ground or in containers, depending on your space and preferences.

When planting tomatoes, dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball and add some compost or fertilizer. Place the tomato plant in the hole and replace the soil. When planting basil, make sure to gently loosen the roots and plant it to the same depth as it was in the original container.

After planting, make sure to water the plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. You can also add a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How to care for basil and tomatoes together

To care for basil and tomatoes together, you should regularly prune the basil and remove any yellow or diseased leaves. This will help prevent any disease or pest problems from spreading to the tomatoes. You should also stake the tomatoes to support their growth and prevent them from collapsing under their own weight.

To encourage healthy growth, you can also fertilize the plants once a month with a balanced fertilizer. However, make sure not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced fruit production.

Harvesting basil and tomatoes

You can start harvesting the basil leaves as soon as the plant is about 6 inches tall. Make sure to pinch off the leaves and avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time. This will encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.

Tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are firm, fully colored, and slightly soft to the touch. You can either pick them when they are still slightly green and let them ripen indoors, or wait until they are fully ripe on the vine. Make sure to harvest the tomatoes regularly to encourage continuous fruit production throughout the season.

Final thoughts

Planting basil and tomatoes together can not only improve the flavor and growth of both plants but also create a beautiful and functional garden. By following the tips and guidelines above, you can successfully grow these two companion plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest.