15 Best Plants to Partner with Your Tomatoes

The unassuming tomato is genuinely tasty. Whether you savor it
touched up with some sweetness
,
enhanced with a touch of MSG
, or as a
key ingredient in salsa
Nothing quite embodies “summer” like a plump, succulent tomato. Even more so than enjoying one picked right off the vine from your own garden. Despite their simplicity and delectable taste, tomatoes come with various challenges such as bugs, root rot, and numerous other troubles. These luscious vegetables require careful attention, yet certain plants can actually aid in their growth.

“Companion planting has been practiced for as long as anyone can recall,” explains John Coykendall, the seasoned horticulturist.
Blackberry Farm
“It became clear from the start that some plants flourished when cultivated alongside specific companions, whereas others hindered each other’s growth. A prime instance of this practice involves cultivating corn, beans, and squash collectively.” These combinations work well since companion plants support each other’s health through various means.

As James S. Mastaler, who serves as both the founder and CEO of
Pistils & Pollen
explains, “Incorporating companion plants enhances biodiversity within garden areas, leading to a more stable and robust ecological system. The variety of species can aid pollinators, draw useful insects, and decrease pest problems without relying on chemicals.”

To effectively practice companion planting for your tomatoes, choose the appropriate species and implement it correctly. Here are 15 top choices for growing beside your tomato plants, along with guidance on the best methods, as recommended by experts.

Read more:
The Refrigerator Hack You’d Never Expect for Organizing (Yet It Truly Works)

1. Alyssum

Interplanting, or companion planting, is one of the
top vegetable gardening advice for newbies
And nowhere does this hold more truth than with tomatoes and alyssum. It’s incredibly simple. “ Sweet alyssums serve as adaptable and advantageous companion plants, fostering a thriving and fruitful garden,” explains Sara Rubens, a certified gardening instructor and the creator of
Seed to Sanctuary
Its tiny, sugar-filled blooms draw helpful insects including hoverflies, ladybugs, and lacewings, aiding in the management of aphids and other pests. Additionally, these flowers entice pollinators like bees, enhancing production in crops such as tomatoes, squash, and strawberries.

Alyssum aids in safeguarding tomatoes near the ground level. Due to its close-to-the-ground growth habit, it serves as a natural mulch. This plant suppresses weed growth, retains soil dampness, and regulates soil temperature according to needs. Additionally, because it establishes itself rapidly from seeds,
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Alyssum Seed Packet
, you won’t have to wait long to experience its advantages. Additionally, she remarks, “The delicate flowers and pleasant aroma elevate the garden’s attractiveness.”

2. Basil

There are valid grounds for this.
grow basil and tomatoes simultaneously
“Basil is the ideal partner for tomatoes. It deters pests such as mosquitoes and aphids,” says Eduard Negodenko, a landscaping specialist and experienced gardener.
Avanti Landscaping
It may also aid in warding off tomato hornworms. Gardeners observe that tomatoes cultivated close to basil seem sweeter with richer hues, probably because of enhanced plant health and reduced pests. Additionally, basil flourishes under the same growing conditions as tomatoes—full sunlight, well-draining soil, and average watering—which makes their maintenance straightforward.

James S. Mastaler indicates that basil makes an effective companion plant for tomatoes since it does not heavily compete underground, flourishes under comparable growing conditions, and its blooms draw pollinators along with beneficial predatory wasps during latter parts of the season. He recommends planting it near your tomato plants in pots or elevated garden beds. Additionally, this pairing can easily stick in memory due to their complementary roles in culinary preparations, particularly when served together with fresh mozzarella. Consider trying
Homegrown Genovese Basil Seed
or plants from the nursery.

As both basil and tomatoes enjoy drinking leftover morning beverages, this pair of companion plants will be delighted with your presence.
repurpose tea bags
or
utilized coffee grounds for fertilization
Basil likes to consume both tea and coffee for sustenance, whereas tomato plants thrive with the addition of coffee grounds; however, these should be incorporated into compost initially. Similarly, tea bags can enhance plant growth, though they too should ideally be composted before use.

3. Nasturtium

Nasturtiums not only boast an array of vibrant hues ranging from soft gold to dark burgundy but also serve as excellent companions for tomatoes. According to plant care specialist Melvin Cubian, their flowers attract predatory wasps. These beneficial insects subsequently help control pests such as aphids that harm tomato plants by taking them hostage and laying eggs within them.
PlantIn
They likewise act as a barrier for those small creatures, ensuring your plant remains safe.

