The Surprising Benefits of Planting Basil Next to Tomatoes

If you've been gardening for any period of time, you most likely have heard of companion planting. Though there are many companions, there are two plants that just seem to be made for each other: Tomatoes and Basil. This pair has so many benefits, from preventing pests to using them to make culinary masterpieces!

Pest Repellent Properties

Nothing is more frustrating than spending so much time and effort growing tomatoes, to only feed pests. Especially the notorious tomato hornworm. But you need not use chemical detorants. Instead, plant basil next to your tomatoes, and detour pests with basil's powerful scent! Though tomatoes do have a strong scent, basil's scent is even stronger! This confuses the pest keeping them away from your precious, homegrown tomatoes.

Attracting Beneficial Insects

Basil does not only detour pests, it actually attracts beneficial insects, such as the beloved ladybug, who feeds on pests like aphids. In addition, when basil is in the flowering stage, attracts all types of pollinators, increacing the pollination of your tomatoes, therefore boosting your harvest. It sounds too good to be true!

Maximizing Space

For most gardeners, planting real-estate is a precious thing. Trying to fit everything in, without overcrowding takes planning. But there is no need to plant your basil and tomatoes in two different areas, plant them in the same bed. And if you want to make a homemade sauce, you can harvest them together!

Practical Tips for Planting Basil and Tomatoes Together

To enjoy the many benefits of planting basil next to tomatoes, consider these practical recommendations:

• Select the Right Basil Variety: Different basil varieties grow to different heights and shapes. Choose a type that matches your tomato plants in size and growth pattern.

  
  

• Maintain Adequate Spacing: Give both plants ample room for growth. A good rule of thumb is to plant basil about a foot from your tomato plants. This separation helps avoid competition for nutrients.

  
  

• Water Wisely: Both plants prefer consistent moisture. Regularly check the soil's dampness to avoid overwatering, which can damage roots.

  
  

• Add a Layer of Mulch: Applying mulch around both plants helps maintain soil moisture and suppresses weeds. As the mulch breaks down, it also enriches the soil.

  
  

• Use Organic Fertilizers: Provide nutrients to both plants with organic fertilizers. They support healthy growth without harming the environment.

  
  

Harvesting Tips

When it's time to harvest your basil and tomatoes, here are a few tips:

• Basil: Regularly harvest basil leaves to encourage bushier growth. Continually pluck off the flower buds to keep your basil producing.

  
  

• Tomatoes: Pick tomatoes at about 70% ripeness, and place them in a sunny location in your house. This will allow the tomato to fully ripen in an area that pests cant get to.

  
  

Final Thoughts

There are so many more benefits to growing basil and tomatoes together. But for the sake of the length of this article, I will leave it with those.

For those eager to enhance their gardening practices, integrating basil with tomatoes can lead to a bountiful harvest filled with vibrant flavors. By recognizing and leveraging the relationship between these two remarkable plants, gardeners can create a thriving garden ecosystem, producing both beauty and abundance.

Happy Gardening!