Tomatoes are beloved in the garden, but not all plants make the best neighbors for these vibrant red fruits. While companion planting can enhance growth and deter pests, it’s crucial to know which plants may cause more harm than good when grown alongside tomatoes. Here are seven companion plants you should consider keeping at a distance to ensure your tomato patch thrives.
1. Brassicas: Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Kale
While brassicas like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and kale may seem like they could be tomato’s garden companions, they share common diseases such as early and late blight. Planting them close together can lead to the spread of these diseases, with both crops competing for essential nutrients in the soil.
2. Potatoes: Nightshade Family Companions
Despite their familial ties as nightshades, tomatoes and potatoes should maintain some distance in the garden. Both are susceptible to diseases like blight and potato scab. Planting them in close proximity increases the risk of these issues affecting both crops.
3. Eggplant: Nightshade Overlaps
While eggplants and tomatoes may look aesthetically pleasing side by side, they share vulnerabilities to similar diseases as nightshades. Additionally, eggplants can attract the Colorado potato beetle, a pest harmful to both plants.
4. Fennel: Growth-Inhibiting Herb
The feathery herb fennel emits a chemical that can stunt the growth of tomato plants. To ensure optimal growth for your tomatoes, it’s advisable to maintain a considerable distance between fennel and your tomato patch.
5. Dill: Questionable Pest-Repellent Claims
Despite some claims that dill acts as a companion plant for tomatoes due to its supposed pest-repelling properties, research suggests the opposite. Consider keeping dill away from your tomatoes to avoid any potential negative effects.
6. Corn: Differing Watering Needs
While corn and tomatoes may evoke thoughts of a classic summer pairing, their differing watering needs can pose challenges. Corn requires frequent, deep watering, potentially leading to overwatering for tomatoes and increasing the risk of root rot.
7. Walnuts: Juglone-Producing Trees
The majestic walnut tree may not be the ideal neighbor for tomatoes. Walnuts release juglone, a chemical compound inhibiting the growth of many plants, including tomatoes. If you have a walnut tree, it’s advisable to plant tomatoes far away from its root zone.