Nasturtium seeds are simple to plant. You can select particular hues or go for a blend, like the
Seeds Required Nasturtium Seeds Jewel Mix
Additionally, Eduard Negodenko remarks, “These plants grow quickly and expand, offering ground coverage that curbs weed growth and maintains stable soil temperatures.” Furthermore, incorporating the detail that their blooms draw bees and butterflies while deterring harmful pests like squash bugs and cucumber beetles—which can damage other vegetation—makes for an ideal combination.

4. Zinnia

A number of excellent companion plants for tomatoes not only enhance garden productivity but also add beauty with their vibrant presence. Among these, zinnias stand out due to their striking colors and appealing appearance. According to Sara Rubens, “These colorful flowers boast enduring blossoms that draw various pollinators—such as bees and butterflies—which boost both fruit and veggie production.” Additionally, she notes that zinnias can entice helpful predators like ladybugs and lacewings; these insects prey on harmful species such as aphids and whiteflies.

Zinnias can effectively manage the pests drawn to cucumbers and squash. Additionally, Rubens notes, “These flowers bring vivid colors and aesthetic appeal, enhancing the attractiveness and pleasure of your garden. They are simple to cultivate, flourish under direct sunlight, and produce blooms consistently, providing prolonged assistance for both crops and pollinators all season long.” Furthermore, zinnias reliably self-seed, which means purchasing a pack of seeds from an online source should serve you well.
NatureZ Edge Zinnia Seeds
If you’re in a hurry, you can go ahead and purchase them from the garden center.

5. Garlic

Given garlic’s potent aroma and taste, it isn’t surprising that it can also act as an effective pest repellent. According to Eduard Negodenko, “The powerful sulfur components in garlic obscure the smell of tomato plants, misleading pests such as spider mites, aphids, and even Japanese beetles.” Additionally, he notes, “ Garlic’s anti-fungal characteristics aid in reducing soil-based illnesses like powdery mildew and blight, issues commonly faced by tomato plants.”

Some experts believe that the benefits of using pests to fight against them are largely based on personal stories rather than solid evidence. However, extensive research has clearly shown that garlic aids in healthier growth for tomatoes. As Melvin Cubian points out, an expansive study carried out by Chinese agricultural researchers demonstrated that planting garlic rows alongside tomato rows enhances the accessibility of phosphorus. This implies that tomato plants can better absorb phosphorus, resulting in reduced requirements for fertilizers. To witness this impact firsthand, you might consider trying it yourself.
California Fresh Softneck Garlic Bulbs
However, you can simply purchase garlic bulbs from the store and plant each separate clove.

6. Thyme

James S. Mastaler states, “Thyme, which is a small, sunlight-adoring plant, serves as a great living ground cover for your tomato plants. This herb helps control weed growth, retains soil moisture, and features petite flowers that draw hoverflies—whose offspring feed naturally on aphids. Additionally, it enhances both the aesthetics and fragrance of your tomato patch.”

There are numerous varieties of thyme, ranging from woolly to lemon to Old English.
English Thyme Seed Packet
Will spread over multiple square feet if you wish to form a lush carpet with this attractive herb, which generally withstands the winter across various climates. For regions experiencing intense cold, consider potting them so they can be moved inside during colder months.

7. French Marigold

Marigolds make an attractive and practical companion for tomato plants. As Sara Rubens points out, certain types, especially French marigolds, generate substances that ward off nematodes in the ground; additionally, their fragrance deters aphids, whiteflies, and some beetle species. Furthermore, marigolds draw helpful insects such as ladybugs and hoverflies—these feed on common garden pests—and they also bring in pollinators that enhance harvests.

Marigolds provide both aesthetics and utility though. These flowers boast tightly clustered heads that are vividly colored, ranging from gold and orange to red and mixed patterns, blossoming from early summer until the first frost. For a particularly striking display, consider purchasing a mixture like this.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac Small Batch Marigold Seed Mix
.

8. Mint

Delightful with its sweet, spicy, and floral notes, mint complements many dishes, beverages, and sweets. However, this versatile herb also plays an important part in enhancing your tomato plants’ health. According to Melvin Cubian, one key benefit of using mint lies not just in its easy maintenance, but in its ability to repel pests—a boon for your garden’s prized tomatoes. “Once planted, your challenge will be managing its abundant foliage!” Fortunately, mint thrives under regular pruning, allowing you to gather it frequently without worry.

