Companion plants for tomatoes aren’t just a gardening trend—they’re a game-changer for anyone looking to boost their tomato harvest. I’ve spent years experimenting with different combinations, and let me tell you, the right companions can make all the difference.
Not only do they help with pest control, but they also improve the flavor, growth, and overall health of your tomatoes. Let’s dive into some of the best companion planting strategies that have worked wonders in my own garden!
What is Companion Planting?
Companion planting is one of those gardening hacks that feels almost too good to be true—until you see it in action. The idea is simple: some plants grow better together, whether it's because they help each other ward off pests, improve the soil, or even just provide a bit of shade.
I learned about this the hard way when my tomato plants were getting ravaged by aphids one year. My neighbor suggested planting some marigolds nearby, and guess what? Those pesky aphids moved right on out. It was like magic.
Benefits of Tomato Companion Plants
Planting the right companions with your tomatoes can make all the difference. Here’s what I’ve noticed in my own garden:
- Pest Control: Like I mentioned with the marigolds, some plants naturally repel pests. Basil, for instance, does wonders against tomato hornworms. Plus, it smells amazing!
- Improved Growth: Certain companions can help your tomatoes grow faster and stronger. Take borage, for example. It’s not just pretty to look at; it actually helps tomatoes resist diseases.
- Better Flavor: Believe it or not, some gardeners swear that planting basil next to your tomatoes can make the tomatoes taste better. I was skeptical, but after trying it out, I could swear my tomatoes were more flavorful.
- Weed Suppression: Ground-covering companions like thyme can help keep those pesky weeds at bay, so you can spend less time weeding and more time enjoying your garden.
Take a moment to watch this inspiring video from Next Level Gardening. It’s filled with expert advice that will get you excited about the planting strategies for your organic garden tomatoes!
Hope you enjoyed the video? Now let’s dive into more tips to make your tomato garden thrive. Keep reading to uncover the best plant pairings and some must-avoid combos!
Companion Planting Chart
Category | Recommended Plants | Benefits | Placement Tips |
Tall Plants | Corn, Sunflowers, Pole Beans, Okra | Provides shade, natural trellis, attracts beneficial insects | Place at the back or center of the garden |
Medium Plants | Tomatoes, Basil, Peppers, Marigolds, Nasturtiums | Supports tall plants, attracts pollinators, pest control | Position around or in front of tall plants |
Small Plants | Lettuce, Spinach, Thyme, Oregano, Carrots, Radishes | Ground cover, weed suppression, improves soil moisture | Use as border plants or under taller companions |
Quick Companion Planting Tips:
- Consider Sunlight: Ensure tall plants do not overly shade sun-loving medium plants like tomatoes. Arrange plants so that all receive adequate sunlight throughout the day.
- Use Vertical Space: Train vining plants like pole beans up tall companions or structures to save ground space for more plants.
- Companion Benefits: Choose companion plants that complement each other, such as combining pest-repelling plants with those that attract beneficial insects.
- Succession Planting: Use small plants that mature quickly, allowing you to harvest and replant multiple times in the same season.
Related:
Best Companion Plants for Tomatoes
Alright, let's get down to business. Here are some of the best companions for your tomatoes, based on years of trial and error in my garden.
Vegetable Companion Plants for Tomatoes
Companion planting with vegetables can do wonders for your tomato garden. Here are a few more fantastic options to consider:
Carrots
- Height: 12-15 inches
- Spread: 1-2 inches
- Flavor: Sweet and earthy
Carrots are a classic choice to plant with tomatoes. They grow comfortably beneath the tomato plants, taking advantage of the shade provided by the tomato's sprawling vines. This not only helps keep the soil cooler but also prevents the carrot roots from becoming tough and woody in hot weather.
Why you'll love it: Carrots don't compete with tomatoes for nutrients, making them ideal companions. Plus, their deep roots help to aerate the soil, which can be beneficial for your tomato plants.
Onions
- Height: 12-18 inches
- Spread: 6-12 inches
- Flavor: Pungent and sharp
Onions are an excellent addition to your tomato patch. They emit a strong scent that confuses pests like aphids and spider mites, keeping them away from your precious tomatoes. Their shallow roots mean they won’t interfere with the deeper-rooted tomatoes, allowing both to thrive.
Why you'll love it: Onions are natural pest repellents, and when planted around tomatoes, they create a protective barrier. They also save space in your garden, as they don’t require much room to grow.
