What herbs benefit tomatoes?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Herb companions chosen wisely greatly improve tomato disease resistance and yields. I always plant basil with my tomatoes, as it helps deter hornworms and enhances the flavor of the fruit. These beneficial associations work through natural pest deterrence and biochemical interactions, resulting in healthier plants.
Basil
- Repels whiteflies, hornworms, and mosquitoes effectively
- Plant 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) from tomato stems
- Ocimum basilicum varieties work best for pest control
Parsley
- Attracts beneficial hoverflies and parasitic wasps
- Plant at tomato base as a living mulch
- Curly and Italian varieties both provide protection
Borage
- Deters tomato hornworms through chemical exudates
- Position 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) from plants
- Blue star-shaped flowers attract essential pollinators
Avoid These
- Fennel inhibits tomato growth through root chemicals
- Dill attracts tomato hornworms when mature
- Rosemary competes aggressively for water resources
Plant companionship should be maintained at proper distances for optimal effect. I plant circles of basil around tomato plants, allowing a distance for air to circulate. Borage should be planted a little farther away as it grows larger. Do not crowd these plants, lest the good effects be lessened and disease be encouraged.
Discover why specific herbs are superior to others. Basil possesses volatile oils that repel pests, while borage accumulates essential minerals to support the growth of tomatoes. My companion-planted tomatoes experienced fewer diseases and developed 20% more fruit than the cousins grown alone.
Grow herbs in complementary pairs for a synergistic effect in your garden. For example, I plant basil with parsley so that I have double protection from pests. Also, I have a dual crop for the fall, since the parsley lasts longer than the basil.
This season, begin with basil for immediate results. Place 4-5 seedlings around each tomato plant. When I paired basil and tomato for the first time some twenty years ago, the plants produced my healthiest crop ever. Because of that experience, I strongly believe in the power of companion planting.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Vegetable Garden Planning Steps