If you’re a seasoned gardener, you likely understand that mint requires some tough love; without it, it can rapidly become overwhelming. The most effective method is to grow mint in containers and position them close to your tomato plants, keeping an eye out for and eliminating any runners attempting to take root in the ground. You can readily propagate mint from seeds as well; feel free to give it a shot.
Premium Home Grown Common Mint Seeds
or
Home Grown Peppermint Seeds
for an extra-cool twist.

9. Parsley

If you believe that parsley should be used merely as a garnish atop completed meals, reconsider. As part of the carrot family, this herb excels when planted alongside tomatoes, shielding them from what Melvin Cubian refers to as “ferocious insect predators.” (Put up your hand if you suddenly feel somewhat anxious about tending to your garden.) Fortunately, according to him, the potent scent of parsley deters these unwanted creatures, thus safeguarding your tomato plants.

To achieve optimal results, allow parsley to bolt and produce flowers. These blooms draw hoverflies, which consume aphids. Since aphids are attracted to parsley, it can function as a trap crop—drawing problematic pests away from your main focus plant, tomatoes. Parsley readily germinates from seeds, making it an affordable choice for experimentation.
Plant Flat Leaf Parsley Seeds Directly
If that isn’t effective, you can alternatively purchase starter kits.

10. Calendula

James S. Mastaler states, “Calendulas are simple to cultivate and attract pollinators, offering both beauty and utility.” He continues, noting that their adhesive flowers help capture pests like aphids and thrips, enhancing biodiversity in your garden. “I frequently plant them alongside vegetables to maintain a continuous supply of nectar for beneficial insects,” he adds.

One of calendula’s top features includes its gentle antifungal qualities, essential oils that deter tomato hornworms, and its capacity to draw helpful predator insects. As Eduard Negodenko points out, “The vibrant, daisy-esque blooms of calendula last throughout many flowering seasons and consistently offer sustenance to these beneficial creatures.”

Although traditional calendula blossoms typically appear in shades of gold-orange or orange, they can be found in numerous colors including pink, red, white, salmon, and even bolder variations. Should your preference lean towards simpler options like orange and yellow, this could offer an easy choice for you.
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Calendula ‘Pacific Beauty’ Seed Packets
will do the trick.

11. Chives

Chives are quite a commonplace garden herb that many individuals underestimate. To put it simply, these plants are not just great for garnishing baked potatoes or adding flavor to chili; they are also excellent when planted alongside tomatoes.

According to Eduard Negodenko, chives are a small herb featuring a subtle onion aroma that keeps aphids, spider mites, and similar soft-bodied pests away from tomato leaves. These herbs take up little room and can coexist peacefully with tomatoes in the same pots or garden beds. Additionally, their lavender blooms draw pollinators, enhancing tomato yield. Furthermore, in numerous regions, chives regrow annually due to being perennials, requiring no further attention each season.

You can purchase chives at the garden center or included in a mixed variety pack.
SereniSeed Certified Organic Herbal Seed Packets
If you wish to broaden your perspectives, consider giving it a shot.
Garlic Chives Seed Packet
a version that adds an additional garlicky twist to the dish.

12. Dill

Home chefs and green-thumbed individuals don’t require additional motivation to cultivate dill. With its delicate, refreshing, subtly sweet, and flowery foliage, it’s more than enough incentive.
Make dill the ideal complement for your cooking.
For vibrant green salads, potatoes, meats, pickled vegetables, and even beverages. Still, if you’re seeking an extra incentive to grab a pack of
Home Grown Dill Seeds
Dill is an excellent herb to grow alongside tomatoes.

Sara Rubens mentions that Dill attracts bees along with beneficial predators like ladybugs and lacewings which assist in managing detrimental pests. Nevertheless, keep in mind that there’s a limit to how long the tomato-dill relationship lasts. As soon as dill begins to produce seeds, it consumes essential nutrients from the soil that tomatoes require for optimal growth. Thus, although you can certainly grow young dill close by, you ought to take out the plant after it goes to seed.

