Companion planting is a time-tested gardening technique that involves growing different plants together to improve growth, deter pests, and enhance flavor. When it comes to tomatoes, certain plants can help maximize their health and yield. Here are the 10 best companion plants for tomatoes and how they benefit your garden.
1. Basil
Basil is one of the best companion plants for tomatoes. Not only does it enhance the flavor of tomatoes when grown nearby, but it also repels common pests like aphids, mosquitoes, and whiteflies. Planting basil near your tomatoes can also improve overall plant health and vigor.
2. Marigolds
Marigolds are known for their ability to repel nematodes, aphids, and tomato hornworms. Their bright flowers attract pollinators, which can improve fruit production in your garden. Plant marigolds around the base of your tomato plants to create a natural pest barrier.
3. Carrots
Carrots and tomatoes make great companions because carrots help aerate the soil, allowing tomato roots to spread more easily. Though tomatoes may slightly stunt carrot growth, the two plants can still coexist well without significant harm to each other.
4. Garlic
Garlic is an excellent natural pest deterrent. It repels aphids, spider mites, and other harmful insects that may attack tomato plants. Additionally, its antifungal properties can help prevent common tomato diseases like blight.
5. Lettuce
Lettuce grows well in the shaded area beneath tomato plants. It helps suppress weeds and retains soil moisture. Since lettuce has shallow roots, it doesn’t compete with tomatoes for nutrients, making them excellent garden companions.
6. Onions
Onions, like garlic, repel pests that target tomato plants, such as aphids and thrips. Their strong scent helps confuse insects, reducing the likelihood of infestations. Plant onions in between or around your tomato plants for maximum benefit.
7. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are often used as a trap crop, attracting aphids and other pests away from tomatoes. Their bright flowers also draw pollinators into your garden, promoting better tomato yields. Additionally, nasturtiums help deter whiteflies and squash bugs.
8. Borage
Borage is a lesser-known but highly beneficial companion plant for tomatoes. It attracts pollinators, improves soil health, and deters tomato hornworms. Some gardeners also believe that borage enhances the flavor and growth of tomatoes.
9. Celery
Celery grows well with tomatoes and helps improve soil moisture retention. It also benefits from the shade provided by tomato plants, making them a great pairing in a vegetable garden.
10. Parsley
Parsley attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which help control aphid populations. It also enhances soil quality and can be grown close to tomato plants without competing for resources.
Plants to Avoid Near Tomatoes
While some plants benefit tomatoes, others can hinder their growth. Avoid planting tomatoes near:
- Brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower) – They compete for nutrients and stunt tomato growth.
- Corn – Both attract the same pests, such as the corn earworm and tomato fruitworm.
- Potatoes & Eggplants – These are in the same family as tomatoes and are susceptible to similar diseases, increasing the risk of infections like blight.
Conclusion
Companion planting is a simple yet effective way to improve the health and productivity of your tomato plants. By choosing the right companions, you can naturally deter pests, enhance soil health, and maximize your harvest. Try incorporating some of these beneficial plants into your garden and enjoy healthier, more flavorful tomatoes!