Garlic
- Height: 18-24 inches
- Spread: 3-4 inches
- Flavor: Strong and savory
Garlic is a powerhouse when it comes to companion planting. Its strong aroma deters a range of pests, including squash bugs, spider mites, aphids, and even some fungal diseases. Plus, garlic is known for enhancing the flavor of nearby vegetables, including tomatoes.
Why you'll love it: Garlic helps to protect tomatoes from pests and diseases, acting as a natural shield. It’s also easy to plant around the edges of your tomato beds, maximizing your garden space.
Lettuce
- Height: 6-12 inches
- Spread: 6-12 inches
- Flavor: Mild and crisp
Lettuce is a quick-growing, low-maintenance companion that thrives in the shade provided by tomato plants. It’s perfect for planting under your tomatoes, where it helps to keep the soil cool and moist, which is especially beneficial during hot summer days.
Why you'll love it: Lettuce serves as a living mulch, helping to retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Plus, you get to enjoy fresh salads while your tomatoes grow above.
Spinach
- Height: 6-12 inches
- Spread: 12-18 inches
- Flavor: Earthy and slightly bitter
Spinach is another leafy green that benefits from the shade of tomato plants. It grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season, providing you with a steady supply of greens while helping to suppress weeds around your tomato plants.
Why you'll love it: Spinach is a low-maintenance companion that doesn’t compete with tomatoes for resources. Its dense growth habit also helps to keep weeds down and retain soil moisture.
Radishes
- Height: 6-8 inches
- Spread: 4-6 inches
- Flavor: Peppery and crisp
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables and can be planted early in the season alongside tomatoes. They’re great for loosening the soil, making it easier for your tomato roots to spread. Plus, radishes are known to deter cucumber beetles, which can also threaten tomato plants.
Why you'll love it: Radishes are quick to mature, often being harvested before tomatoes need the extra space. Their presence helps improve soil structure, benefiting your tomatoes in the long run.
Beans
- Height: 12-24 inches (bush), up to 10 feet (pole)
- Spread: 12-24 inches
- Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet
Beans are a fantastic companion for tomatoes because they fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching it for your tomato plants. Whether you choose bush or pole beans, they’ll add a natural boost of nutrients, which is essential for strong tomato growth.
Why you'll love it: Beans improve soil fertility by adding nitrogen, which tomatoes crave. This symbiotic relationship leads to healthier, more productive tomato plants.
Cucumbers
- Height: 1-2 feet (vining varieties can be trellised)
- Spread: 3-4 feet
- Flavor: Fresh and crisp
Cucumbers and tomatoes share similar growing conditions, making them great companions. While cucumbers can spread out and take up space, they can be trellised to save room, allowing them to coexist happily with your tomatoes.
Why you'll love it: Cucumbers benefit from the shade provided by tomato plants, especially in hot climates. In return, cucumbers help keep the soil moist, which tomatoes appreciate.
Beets
- Height: 6-12 inches
- Spread: 4-6 inches
- Flavor: Earthy and sweet
Beets are a root vegetable that can easily coexist with tomatoes. They grow well in the cooler, shaded areas under tomato plants and don’t compete much for nutrients. Plus, their deep roots help to loosen the soil, making it easier for tomatoes to grow.
Why you'll love it: Beets don’t interfere with tomato roots, making them excellent companions. They also help improve soil structure, which benefits the entire garden.
Herb Companion Plants for Tomatoes
Herbs are not just for seasoning your dishes—they’re also fantastic companions for your tomato plants. Here are a few more herbs that will work wonders:
Basil
- Height: 12-24 inches
- Spread: 12-18 inches
- Flavor: Sweet and aromatic
Basil is one of the most popular companions for tomatoes, and for good reason. Its strong scent deters pests like aphids and tomato hornworms, while also possibly improving the flavor of your tomatoes. The combination of basil and tomatoes is a classic in both the garden and the kitchen.
Why you'll love it: Basil repels common tomato pests and might even enhance the flavor of your tomatoes. Plus, it’s a versatile herb you can use in a variety of dishes, making it a must-have in the garden.
Parsley
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Spread: 9-12 inches
- Flavor: Fresh and slightly bitter
Parsley is a great companion for tomatoes, attracting beneficial insects like hoverflies, which feast on aphids. It’s a hardy herb that can be grown in the same soil as tomatoes without competing for nutrients.
Why you'll love it: Parsley attracts beneficial insects that help protect your tomatoes. It’s also a compact plant that fits easily into any garden layout.
Thyme
- Height: 6-12 inches
- Spread: 12-18 inches
- Flavor: Earthy and slightly peppery
Thyme is a low-growing herb that works well as a ground cover around your tomato plants. Its strong scent helps to repel pests, and it also helps to retain soil moisture, which is crucial for healthy tomato growth.
