When gardening, planting together can help you in many ways. It boosts growth and also optimizes the harvest in general. If you’re a fan of companion planting, here are some of the best plants to grow alongside tomatoes to promote lush, better growth.
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Plants to grow next to tomatoes
1. amaranth
Botanical name: Amaranth
Helps deter pests by attracting beneficial predatory insects, helping tomatoes grow healthy.
It can also be used as a trap crop to deter pests like beetles. Amaranth is also a great leafy green option for salads and Asian dishes and will be more than happy to thrive under tomatoes. To look at: How to sow and grow amaranth organically
2. Basil
Botanical name: Ocimum basilicum
This herb is one of the best plants to grow with tomatoes as it helps keep flies and worms away. On the other hand, it greatly enhances the flavor of tomatoes.
It also limits the egg-laying behavior of hawkmoths, which can be dangerous for tomatoes. To look at: How to sow and grow organic basil
3. Asparagus
Botanical name: Asparagus officinalis
Asparagus helps keep nematodes away from the roots of tomato plants. On the other hand, tomatoes ward off asparagus beetles with a chemical called solanine and keep you safe. To look at: Sowing and growing organic asparagus
4. Borage
Botanical name: Borago officinalis
Planting borage next to tomatoes protects them from hornworms and cabbage worms. Plus, the pretty blue flowers of this weed contrast nicely with the red tomatoes. To look at: Properties and health benefits of Borage
5. Chives
Botanical name: Allium schoenoprasum
You can grow chives under tomatoes and ward off pests like threadworms, aphids, and spider mites. This will ensure you a juicy harvest of fresh tomatoes and chives. To look at: Chives or Cebollín – how to grow, harvest and multiply
6. Dill
Botanical name: Anethum graveolens
Dill flowers are a rich source of nectar for pollinators such as wasps, spotted flies and lady beetles.
They also attract harmful pests, thus keeping the tomatoes unscathed and functioning as a perfect trap crop. To look at: Sowing, growing and harvesting organic dill
7. Thyme
Botanical name: Thymus vulgaris
Grow thyme under tomatoes to attract beneficial insects. It is also believed to improve the color and flavor of tomatoes. Thyme also controls the worm population. To look at: How to grow thyme, harvest, prune and care
8. Cilantro
Botanical name: Coriandrum sativum
Like fennel and dill, coriander flowers are a good source of nectar. The flowers attract predatory insects which feast on common tomato pests. In addition, it keeps soil temperature intact and enhances the flavor of tomatoes. To look at: How to sow and grow organic coriander
9. Fennel
Botanical name: Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel can be a good companion for tomatoes because it attracts beneficial pollinators to the flowers.
It also keeps aphids busy, saving tomato plants. Planting them in groups will also help maintain soil temperature. To look at: How to sow and grow organic fennel
10. Oregano
Botanical name: Origanum vulgare
Oregano requires minimal care and can perform best when planted under tomatoes. Plus, the grass can keep pests away, helping tomatoes grow juicier and bigger. To look at: How to sow and grow organic oregano
11. Parsley
Botanical name: Petroselinum crispum
This grass acts as a ground cover and protects the tomatoes from pest attacks by attracting hoverflies which feast on it. It also helps keep moisture intact. To look at: How to sow and grow parsley in the garden and in pots
12. Carrot
Botanical name: Daucus carota
Planting carrots near the tomato helps loosen the soil, which is ideal for growing tomatoes. They also help to enhance the flavor of the fruit. To look at: How to sow and grow carrots organically
13. Garlic
Botanical name: Allium sativum
Plant garlic under the tomatoes and protect them from the attack of the red spider mite. The pungent smell of this herb also keeps other pests away from the plant. To look at: How to Plant and Grow Garlic Organically
14. Nasturtium
Botanical name: Tropaeolum majus
Not only does it look great on tomatoes, it also traps aphids and black flies. Nasturtium flowers attract beneficial predatory insects to feed on other pests. To look at: Sowing and growing organic nasturtiums
15. Tagete
Botanical name: Tagetes
Plant marigolds under tomatoes as they repel slugs, maggots and other garden pests.
The flowers also help deter root nematodes. Marigolds also work as an excellent trap crop and support the growth of tomatoes.
16. Lettuce
Botanical name: Lactuca sativa
Grow lettuce between tomato plants and create a nice ground cover. Plus, it retains moisture and kills weeds.To look at: How to grow lettuce easily
17. Petunias
Botanical name: Petunia × hybrida
Not only can petunias add beauty to the vegetable garden, but they are also very beneficial when it comes to keeping away many tomato pests, especially aphids. To look at: How to Plant and Grow Petunias Organically
What should not be grown next to tomatoes?
Not all plants get along with tomatoes, such as:
- Kale
- Cauliflower
- Swedish
- Brussels sprouts
- Eggplant
- Potatoes
- Corn
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