The Best Companion Plants For Tomatoes

The Best Companion Plants for Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular and delicious vegetable that can be grown in many different climates. However, did you know that there are some plants that can help tomatoes grow better? These are called companion plants, and they can provide a number of benefits to tomatoes, including:

• Attracting beneficial insects: Some companion plants, such as marigolds and nasturtiums, attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps. These insects help to control pests that can damage tomatoes.
• Distracting pests: Other companion plants, such as chives and garlic, have strong scents that can distract pests from tomatoes. This can help to keep your tomatoes safe from damage.
• Improving soil health: Some companion plants, such as beans and peas, can help to improve the soil health around tomatoes. This can make the soil more fertile and help tomatoes to grow better.

So, what are the best companion plants for tomatoes? Here are a few of the most popular and effective options:

• Basil: Basil is a classic companion plant for tomatoes, and for good reason. Basil has a strong scent that can mask the smell of tomatoes, which helps to keep pests away. Basil also helps to improve the flavor of tomatoes, making them even more delicious.
• Marigolds: Marigolds are another great companion plant for tomatoes. Marigolds have a strong scent that can repel pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes. They also help to improve the drainage around tomatoes, which can help to prevent root rot.
• Chives: Chives have a strong scent that can repel pests such as aphids and spider mites. They also help to improve the flavor of tomatoes, making them even more delicious.
• Garlic: Garlic has a strong scent that can repel pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It also helps to improve the flavor of tomatoes, making them even more delicious.
• Beans: Beans are nitrogen-fixing plants, which means that they can help to improve the nitrogen levels in the soil around tomatoes. This can help tomatoes to grow better.
• Peas: Peas are also nitrogen-fixing plants, and they can provide the same benefits as beans.
• Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums have a strong scent that can repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies. They also help to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps.
• Borage: Borage has a strong scent that can repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies. It also helps to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps. Borage also helps to improve the pollination of tomatoes, which can lead to a better harvest.

These are just a few of the many companion plants that can be beneficial for tomatoes. When choosing companion plants, it is important to consider the specific needs of your tomatoes and the climate in which you live. However, any of the plants listed above can be a great addition to your tomato garden.

Do you want to grow the best tomatoes possible? If so, you need to know about companion planting. Companion planting is the practice of planting certain plants together to benefit each other. There are many different companion plants that can be beneficial for tomatoes, but some of the best include:

• Basil: Basil is a classic companion plant for tomatoes. It helps to repel pests and attract beneficial insects.
• Marigolds: Marigolds also help to repel pests and attract beneficial insects. They also help to improve the soil quality.
• Chives: Chives help to deter nematodes, which can damage tomato plants. They also help to improve the flavor of tomatoes.
• Beans and peas: Beans and peas are nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they can help to improve the nitrogen content of the soil. This is beneficial for tomatoes, which are heavy feeders.
• Lettuce: Lettuce helps to suppress weeds and attract beneficial insects. It also helps to keep the soil cool, which is important for tomatoes.

For more information about the best companions for tomatoes, please visit Garden Wiki.

FAQ of best companions for tomatoes

What are the best companion plants for tomatoes?

Some of the best companion plants for tomatoes include:

• Basil: Basil is a classic companion plant for tomatoes, and for good reason. The strong smell of basil can mask tomatoes from pests like thrips, aphids, and spider mites, protecting the plants. Basil can also deter tomato hornworms and armyworms.
• Marigolds: Marigolds are another great companion plant for tomatoes. Their strong scent helps confuse insects so they can't find your tomatoes. Plus, the beautiful flowers are great at attracting beneficial insects like pollinators.
• Borage: Borage is a flowering herb that is not only beautiful, but it also has some beneficial effects for tomatoes. Borage attracts pollinators, which can help to increase fruit production. It also releases chemicals that help to suppress the growth of harmful nematodes in the soil.
• Peas: Peas are a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means they can help to improve the nitrogen content of the soil around your tomatoes. This can help to boost the growth and productivity of your tomato plants.
• Carrots: Carrots are another good companion plant for tomatoes. They help to improve the drainage of the soil around your tomatoes, which can help to prevent root rot. Carrots also release chemicals that help to suppress the growth of harmful fungi in the soil.

What plants should I avoid planting near tomatoes?

There are a few plants that you should avoid planting near tomatoes. These include:

• Brassicas: Brassicas, such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower, should not be planted near tomatoes. These plants compete with tomatoes for nutrients and water, and they can also attract pests and diseases.
• Eggplants: Eggplants are another member of the nightshade family, and they should not be planted near tomatoes. This is because eggplants can share the same pests and diseases as tomatoes.
• Potatoes: Potatoes are also a member of the nightshade family, and they should not be planted near tomatoes. This is for the same reason as eggplants.

How far apart should I plant tomatoes?

The distance that you should plant tomatoes apart depends on the variety of tomato that you are planting. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should plant tomatoes at least 2 feet apart. This will give the plants enough space to grow and mature properly.

When should I plant tomatoes?

The best time to plant tomatoes depends on your climate. In most cases, you should wait until the soil has warmed up to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit before planting tomatoes. You can also wait until the last frost has passed.

How do I care for tomatoes?

Tomatoes need regular watering, fertilizer, and sunlight. You should also prune your tomato plants regularly to remove any dead or diseased leaves. With proper care, your tomato plants will produce a bountiful harvest.

Image of best companions for tomatoes

• Marigolds
• Basil
• Chives
• Asparagus
• Celery
• Borage
• Nasturtiums
• Sunflowers
• Onions
• Garlic