Why you'll love it: Thyme is a natural pest repellent and helps to suppress weeds, making it a valuable companion for tomatoes. Its low growth habit also means it won’t overshadow your tomatoes.
Mint
- Height: 12-24 inches
- Spread: 18-24 inches (can spread aggressively if not contained)
- Flavor: Cool and refreshing
Mint is another strong-scented herb that can help deter pests. However, it’s important to note that mint can spread aggressively, so it’s best to plant it in a container near your tomatoes.
Why you'll love it: Mint’s scent keeps pests away from your tomatoes. Just be careful to contain its spread, so it doesn’t take over your garden.
Companion Plants for Tomatoes in Containers
Container gardening offers flexibility, and with the right companions, your tomatoes can still thrive. Here are some additional plants to consider:
Chives
- Height: 12-18 inches
- Spread: 12 inches
- Flavor: Mild onion-like
Chives are ideal for container gardening because they take up minimal space and offer great pest control. They help repel aphids and can be snipped fresh to add flavor to your dishes.
Why you'll love it: Chives are a low-maintenance herb that keeps pests away, and they fit perfectly into containers with tomatoes. Plus, they return year after year, making them a long-term companion for your tomato plants.
Marigolds
- Height: 6-24 inches (depending on variety)
- Spread: 6-12 inches
- Flavor: Not typically eaten, but the flowers are edible and can be used as a garnish
Marigolds are a go-to for many gardeners when it comes to pest control. They emit a chemical that deters nematodes, which are microscopic worms that can damage tomato roots. They’re also effective against other pests like aphids and whiteflies.
Why you'll love it: Marigolds are not just pretty flowers—they act as bodyguards for your tomatoes. Their pest-repelling properties will help keep your tomato plants healthy and strong, making them a top choice for container gardens.
Nasturtiums
- Height: 12-18 inches
- Spread: 12-18 inches
- Flavor: Peppery, similar to arugula (leaves and flowers are edible)
Nasturtiums are often used as a "trap crop," attracting pests away from tomatoes. They draw aphids, which prefer nasturtiums over tomatoes, keeping your tomatoes safer from infestations. Plus, their bright flowers add a pop of color to your container garden.
Why you'll love it: Nasturtiums lure pests away from your tomatoes, acting as a natural shield. They’re easy to grow and can thrive in the same conditions as your tomatoes, making them an ideal companion plant.
Oregano
- Height: 12-18 inches
- Spread: 18-24 inches
- Flavor: Earthy and pungent
Oregano is a hardy herb that pairs well with tomatoes in containers. Its strong scent helps to repel pests, and it doesn’t require much attention, making it perfect for container gardening.
Why you'll love it: Oregano’s pest-repelling abilities and low-maintenance nature make it a great companion for tomatoes in containers. Plus, it’s a perennial herb, so it will keep coming back year after year.
Companion Planting Strategy for Tomato
Category | Companion Plants | Benefits | Ideal Growing Conditions |
Vegetable Companion Plants for Tomatoes | Carrots, Lettuce, Beans, Spinach, Radishes, Onions, Garlic | Improves soil health, attracts beneficial insects | Full sun, well-drained soil |
Herb Companion Plants for Tomatoes | Basil, Parsley, Oregano, Thyme, Chives, Mint, Cilantro | Enhances flavor, repels pests, attracts pollinators | Partial to full sun, moderate water |
Companion Plants for Tomatoes in Containers | Basil, Marigolds, Nasturtiums, Oregano, Parsley, Thyme | Pest control, space efficiency, improved growth | Compact size, fits well in containers |
What to Plant with Tomatoes to Keep Bugs Away | Marigolds, Nasturtiums, Garlic, Onions, Basil, Borage | Repels harmful insects, attracts beneficial insects | Full sun, consistent watering |
Tomato Companion Plants for Weed Control | Marigolds, Thyme, Oregano, Borage, Lettuce, Spinach | Suppresses weeds, ground cover, retains soil moisture | Dense planting, covers soil surface |
Tomato Companion Plants to Increase Pollination | Borage, Marigolds, Chives, Lavender, Sage, Bee Balm | Attracts pollinators, improves fruit set, enhances flavor | Full sun, attracts bees and butterflies |
Related:
Bad Companion Plants for Tomatoes
Not every plant plays nicely with tomatoes. Here are a few that have caused me grief:
- Potatoes: These two might seem like they’d get along, but they can actually spread blight to each other. I learned that one the hard way.
- Fennel: This herb is a big no-no. It can actually stunt the growth of your tomatoes, which is the last thing you want.
