Not sure what to plant in your garden? Tomatoes are a great choice for early summer because they love the heat and sunshine at this time of year. (Plus, it's the perfect excuse to try Ree's mouthwatering grilled tomato recipe that steals the show at every BBQ.)
To help your tomatoes really thrive, though, they’ll need a little company—and that’s where companion planting comes in. “A companion plant is a plant that offers benefits for those around it,”says Rachel McClure, master gardener coordinator for the extension program in Washoe County, Nevada. “Most things in our natural world thrive better with community. That holds true for plants as well.”
Below, there are 15 great companion plants to help your tomatoes grow their best. Whether they're keeping pests in check, bringing in pollinators, or making smarter use of your garden space, these tomato-friendly picks will make a big difference in your harvest.
1. Basil
Basil and tomatoes are a tasty pair in the kitchen—but did you know they’re great as garden buddies, too? Basil has been shown to improve tomato growth by increasing root development and repelling common pests like aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms.
2. Borage
Borage is known for attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other helpful bugs that boost tomato production. It’s also believed to make tomato plants stronger and healthier by adding trace minerals to the soil and reducing stress on the plants.
3. Asparagus
Asparagus gives off a compound that protects tomatoes from root-knot nematodes. And since it grows deep while tomatoes stay shallow, they won’t get in each other’s way.
4. Carrots
Because they grow underground, carrots can help break up the soil around tomato roots, making it easier for them to spread out. Just leave a little space between the two so neither plant feels crowded.
5. Garlic
Garlic’s strong scent drives away common tomato pests like aphids and spider mites. It also contains natural compounds that may help prevent disease.
6. Chives
Chives help protect tomatoes from aphids and fungal problems. And when they bloom, their pretty purple flowers also attract pollinators!
7. Nasturtiums
These colorful flowers act as a natural shield, luring pests like aphids and whiteflies away from your tomatoes. They also make great ground cover and help keep the soil moist.
8. Cilantro
If you let one or two cilantro plants flower, they’ll attract pollinators like hoverflies and parasitic wasps that like to snack on tomato pests. Plus, you still get to harvest the leaves for cooking.
9. Parsley
Parsley attracts beneficial bugs that go after aphids and hornworms. Its small size makes it easy to plant around your tomatoes, too. Just like with cilantro, let a few plants go to flower to get the full benefit.
10. Oregano
Oregano smells strong to us—and even stronger to garden pests. It also spreads low and wide, helping to block weeds and cover the soil.
11. Lettuce
Lettuce loves the shade of taller tomato plants and helps keep the soil cool and moist. It’s an easy way to make your garden space work harder.
12. Marigolds
Marigolds are famous for chasing away nematodes and other unwanted bugs with their scent. Their bright blooms also pull in pollinators and brighten up your beds.
13. Onions
Onions have a sharp smell that keeps aphids, thrips, and mites away. Plus, they don’t need much room, so they’re easy to sneak in around tomato plants.
14. Spinach
Spinach loves the cooler ground under tomato plants and helps block out weeds. Since it grows fast, you can harvest it early in the season.
15. Dill
Dill attracts ladybugs and other helpful insects that feast on tomato pests. Just give it a little space—it can get tall and take over if you’re not careful.
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
