When it comes to planting tomatoes, there are certain plants that you should avoid planting nearby. This is because some plants can have negative effects on the growth and health of tomatoes. Here are some plants that are not recommended to be planted next to tomatoes:
1. Potatoes: Tomatoes and potatoes belong to the same plant family, Solanaceae. Planting them together increases the risk of spreading diseases and pests that affect both plants. For example, both tomatoes and potatoes are susceptible to late blight, a fungal disease that can quickly destroy the entire crop.
2. Fennel: Fennel is known to inhibit the growth of many other plants, including tomatoes. It releases chemicals that can stunt the growth of nearby plants, so it’s best to keep them separate.
3. Cabbage and other brassicas: Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and other brassicas can compete with tomatoes for nutrients in the soil. Additionally, brassicas are susceptible to similar pests and diseases as tomatoes, so planting them together can increase the risk of infestations.
4. Corn: Corn is a heavy feeder that requires a lot of nitrogen from the soil. Planting it near tomatoes can result in competition for nutrients, leading to stunted growth and reduced yields for both plants.
5. Kohlrabi: Like cabbage and other brassicas, kohlrabi can compete with tomatoes for nutrients. It is best to keep them separate to ensure that both plants thrive.
6. Walnuts: If you have walnut trees in your garden, it’s important to keep them away from tomatoes. Walnut trees release a chemical called juglone, which is toxic to many plants, including tomatoes. Planting tomatoes near walnut trees can result in wilting, yellowing, and overall poor growth.
7. Dill: While dill can attract beneficial insects, it is not recommended to plant it near tomatoes. Dill can cross-pollinate with tomatoes, resulting in undesirable flavors and affecting the quality of the tomatoes.
8. Ketchup and paste tomatoes: If you are growing different varieties of tomatoes, it’s best to avoid planting ketchup and paste tomatoes near other types. This is because ketchup and paste tomatoes can cross-pollinate with other varieties, leading to inconsistent flavors and characteristics.
9. Peppers: While peppers and tomatoes can be grown together in some cases, it’s important to consider their different growth habits. Peppers tend to grow taller and bushier, which can shade out tomatoes and affect their growth. It’s best to provide enough space between them to ensure adequate sunlight and airflow.
10. Nasturtiums: While nasturtiums are often recommended as companion plants for many vegetables, including tomatoes, they can sometimes attract pests like aphids. If your tomato plants are already prone to aphid infestations, it’s best to keep nasturtiums away to prevent further damage.
These are just some of the plants that are not recommended to be planted next to tomatoes. It’s always a good idea to research the specific needs and compatibility of plants before planning your garden to ensure optimal growth and health for all your plants.
