1. Basil
Enhances tomato flavor and repels pests like whiteflies and mosquitoes.
Basil also attracts pollinators, boosting fruit production.
2. Parsley
Attracts predatory insects like hoverflies and ladybugs, which feed on tomato pests.
3. Garlic
Its pungent smell deters aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Garlic also helps prevent fungal infections in tomatoes.
4. Chives
A natural deterrent for aphids and beetles, chives can also improve tomato flavor.
5. Nasturtiums
Acts as a trap crop, luring aphids and whiteflies away from tomatoes.
Its flowers are edible and add a peppery flavor to salads.
6. Borage
Attracts bees and improves soil health.
It’s also thought to deter tomato hornworms.
7. Carrots
Loosens the soil around tomato roots, improving aeration and water absorption.
Carrots and tomatoes have similar watering needs.
8. Lettuce
Grows well in the shade of tomato plants, maximizing space in your garden.
Helps retain soil moisture.
9. Spinach
Like lettuce, spinach thrives under tomato plants and adds diversity to your garden.
Prevents soil erosion.
10. Onions
Repels aphids, mites, and other pests with its strong aroma.
Doesn’t compete for nutrients with tomatoes.
11. Cilantro
Attracts beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and hoverflies that keep tomato pests in check.
12. Dill
Repels pests like aphids and spider mites but also attracts tomato hornworm predators.
Avoid planting too close, as dill can stunt tomato growth if it becomes too large.
13. Mint
Its strong scent repels aphids, whiteflies, and flea beetles.
Be cautious, as mint can spread aggressively.
14. Celery
Shares similar growing conditions with tomatoes and repels pests like the cabbage moth.
15. Thyme
Acts as a pest repellent, particularly for whiteflies.
Its low growth doesn’t compete with tomatoes for sunlight.
16. Cucumber
Grows well with tomatoes but needs trellising to avoid overcrowding.
Can improve tomato plant microclimates by providing ground cover.
17. Marjoram
Encourages pollination and complements tomatoes by boosting their flavor.
18. Peppers
Thrive in similar conditions as tomatoes and deter pests like aphids and spider mites.
19. Beans
Fix nitrogen in the soil, which tomatoes use for healthy growth.
Provide shade for soil to retain moisture.
20. Sunflowers
Attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
Their tall stalks can act as natural trellises for sprawling tomato vines.
Plants to Avoid Growing with Tomatoes
While companion plants can benefit tomatoes, some plants should be avoided as they compete for nutrients or attract pests:
Corn: Attracts tomato pests like the tomato fruitworm.
Potatoes: Prone to similar diseases as tomatoes, such as blight.
Cabbage Family (Broccoli, Cauliflower): Competes for nutrients, stunting tomato growth.
Fennel: Inhibits tomato growth by releasing chemicals into the soil.
Conclusion
Marigolds and other companion plants are natural allies for your tomato garden, offering protection, improving growth, and adding biodiversity. By strategically planting marigolds alongside these 20 other plants, you can create a harmonious garden that maximizes productivity while reducing the need for chemical interventions. 🌼🍅✨
