10 Plants That Thrive Alongside Tomatoes

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables in home gardens across the world. They are easy to grow and produce abundant yields. However, they also have some unique requirements when it comes to growing conditions. One way to ensure your tomato plants thrive is to plant them alongside other compatible plants. In this post, we'll take a look at 10 different plants that grow well with tomatoes, as well as the benefits they provide.

Companion Planting for Tomatoes

1. Basil

Basil is a popular herb that not only tastes great but also provides numerous benefits to tomato plants. It repels harmful insects such as thrips, whiteflies, and aphids, while also attracting beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies. Additionally, basil can improve the flavor of your tomatoes when grown together.

Growing Tip: Plant basil around the base of your tomato plants or in containers nearby.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another excellent companion plant for tomatoes. They release a chemical called alpha-terthienyl, which repels root-knot nematodes - pests that can damage tomato roots. The bright flowers of marigolds also attract pollinators and beneficial insects, making them a valuable addition to any garden.

Growing Tip: Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your tomato bed.

3. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a colorful, edible flower that can add beauty and flavor to your garden. They are known to repel aphids, whiteflies, and other pests that can damage your tomato plants. Nasturtiums also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which feed on harmful pests.

Growing Tip: Plant nasturtiums around the base of your tomato plants or in a nearby container.

4. Carrots

Carrots are another great companion plant for tomatoes. They help to aerate the soil around the roots of your tomato plants, which can improve water and nutrient uptake. Additionally, they can help to repel harmful nematodes and other pests that can damage your tomato plants.

Growing Tip: Plant carrots alongside your tomato plants, with the carrot seeds sown around 1 inch apart.

5. Chives

Chives are a member of the onion family, and they have a similar effect on pests as their cousins. They can repel aphids, spider mites, and other pests that can damage your tomato plants. Additionally, chives are rich in nutrients like potassium and sulfur, which can help to improve the flavor and health of your tomato plants.

Growing Tip: Plant chives around the perimeter of your tomato bed or in containers nearby.

6. Borage

Borage is a beautiful flowering plant that has numerous benefits for tomato plants. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, while also repelling pests like tomato hornworms and cabbage worms. Additionally, borage has deep roots that can help to break up compacted soil, improving the growing conditions for your tomato plants.

Growing Tip: Plant borage around the perimeter of your tomato bed or in a nearby container.

7. Parsley

Parsley is an herb that is rich in nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, which can help to improve the growth and flavor of your tomato plants. Additionally, it attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies, which feed on harmful pests like aphids and mites.

Growing Tip: Plant parsley around the base of your tomato plants or in containers nearby.

8. Garlic

Garlic is a powerful natural pesticide that can help to repel pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Additionally, it has antifungal properties that can protect your tomato plants from diseases like blight and mildew.

Growing Tip: Plant garlic around the perimeter of your tomato bed or in nearby containers.

9. Peppers

Peppers are another member of the nightshade family, like tomatoes, and they have similar growing requirements. By planting peppers alongside your tomato plants, you can create a mutually beneficial environment where both plants thrive. Additionally, peppers can help to repel pests like aphids and spider mites.

Growing Tip: Plant peppers around the perimeter of your tomato bed or in containers nearby.

10. Spinach

Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is rich in nutrients like calcium and magnesium, which can help to improve the health and productivity of your tomato plants. Additionally, spinach can help to attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which feed on harmful pests.

Growing Tip: Plant spinach around the base of your tomato plants or in containers nearby.

FAQs:

1. What is companion planting?

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together that provide mutual benefits to each other. This can include pest control, nutrient uptake, and pollination.

2. Why is basil a good companion plant for tomatoes?

Basil is a good companion plant for tomatoes because it repels harmful insects like aphids and attracts beneficial pollinators like bees. Additionally, it can improve the flavor of your tomatoes when grown together.

3. How do I plant marigolds with my tomatoes?

Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your tomato bed to repel nematodes and other pests. Alternatively, you can plant them in containers nearby.

4. Can I grow chives indoors?

Yes, you can grow chives indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights.

5. How far apart should I plant carrots from my tomato plants?

Plant carrot seeds around 1 inch apart from your tomato plants.



In there are many different plants that can thrive alongside tomatoes. By planting these companion plants, you can create a healthier, more productive garden while reducing the need for harmful pesticides and fertilizers. Whether you choose to plant basil, marigolds, or any other plant on this list, you're sure to see the benefits in no time.