- Corn: Corn attracts tomato fruit worms, which are the worst! I keep these two as far apart as possible.
Tips for Tomato Companion Planting
When it comes to companion planting with tomatoes, a few simple strategies can make all the difference in the success of your garden. Here are some tried-and-true tips that have worked wonders in my own garden:
1. Start Small:
If you’re new to companion planting, begin with just a few combinations. Try pairing tomatoes with basil or marigolds to see the benefits firsthand.
Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can experiment with more complex pairings. The key is to observe how your plants interact and adjust accordingly.
2. Rotate Crops:
Even with companion planting, rotating your crops each year is crucial. This helps prevent soil depletion and reduces the risk of diseases building up in the soil.
For instance, after a season of tomatoes, try planting beans in the same spot—they’ll fix nitrogen in the soil, which will benefit next year’s tomato crop.
3. Use Vertical Space:
Tomatoes love to climb, so take advantage of vertical gardening techniques. Plant vining companions like beans or cucumbers nearby, and use trellises or stakes to give your tomatoes and their companions the support they need.
This not only maximizes space but also improves air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
4. Mix It Up:
Don’t plant the same companions in the same spot year after year. Variety is key in companion planting. Mixing up your garden layout each season helps confuse pests and keeps the soil healthy.
For example, if you planted basil with tomatoes one year, try pairing tomatoes with parsley or chives the next.
5. Pay Attention to Plant Spacing:
While companion plants can help each other out, overcrowding can lead to competition for resources like water and nutrients. Ensure that each plant has enough space to grow and thrive.
For example, give your tomatoes plenty of room to spread out, and plant smaller companions like lettuce or thyme nearby to fill in the gaps.
6. Monitor and Adjust:
Companion planting is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Keep an eye on your garden throughout the growing season, and be prepared to make adjustments.
If you notice that one plant is overshadowing another, or if pests are still a problem, don’t be afraid to move things around. Gardening is all about learning and adapting.
7. Mulch Wisely:
Mulching around your tomato plants helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Consider using living mulches like lettuce or spinach as companion plants, or opt for organic mulches like straw or grass clippings. Just make sure to keep the mulch away from the stem of the tomato plants to prevent rot.
8. Consider Companion Planting Beyond Pest Control:
While many gardeners focus on pest control when choosing companion plants, don’t forget about other benefits like improving soil health or enhancing flavors.
For instance, planting garlic near your tomatoes not only deters pests but also can improve the overall flavor of your tomatoes.
9. Experiment and Have Fun:
The beauty of gardening is that it’s a continuous learning experience. Don’t be afraid to try new companion plant combinations or test out different gardening techniques.
Keep a garden journal to track what works and what doesn’t, and use that knowledge to improve your garden year after year.
FAQs
What is the best companion plant for tomatoes?
The best companion plant for tomatoes is basil. It not only enhances the flavor of tomatoes but also repels common pests like aphids and tomato hornworms. Basil’s compact size makes it an easy fit in any tomato garden, whether in-ground or in containers.
What should not be planted next to tomatoes?
You should avoid planting tomatoes near brassicas like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower, as they can stunt tomato growth. Additionally, keep tomatoes away from corn and potatoes, as they are susceptible to similar pests and diseases, which can spread between them.
What should I plant next to tomatoes to keep bugs away?
To keep bugs away, plant marigolds or nasturtiums next to your tomatoes. Marigolds repel nematodes and other harmful insects, while nasturtiums act as a trap crop, luring aphids away from your tomatoes. Both plants are easy to grow and provide excellent natural pest control.
Can I plant peppers next to tomatoes?
Yes, you can plant peppers next to tomatoes. Both belong to the nightshade family and have similar growing requirements. However, be cautious about rotating them in the same spot year after year, as they can share diseases, which may build up in the soil over time.
What to plant with tomatoes in a container?
In a container, you can plant basil, parsley, or marigolds with your tomatoes. These plants not only fit well in confined spaces but also offer benefits like pest control, improved growth, and better flavor for your tomatoes. Make sure to choose compact or dwarf varieties to avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion
So there you have it—my best tips and tricks for companion planting with tomatoes. Whether you're growing in the ground, in raised beds, or in containers, there’s a perfect companion out there for your tomatoes.
Give it a try, and you might just find that your garden grows a little better, your harvest is a little bigger, and your tomatoes taste a little sweeter.
Got any companion planting tips of your own? I’d love to hear them—drop a comment below!
Happy gardening!
External resources: For more gardening tips on tomato companion planting, check out The Spruce and Garden Design for more companion planting techniques