Companion Plants for Tomatoes: The Ultimate Guide

Oleh Anonymous December 16, 2022 Post a Comment

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Good Tomato Companion Plants

When it comes to growing tomatoes, many gardeners have had success by planting them alongside companion plants. Companion planting involves the strategic placement of plants that benefit each other in some way.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing companion plants for tomatoes is their ability to improve soil health. Good tomato companion plants often have deep roots that help to break up compacted soil and increase drainage. They can also add nitrogen to the soil or repel harmful pests and insects.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the best tomato companion plants and how they can help you grow a bountiful harvest.

The Best Tomato Companion Plants

1. Basil

Basil is a popular herb that is commonly used in Italian cuisine. But did you know that it makes an excellent companion plant for tomatoes? Not only does basil attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, but it also repels harmful pests like aphids and whiteflies.

Plant basil around the edge of your tomato bed or intersperse it throughout your plants to help keep pests at bay. Plus, you'll have fresh herbs to use in your cooking!

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another great companion plant for tomatoes. These brightly colored flowers are known for their ability to repel nematodes, which are microscopic worms that can damage the roots of your tomato plants.

Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your tomato bed or mix them in with your plants to help keep nematodes away. Plus, they'll add a pop of color to your garden!

3. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a popular edible flower that make a great companion plant for tomatoes. They attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, and they also repel harmful pests like aphids and whiteflies.

Plant nasturtiums around the edge of your tomato bed or intersperse them throughout your plants to help keep pests at bay. Plus, you can add the colorful flowers to your salads for an extra pop of flavor!

4. Borage

Borage is a herb with bright blue flowers that is known for its ability to attract beneficial insects like bees and wasps. It also repels harmful pests like tomato hornworms and cabbage worms.

Plant borage around the edge of your tomato bed or mix it in with your plants to help keep pests away. Plus, the leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish!

5. Garlic

Garlic is a pungent herb that is often used in cooking, but did you know that it can also help keep pests away from your tomatoes? Plant garlic around the perimeter of your tomato bed or mix it in with your plants to repel harmful insects like aphids and spider mites.

Plus, you'll have fresh garlic to use in your cooking!

Other Good Tomato Companion Plants

In addition to the plants mentioned above, there are several other good tomato companion plants that you may want to consider. These include:

6. Carrots

Carrots are a root vegetable that can help improve soil health by breaking up compacted soil. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which will help keep harmful pests like aphids under control.

Plant carrots around the edge of your tomato bed or mix them in with your plants to help improve soil health and attract beneficial insects.

7. Chives

Chives are a member of the onion family and are known for their ability to repel harmful insects like aphids and spider mites. They also attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

Plant chives around the perimeter of your tomato bed or mix them in with your plants to help keep pests at bay.

8. Dill

Dill is an herb that is often used in pickling, but it also makes a great companion plant for tomatoes. It attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which will help keep harmful pests like aphids and spider mites under control.

Plant dill around the edge of your tomato bed or mix it in with your plants to help attract beneficial insects.

9. Peppers

Peppers are a vegetable that can help repel harmful pests like aphids and spider mites. They also add nitrogen to the soil, which can help improve soil health.

Plant peppers around the edge of your tomato bed or mix them in with your plants to help keep pests at bay.

10. Spinach

Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that can help improve soil health by adding nitrogen to the soil. It also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

Plant spinach around the perimeter of your tomato bed or mix it in with your plants to help improve soil health and attract beneficial insects.

Tips for Companion Planting Tomatoes

When planting companion plants alongside your tomatoes, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Choose plants that have similar growing conditions.

Make sure to choose companion plants that have similar growing conditions to your tomatoes. This includes factors like light requirements, watering needs, and soil pH.

2. Don't overcrowd your plants.

While it can be tempting to plant as many companion plants as possible, make sure to give your tomato plants enough space to grow. Overcrowding can lead to competition for resources and a decreased harvest.

3. Rotate your crops.

To prevent soil-borne diseases and pests from building up in your garden, make sure to rotate your crops each year. This means planting tomatoes in a different spot each year and avoiding planting them in the same spot for at least three years.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I plant tomatoes and cucumbers together?

While cucumbers are not typically considered a good companion plant for tomatoes, there is no harm in planting them together. Just make sure to give both plants enough space to grow and avoid overcrowding.

2. What are some plants that should not be planted with tomatoes?

Plants that are members of the nightshade family, like potatoes and eggplants, should not be planted with tomatoes. They can attract similar pests and diseases and may compete for resources.

3. How many companion plants should I plant alongside my tomatoes?

There is no hard and fast rule for how many companion plants to plant alongside your tomatoes. It will depend on the size of your garden and the growing conditions in your area. Generally, it's best to with just a few companion plants and see how they do before adding more.

4. Do I need to fertilize my companion plants?

Companion plants may benefit from fertilization, but it will depend on the specific plant and its growing requirements. Make sure to research the fertilization needs of each companion plant before planting.

5. Can companion planting help me reduce the use of pesticides?

Yes, companion planting can help reduce the need for pesticides by attracting beneficial insects and repelling harmful pests. However, it's important to monitor your garden regularly and take action if you notice signs of pest damage.

Companion planting is a great way to improve soil health, attract beneficial insects, and repel harmful pests from your tomato plants. By choosing the right companion plants and following a few simple tips, you can grow a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes in your own backyard.