Companions for Tomatoes: Plants That Thrive Together

Are you a tomato gardener looking to boost your yields and improve the health of your plants? One way to do this is by planting them alongside compatible plants that can help repel pests, fix nitrogen in the soil, or provide shade. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share our top picks for plants that thrive alongside tomatoes, along with tips on how to care for them and maximize your harvest.

Why Companion Planting Matters

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together in a way that benefits both species. This can be achieved through a variety of mechanisms, such as repelling pests, attracting pollinators, or improving soil health. By choosing the right companions for your tomatoes, you can create a more diverse and resilient garden ecosystem that supports the health and productivity of all your crops.

The Best Companions for Tomatoes

Basil

Basil is one of the most popular companion plants for tomatoes, and for good reason. Not only does it repel harmful insects like aphids and whiteflies, but its aromatic leaves can also improve the flavor of your tomatoes when planted nearby. Try planting basil seeds in the same hole as your tomato seedlings, or interplant them throughout your garden.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another great choice for repelling common tomato pests like nematodes and hornworms. They also produce chemicals that can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi in the soil. For best results, plant marigolds around the perimeter of your tomato patch or in between rows.

Garlic

If you're dealing with a heavy infestation of spider mites or other pests, garlic can be a lifesaver. This pungent herb contains sulfur compounds that repel many common garden pests, and can also improve the flavor of your tomatoes when planted nearby. Try planting garlic cloves around the base of your tomato plants, or in between rows.

Peppers

Peppers and tomatoes are both members of the nightshade family, which means they have similar growing requirements and can support each other's growth. Peppers can also help repel aphids and other pests that can damage your tomato plants. Try planting peppers alongside your tomatoes, either in separate rows or in the same bed.

Carrots

Carrots are a great choice for interplanting with tomatoes, as they have shallow roots that won't compete with your tomato plants for nutrients. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pests like aphids and thrips. Try sowing carrot seeds directly into the soil around your tomato plants, or in between rows.

Onions

Onions are another great option for repelling pests like aphids and spider mites. They also contain sulfur compounds that can deter diseases like fusarium wilt and powdery mildew. For best results, plant onion sets or transplants around the perimeter of your tomato patch or in between rows.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a colorful and edible companion plant that can help repel aphids, whiteflies, and other pests. They also produce compounds that can improve the flavor of your tomatoes and other crops. Try planting nasturtium seeds directly into the soil around your tomato plants, or in between rows.

Borage

Borage is a hardy annual herb that attracts beneficial insects like bees and parasitic wasps, which can help control pests like tomato fruitworms and hornworms. It also contains compounds that can improve soil health by fixing nitrogen and increasing moisture retention. Try planting borage seeds directly into the soil around your tomato plants, or in between rows.

Beans

Beans are a popular choice for interplanting with tomatoes, as they fix nitrogen in the soil and can provide shade to the base of your tomato plants. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can increase your tomato yields. Try planting bush beans or pole beans around your tomato plants, either in separate rows or in the same bed.

Lettuce

Lettuce is a fast-growing and shade-tolerant crop that can be planted alongside your tomatoes to provide some relief from the hot sun. It also has shallow roots that won't compete with your tomato plants for nutrients. Try sowing lettuce seeds directly into the soil around your tomato plants, or in between rows.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are a vining crop that can be trellised alongside your tomato plants to save space and maximize yields. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can increase your tomato yields. Try planting cucumber seeds directly into the soil around your tomato plants, or on a trellis next to them.

Zinnias

Zinnias are a colorful and easy-to-grow flower that can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pests like aphids and thrips. They also add beauty and diversity to your garden. Try planting zinnia seeds directly into the soil around your tomato plants, or in between rows.

Tips for Successful Companion Planting

Plant in the Right Spacing

When planting companion plants with tomatoes, it's important to give each species enough space to grow and thrive. Make sure to follow the recommended spacing guidelines for each crop, and avoid overcrowding your garden.

Choose Companions That Have Similar Growing Requirements

To ensure that your companion plants thrive alongside your tomatoes, choose species that have similar growing requirements for light, water, and soil quality. For example, if you're growing tomatoes in full sun, choose companions that also prefer sunny conditions.

Rotate Your Crops

To prevent the buildup of soil-borne diseases and pests, it's important to rotate your crops each year. This means planting different families of crops in different areas of your garden, or using a three-year rotation plan to ensure that no crop is grown in the same spot more than once every three years.

Use Natural Pest Control Methods

While companion planting can help repel some pests, it's important to have a backup plan in case of infestations. Consider using natural pest control methods like insecticidal soap, neem oil, or beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I plant tomatoes with other nightshade vegetables?

Yes, you can plant tomatoes with other nightshade vegetables like peppers, eggplants, and potatoes. They have similar growing requirements and can support each other's growth.

Q: Do companion plants need to be planted at the same time as tomatoes?

No, you can plant companion plants at any time during the growing season. However, it's best to avoid planting them too close to harvest time, as they may compete with your tomato plants for nutrients and water.

Q: Can I plant herbs with my tomatoes?

Yes, many herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme make great companion plants for tomatoes. They can repel pests and improve flavor when planted nearby.

Q: Will companion planting guarantee that my tomatoes are pest-free?

No, companion planting is just one tool in your pest management toolbox. While it can help reduce pest pressure, it's important to use other methods like crop rotation, natural pest control, and good hygiene practices to keep your plants healthy.

Q: Is companion planting only useful for organic gardeners?

No, companion planting can be beneficial for all types of gardeners, whether you use organic or conventional methods. It's a natural and effective way to support the health and productivity of your crops.


Companion planting is a simple and effective way to support the health and productivity of your tomato plants. By choosing the right companions, you can create a more diverse and resilient garden ecosystem that benefits all your crops. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, there's no better time to try out companion planting than this growing season.