The Best Flowers to Plant Next to Your Tomatoes

Oleh Anonymous June 23, 2022 Post a Comment

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Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables grown in home gardens, and for good reason. They're delicious, versatile, and relatively easy to grow. However, like all plants, they can be vulnerable to pests and diseases. One way to protect your tomatoes is by planting certain flowers next to them. In this blog post, we'll explore the best flowers to plant next to your tomatoes, and why they work.

Why Plant Flowers Next to Your Tomatoes?

There are several benefits to planting flowers alongside your tomatoes. Firstly, many flowers attract beneficial insects that can help control tomato pests, such as aphids and whiteflies. Secondly, some flowers have natural fungicidal properties that can help prevent diseases in your tomatoes. Finally, flowers simply look beautiful and can add color and interest to your garden.

The Best Flowers to Plant Next to Tomatoes

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are often recommended as a companion plant for tomatoes, and for good reason. They produce a strong scent that repels many common tomato pests, such as nematodes and whiteflies. In addition, marigolds attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on tomato pests. Finally, marigolds are easy to grow and come in a variety of colors, from bright orange to pale yellow.

How to Plant Marigolds

You can plant marigolds directly in the ground next to your tomatoes, or in pots if you're short on space. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Be sure to water them regularly, but don't overwater as they are susceptible to root rot.

2. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are another great flower to plant next to your tomatoes. They have a peppery scent that repels aphids and other pests. In addition, nasturtiums are edible and can be added to salads or used as a garnish. Finally, they come in a variety of colors, from bright red to pale yellow.

How to Plant Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. You can plant them directly in the ground next to your tomatoes, or in pots if you're short on space. Water them regularly, but don't overwater as they can be susceptible to root rot.

3. Borage

Borage is an herb that produces beautiful blue flowers. It's a natural attractant for bees, which can help pollinate your tomato plants. In addition, borage has natural fungicidal properties that can help prevent diseases in your tomatoes.

How to Plant Borage

Borage prefers full sun and well-draining soil. You can plant it directly in the ground next to your tomatoes, or in pots if you're short on space. Be sure to water it regularly, but don't overwater as it can be susceptible to root rot.

Other Flowers to Consider

In addition to marigolds, nasturtiums, and borage, there are several other flowers that can make great companions for your tomatoes. These include:

Petunias
Calendula
Alyssum
Zinnias
Sunflowers

Planting flowers next to your tomatoes can have several benefits, from repelling pests to adding color and interest to your garden. Marigolds, nasturtiums, and borage are all great options to consider, but there are many other flowers that can work as well. Experiment with different varieties and see what works best for you!

FAQs

1. Can I plant flowers in the same pot as my tomatoes?

Yes, you can plant flowers in the same pot as your tomatoes, as long as they don't take up too much space or compete with the tomatoes for nutrients.

2. How close should I plant the flowers to my tomatoes?

It's best to plant the flowers within a few feet of your tomato plants, so they can attract beneficial insects and help repel pests.

3. Do I need to do anything special to care for the flowers?

Most companion flowers are easy to grow and don't require any special care, aside from regular watering and occasional fertilizing.

4. Can I use companion planting to control other vegetable pests?

Yes, companion planting can be effective for controlling pests in other vegetables as well. Some common companion plants include basil, which can repel flies and mosquitoes, and chamomile, which can attract beneficial insects.

5. Are there any flowers I shouldn't plant next to my tomatoes?

Avoid planting flowers that are susceptible to the same pests and diseases as your tomatoes, as this can make the problem worse. For example, avoid planting potatoes next to your tomatoes, as they can both be affected by late blight.