When it comes to gardening, companion planting is an important consideration. Some plants thrive when grown together, while others can hinder each other’s growth. If you’re planning to grow tomatoes, there are certain companion plants you should avoid. Here are seven companion plants that you should never grow with tomatoes and the reasons behind it.
Corn
Tomatoes and corn are both heavy feeders and compete for nutrients in the soil, leading to stunted growth and lower yields for both crops. It’s best to plant them separately to ensure they both thrive.
Potatoes
Both tomatoes and potatoes are susceptible to similar diseases like late blight. Growing them together increases the risk of widespread infection. To prevent the spread of diseases, it’s advisable to keep these plants separate.
Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower)
Brassicas release compounds that inhibit tomato growth and can stunt their development. Therefore, it’s recommended that they be planted separately to ensure optimal growth for both plants.
Fennel
Fennel produces chemicals that can negatively affect the flavor of tomatoes and inhibit their growth. To avoid any adverse effects, it’s best to keep fennel away from tomato plants.
Walnuts
Walnut trees release juglone, a toxin harmful to many plants, including tomatoes. This toxin inhibits tomato growth and causes wilting. To prevent any negative effects, it’s important to avoid planting tomatoes near walnut trees.
Dill
Dill attracts tomato hornworms, a common pest that can decimate tomato plants if left unchecked. To protect your tomato plants, it’s best to keep dill away from them.
Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi competes with tomatoes for nutrients and space, leading to reduced yields for both crops. To ensure optimal growth for both plants, it’s recommended to plant them separately.
By being mindful of these companion plants to avoid, you can ensure the healthy growth and abundant yield of your tomato plants. Remember to plan your garden layout carefully to create a harmonious environment for all your plants. Happy gardening!