Gardeners looking to enhance their tomato harvest are being urged to consider companion planting, a technique endorsed by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). By growing certain plants alongside tomatoes, growers can repel pests, improve flavour, and increase yields.
According to an expert at Obsessed Lawns, basil, marigolds, and nasturtiums are ideal companions. Basil is known to enhance the taste of tomatoes, while nasturtiums help deter whiteflies and aphids, common summer pests. Marigolds also contribute to pest control.
The RHS explains that companion planting can confuse pests or act as a decoy, and some plants provide food for natural predators. Other beneficial neighbours include peppers, spinach, lettuce, and carrots. Parsley is said to give increased vigour to tomatoes, according to the RHS.
Gardeners who choose not to use companion plants should regularly check for disease or opt for resistant varieties like Crimson Crush. Proper care, such as pinching side shoots to direct growth to the main plant, is also essential to avoid leggy, fruitless plants.
