4 Companion Plants Friendly For Tomatoes(and What Not to Plant Nearby)

Tomatoes are the top choice for many gardening enthusiasts when it comes to their gardens. When you are growing tomatoes, choosing the right companion plants is a smart decision as it can provide many benefits to your tomato plants.

On the other hand, some plants may have negative effects and should be avoided when planting tomatoes. Let's explore some best companion plants and plants that should not be planted together to help you achieve a bountiful tomato garden.

 

Basil

 

 Planting basil alongside tomatoes not only adds flavor to your dishes but also enhances the taste and growth of tomatoes. This is because the aroma of basil can repel certain pests and help maintain the health of tomato plants.

  

Carrots

 

Planting carrots near tomatoes helps reduce the population of pests. The scent released by carrots can mask the attractive scent released by tomato plants, thereby reducing pest infestations.

 

Marigolds

 

Marigolds release compounds that attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies while suppressing the growth of pests and fungi. Planting marigolds next to tomatoes provides additional defense mechanisms to protect your tomato plants from diseases and pests.

 

Cauliflower

 

Cauliflower plants can provide partial shade for tomatoes and help regulate soil temperature. In hot climate conditions, cauliflower can alleviate heat stress on tomato plants and provide a suitable growing environment.

 

Plants That Are Not Recommended Planted Together

 

Potatoes

 

Although potatoes and tomatoes belong to the same Solanaceae family, they are not suitable for planting together. This is because Solanaceae plants are prone to common diseases and pests such as late blight and powdery mildew. Planting them separately reduces the risk of disease and pest transmission.

 

Corn

 

Corn is a tall crop that competes with tomatoes for nutrients and water. Due to its fast growth, corn may restrict the development of tomato plants and reduce yield.

  

Kohlrabi

 

Planting kohlrabi near tomatoes can hinder the growth of tomatoes. The competition between these two plants may affect the growth rate and yield of tomatoes.

 

Legumes

 

Certain legumes such as peas and beans compete with tomatoes for nitrogen-fixing ability, limiting the growth of tomatoes. Legumes typically fix nitrogen in the soil, but when planted with tomatoes, they may reduce the available nitrogen content for tomato plants.

 

By selecting appropriate companion plants, you can maximize the use of space, resources, and the interactive effects of ecosystems, creating a healthy and beneficial environment for your tomato garden.

May your tomato garden thrive and yield abundant harvests!