Why You Should Plant Marigolds With Your Tomato Plants
June 14, 2023
source: Tomato Bible
Are you tired of dealing with pests and diseases in your tomato garden? Do you want to enhance the health and growth of your precious tomato plants? Look no further! We have a simple and effective solution for you: plant marigolds alongside your tomatoes. Yes, you read it right – marigolds and tomatoes make an incredible team in your garden. In this article, we’ll explore the wonders of companion planting, the benefits of marigolds for your garden, and the types of marigolds you can choose from. So, let’s dive in and discover why planting marigolds with your tomato plants is a game-changer!
Companion Planting:
Companion planting is a gardening technique where different plants are grown together to maximize their potential and benefit each other. By strategically pairing compatible plants, you can create a harmonious garden ecosystem that improves soil health, repels pests, attracts beneficial insects, and promotes higher yields.
Planting Marigolds Close to Tomatoes:
The answer is a resounding “yes”! Marigolds and tomatoes are perfect companions. Marigolds act as natural pest repellents, protecting your tomato plants from harmful insects and nematodes. They emit a scent that repels pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Additionally, marigolds also suppress weeds, allowing your tomato plants to thrive without competition.
Marigolds are excellent companion plants for tomatoes. Their strong aroma acts as a natural deterrent for pests like aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes that can harm your tomato plants. By planting marigolds alongside your tomatoes, you create a powerful barrier that helps keep these pests at bay, allowing your tomatoes to flourish.
Plants That Grow Well with Marigolds:
Marigolds are not just great companions for tomatoes; they get along well with many other plants too. Some excellent companions for marigolds include basil, cucumbers, beans, and roses. Planting these alongside marigolds can enhance the health and vigor of all the plants involved, creating a harmonious garden environment.
Why Marigolds Are Good for the Garden:
Marigolds offer numerous benefits to your garden. Firstly, their vibrant colors and beautiful flowers add a splash of cheerfulness and beauty to your vegetable patch. Secondly, marigolds attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the pollination process and promoting better fruit set in your tomatoes. Lastly, marigolds release a chemical into the soil that helps suppress harmful nematodes, which can damage the roots of your plants. It’s like having a natural defense system right in your garden!
Top Reasons to Grow Marigolds with Tomato Plants:
Natural Pest Control: Marigolds emit a strong fragrance that repels pests, keeping your tomato plants safe from aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes.
Improved Soil Health: Marigolds release chemicals that suppress harmful nematodes and improve the overall health of the soil.
Increased Pollination: The bright colors and appealing scent of marigolds attract pollinators, resulting in better fruit set and higher yields for your tomatoes.
Weed Suppression: Marigolds act as a natural weed suppressant, reducing competition for nutrients and allowing your tomato plants to grow without hindrance.
Aesthetically Pleasing: Marigolds’ vibrant colors and beautiful flowers add visual appeal to your garden, creating a delightful and cheerful atmosphere.
Types of Marigolds:
Marigolds come in various types, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular marigold varieties include French marigolds, African marigolds, and signet marigolds. French marigolds are compact and perfect for border planting, while African marigolds are known for their large and showy blooms. Signet marigolds are smaller in size and ideal for containers or edging. Choose the type that suits your garden’s style and enjoy the benefits they bring.
How to Grow Marigolds:
Growing marigolds is a breeze, even for beginners. They love sunlight and need soil that drains well. Start by sowing the seeds indoors a few weeks before the last frost date, or directly sow them in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. Keep the soil always damp until the seedlings appear. Once they reach a suitable size, transplant them to their designated spots, ensuring proper spacing between plants. Regular watering, occasional deadheading, and removing spent blooms will keep your marigolds healthy and blooming throughout the season.
Other Companion Plants That Benefit Tomatoes:
While marigolds are excellent companions for tomatoes, there are other plants that can also contribute to their well-being. Consider planting herbs like basil and parsley near your tomatoes to repel pests and enhance flavor. Additionally, onions, garlic, and chives can deter pests and help suppress fungal diseases. Nasturtiums are another great choice as their presence can repel aphids and attract beneficial insects.
Planting marigolds with your tomato plants is a fantastic strategy to boost their growth, health, and productivity. These beautiful flowers not only add visual appeal to your garden but also act as natural pest repellents, weed suppressants, and soil enhancers. With their delightful scent and vibrant colors, marigolds attract pollinators and create a thriving ecosystem for your tomatoes. So why wait? Embrace the wonders of companion planting and witness the remarkable benefits of growing marigolds alongside your beloved tomato plants. Happy gardening!