Companion planting is an age old technique that has been used to maximize the yields of various crops. Companion plants offer a variety of benefits, such as help with pest control and increasing soil health. Read on to learn more about the best types of companion plants to grow with tomatoes!

What are Companion Plants?

Companion plants are plants that are grown together in close proximity. They can provide benefits to each other, such as improved growth, pest and disease control, and enhanced soil quality.

Tomatoes are a popular companion plant for many different vegetables. They can help to improve the growth of other plants, as well as provide some protection from pests and diseases. Some of the best companion plants for tomatoes include basil, oregano, parsley, and chives.

Growing tomatoes with companion plants can help to create a healthy and productive garden. Companion planting is a great way to optimize space in the garden and promote the health of all the plants involved.

Lettuce

Lettuces will work as an organic mulch for your tomato plant. It is also a great source of cooling shade from the sun too!

Beans

Beans and tomatoes are a great match for the backyard gardener. Beans love rich soil and add nutrients to the soil, while tomatoes require plenty of nutrients from their environment to grow well, so it’s smart to grow these two together to maximize your tomato yield!

Radishes

Growing radishes under tomatoes is a smart choice for farmers. Studies have shown that this practice can actually make your tomato plants less likely to go to seed, which could keep the plant from getting stressed and endangering your radishes too.

Flowers

Not only will flowers help increase pollination from beneficial insects and keep pests away, they can also provide shade while enhancing the scent of your garden. Marigolds can deter soil-based nematodes but are less helpful against attacking tomatoes. The viola is a great evergreen that needs less sunlight, is excellent in shady spots, and can be planted right inside the bed. Although roses might compete for space if not pruned properly, rose leaves get protection against black spot thanks to their proximity to the tomato vine climbing up their stems.

Onions

Raising your onions under your tomatoes produces good results with less hassle.

Garlic

Garlic will protect your plants from blight and spider mites, as well as taking up less space than onions. Plant garlic near tomatoes for a tasty pasta sauce!

Borage

Borage is a plant that grows very similarly to lettuce. Plant it near tomatoes and it will protect them from hornworms. The leaves are even good in salads.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a versatile and popular ingredient in many dishes, but they can also be part of a healthy and vibrant garden. When selecting companion plants for tomatoes, it is important to choose plants that will complement the tomato plant’s needs for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Additionally, you’ll want to select plants that will deter pests and help the tomato plant to thrive.