13. Borage

Red and blue create a beautiful combination, particularly during the peak of summer, as demonstrated by tomatoes and borage when planted side by side. According to Eduard Negodenko, “Borage stands out as an excellent companion plant often disregarded by numerous gardeners. It draws pollinators such as bees along with helpful predators including parasitic wasps and hoverflies, aiding in managing aphid numbers effectively.”

Moreover, he notes, borage features edible blossoms with a cucumber-like flavor that can enhance salads, sweets, or beverages. Additionally, borage is thought to boost soil quality by concentrating essential nutrients such as potassium and calcium, thereby benefiting adjacent tomato plants, he explains further. The plant’s fuzzy foliage also deters certain insects and helps ward off tomato hornworms. Therefore, there isn’t really any downside to picking up a pack of borage seeds.
Plant High-Quality Non-GMO Heritage Borage Seeds
And incorporate it into your garden next spring.

14. Sage

Sara Rubens mentions that Sage is a beneficial companion plant due to its potent aroma and ability to repel pests. The essential oils within sage act effectively against various garden insects including cabbage moths, carrot flies, and beetles, which makes it particularly advantageous when grown alongside vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and beans. On the other hand, since it draws both bees and predatory wasps during flowering season, planting sage close to tomatoes can also prove highly effective; this arrangement aids not only in promoting tomato pollination but also helps manage harmful insects.

Furthermore, sage is quite a laid-back plant. As Rubens explains, “Although it thrives best in well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight, sage requires minimal care and can flourish near many different types of plants.” Its compact size also allows for effortless integration into garden plots without overwhelming nearby vegetation. Additionally, its delightful aroma and robust taste add extra appeal as an herb.
indispensable cooking tool
, and using sage becomes an easy choice. You have the option to plant something like
White Sage Homegrown Seed
Purchase them directly or get sage starters from the nursery during spring or fall when discounts are common.

15. Lavender

Similar to numerous plants on this list, lavender aids in deterring whiteflies and spider mites. Additionally, its flowers draw helpful pollinators. When grown close to tomatoes, lavender does not vie for water since it has low moisture needs, and being closer to the ground than tomato plants, it avoids competing with them for sunlight as well.

James S. Mastaler emphasizes that effective companion planting focuses on fostering ecological resilience through design, rather than merely considering spatial arrangements. Achieving this involves maximizing plant variety—such as differing flower forms, root lengths, blooming periods, and habitat types—which attracts a wider array of insects and enhances the entire system’s health. Lavender, due to these complementary attributes, fits well into such an integrated environment. According to Mastaler, adopting a perspective centered around “plant communities” instead of individual pairs promotes sturdier plants and a livelier garden.

Although seeds may be more economical at times, they aren’t necessarily the most straightforward method for cultivating herbs, flowers, or various plants. Lavender has a reputation for being tricky when sprouting from seed, yet purchasing it as a young plant is incredibly simple, making the effort of using seeds seem hardly worthwhile. Should you lack access to a nearby garden center, this becomes even more relevant.
locate fruit and vegetable plants on the web
easily, and this applies to herbs too.

Common Companion Planting Mistakes

Companion planting offers an excellent method for optimizing your gardening area and enhancing plant health, particularly for tomatoes. Nonetheless, this approach isn’t a license to indiscriminately mix different plants together—there are guidelines to follow. As James S. Mastaler points out, one frequent error is assuming that specific pairings provide miraculous advantages. “Although companion planting can indeed be beneficial,” he explains, “no combination can substitute for well-prepared soil, adequate spacing, and diligent maintenance.” He also cautions against overcrowding: placing too many companions around your tomato plants could promote fungal growth, especially as they mature and humidity increases towards the end of the growing season.

Furthermore, not all vegetables pair well with tomatoes. Mastaler recommends avoiding planting corn and potatoes nearby as these crops have high nutrient demands and could lead to competition for resources. Additionally, according to John Coykendall, you should steer clear of growing fennel, brassicas, or plants from the black walnut family close to your tomato plants.

Melvin Cubian emphasizes another crucial guideline: avoid placing plants from the same family together. He explains, “Due to their nearly identical genetic makeup, they become prime targets for pests and diseases such as bacterial wilt and fruit worms.” He warns that infestation could spread rapidly overnight under these conditions. Additionally, members of the same plant family often require large amounts of similar nutrients, leading to competition within the soil. To prevent issues, opt for less competitive and problem-free varieties like those mentioned earlier; doing so ensures better health for your tomato plants.

Read the
original article on newsinpo.space
.