Companion Crops for Tomatoes: Boosting Your Harvest

Oleh Anonymous May 06, 2021 Post a Comment

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If you're an avid gardener, then you likely know that growing tomatoes can be a challenge. These delicious fruits require a lot of care and attention to grow optimally. However, did you know that planting companion crops along with your tomatoes can help boost your harvest? Companion planting is the practice of planting different plants together to enhance their growth and protect them from pests.

In this article, we'll explore some of the best companion crops for tomatoes that you can plant in your garden to get the most out of your tomato plants.

The Best Companion Crops for Tomatoes

Basil

Basil is one of the best companion crops for tomatoes because it repels harmful insects such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Additionally, basil's strong scent can mask the smell of ripe tomatoes, making them less attractive to pests like tomato hornworms. Plant basil around your tomato plants, or even interplant it between your tomato plants.

Garlic

Garlic is another great companion crop for tomatoes because it repels pests like aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles. Additionally, garlic has antifungal properties that can help prevent diseases like blight from affecting your tomato plants. Plant garlic around your tomato plants, or even interplant it between your tomato plants.

Marigolds

Marigolds are known for their ability to repel nematodes, which are microscopic soil-dwelling worms that can damage tomato roots. Additionally, marigolds attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies, which prey on harmful insects like aphids and whiteflies. Plant marigolds around your tomato plants to keep nematodes at bay.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are great companion crops for tomatoes because they attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and predatory wasps, which can help control pests like aphids and caterpillars. Additionally, nasturtiums are edible and have a slightly peppery taste that can add flavor to salads or other dishes. Plant nasturtiums around your tomato plants or even interplant them between your tomato plants.

Peppers

Peppers are a surprising companion crop for tomatoes because they share many of the same soil and nutrient requirements. Additionally, peppers repel pests like aphids and spider mites. Plant peppers near your tomato plants or even interplant them between your tomato plants.

Other Companion Crops for Tomatoes

Carrots

Carrots are a good companion crop for tomatoes because they have shallow roots that won't compete with tomato roots for nutrients. Additionally, carrots attract beneficial insects like parasitic wasps, which prey on harmful insects like aphids and caterpillars. Plant carrots near your tomato plants, or even interplant them between your tomato plants.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are a good companion crop for tomatoes because they have similar water and nutrient requirements. Additionally, cucumbers attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which prey on harmful insects like aphids and whiteflies. Plant cucumbers near your tomato plants, or even interplant them between your tomato plants.

Mint

Mint is a good companion crop for tomatoes because it repels pests like ants and flea beetles. Additionally, mint has a strong scent that can mask the smell of ripe tomatoes, making them less attractive to pests like tomato hornworms. Plant mint near your tomato plants, or even interplant it between your tomato plants.

Oregano

Oregano is a good companion crop for tomatoes because it repels pests like aphids and spider mites. Additionally, oregano attracts beneficial insects like bees and parasitic wasps, which prey on harmful insects like aphids and caterpillars. Plant oregano near your tomato plants, or even interplant it between your tomato plants.

Parsley

Parsley is a good companion crop for tomatoes because it attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies, which prey on harmful insects like aphids and caterpillars. Additionally, parsley has a slightly bitter taste that can help deter pests like carrot rust flies. Plant parsley near your tomato plants, or even interplant it between your tomato plants.

Companion Planting Tips for Tomatoes

Plant Compatible Crops Together

When planting companion crops alongside your tomato plants, make sure to choose plants that are compatible with each other. For example, plants like onions and fennel release compounds that can inhibit the growth of nearby plants, so it's best not to plant them near your tomato plants.

Plant at the Right Time

Make sure to plant your companion crops at the same time as your tomato plants. This will allow the plants to grow together and establish beneficial relationships.

Rotate Your Crops

To prevent soil-borne diseases and pests from building up in your garden, it's important to rotate your crops every year. This means planting your tomato plants in a different location each year and choosing different companion crops to plant alongside them.

Don't Overcrowd Your Plants

While it's tempting to pack as many plants as possible into your garden, it's important not to overcrowd your tomato plants. Overcrowding can lead to poor air circulation and can make it easier for pests and diseases to spread.

FAQs

Q: Can I plant tomatoes and eggplants together?

A: Yes, tomatoes and eggplants are compatible companion crops. Both plants have similar soil and nutrient requirements, and they don't compete with each other for resources.

Q: Can I plant onions with my tomato plants?

A: No, it's not recommended to plant onions with your tomato plants. Onions release compounds that can inhibit the growth of nearby plants, including tomatoes.

Q: Can I plant herbs like thyme and rosemary with my tomato plants?

A: Yes, both thyme and rosemary are good companion crops for tomatoes. They repel harmful insects and attract beneficial ones.

Q: Do I need to use pesticides if I plant companion crops with my tomatoes?

A: If you plant companion crops alongside your tomato plants, you may be able to reduce or eliminate the need for pesticides. However, it's still important to monitor your plants for signs of pests and diseases and take appropriate action if necessary.

Q: Can I plant beans with my tomato plants?

A: Beans are not recommended as companion crops for tomatoes because they have different nutrient requirements and can attract pests like spider mites and aphids.

Companion planting is a great way to enhance the growth of your tomato plants and protect them from pests and diseases. By planting compatible crops alongside your tomato plants, you can create a healthy and productive garden that will yield a bountiful harvest.

Remember to choose the right companion crops, plant at the right time, rotate your crops, and avoid overcrowding your plants. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to growing healthy and delicious tomatoes.