Did you know that planting basil together with your tomato plants this year can be one of the best ways to grow healthier and tastier tomatoes – and even keep pests away too?
Tomatoes and basil go together in the kitchen like bread and butter. But as it turns out, not only do these two plants complement each other when making flavorful dishes and appetizers, they also happen to work well together in the garden – all in a way that makes growing them both easier and more productive!
When it comes to companion planting in the vegetable garden, it really is hard to beat the relationship basil and tomatoes have when they grow near or with one another. Here is a look at just how well the two go together, along with a few great ways to plant them together this year in your garden or raised beds.
The Perfect Garden Pair – Why Basil and Tomatoes Thrive When You Plant Them Together
How Basil Helps Tomato Plants
Basil is beloved for its rich, fragrant aroma, which makes it a staple in all kinds of wondrous dishes. Whether freshly picked or dried, its scent is unmistakable and inviting. But that same strong fragrance does more than just delight the senses. It also happens to serve as a great natural deterrent for unwanted pests. Especially ones that enjoy attacking tomato plants.
Many common tomato pests, including aphids and whiteflies are put off by basil’s intense aroma. While we may find its scent pleasant, these insects are repelled by it, making basil a great companion for tomato plants, which are often vulnerable to pest infestations.
By simply planting basil nearby, you can help create a natural barrier that discourages pests from feasting on your tomatoes. And as an added bonus – basil also happen to repel mosquitoes too. Which means you can work in your garden without worry of their painful bites as well! See our article: How To Use Companion Planting To Grow A Better Garden.
Even More Reasons To Companion Plant
Basil also works very well as a companion plant for tomatoes because it can act as a living mulch. The compact nature of basil plants provides a layer of ground cover that helps keep moisture levels balanced in the soil while also suppressing weed growth.
But here’s the good news, as it does so, it takes little in the way of nutrients from the soil. And that works very well for tomatoes as they are heavy feeders. But it doesn’t end there – many also believe when basil grows near tomato plants – it also improves the flavor of the tomatoes it produces.
Last but not least – as you will see below, it couldn’t be easier to plant the two together. In fact, there is no need to even grow or buy your own transplants – as basil grows fast and easy via seed.
How To Plant Basil & Tomatoes Together
Planting basil and tomatoes together is surprisingly simple. Basil thrives in the same growing conditions as tomatoes. It needs plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular watering – just like tomato plants. Because of this, they are naturally well-suited to being planted side by side.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to grow basil alongside tomatoes is by planting basil seeds directly in the garden around your tomato transplants. While you can certainly use basil seedlings, there’s really no need since basil grows quickly and easily from seed.
In fact, starting basil from seed is not only more affordable, but the plants tend to establish themselves faster and grow more vigorously than transplants.
When it comes to choosing a variety, you have plenty of options. Traditional sweet basil is a favorite, but you can also try Italian basil, purple basil, or other unique varieties. Affiliate Link: Sow Right Seeds – Genovese Sweet Basil Seeds
No matter which type you choose, it’s important to wait until the soil temperature is at least 60º Fahrenheit before planting basil seeds outdoors. Conveniently, this is the same ideal temperature for transplanting tomatoes, so you can plant them at the same time.
Basil seeds typically sprout within a week to ten days. But if the soil is warm, you might see germination happen even sooner. In just three to four weeks, you’ll be able to start harvesting tender baby basil leaves, making basil an early-yielding crop that you can enjoy before your tomatoes even start producing fruit.
How Much Basil Is Enough?
For tomato plants, a few basil plants nearby will be enough to take advantage of their natural companion benefits. When planting seeds, aim to sow them about a foot away from the base of your tomato plant.
Simply drop four to five seeds in the soil around each plant and lightly cover them. As with any seed crop, always water thoroughly to help them settle in. As the seedlings grow, thin them to two to three per plant.
Even if you’re short on garden space, you can still grow basil and tomatoes together in containers and enjoy many of the same benefits. While basil and tomatoes thrive when planted in the same garden bed, they can also complement each other when placed in separate pots.
Keeping potted basil near your tomato plants can still help repel pests, even though they won’t share soil and nutrients beneath the surface.
Growing In Containers
If you’re growing tomatoes in containers, another great option is to plant basil directly in the same pot. Since both plants have similar sunlight and watering needs, they can coexist well – just be mindful not to overcrowd them. For best results, limit each tomato container to a single basil plant. This will ensure both have enough room to grow and access nutrients.
To plant basil in the same container as your tomatoes, sprinkle a few seeds near the edges of the pot rather than right next to the tomato stem. Once they sprout and grow a few inches tall, thin them out so only the strongest plant remains. This will give the basil enough space to develop without competing with the tomato plant.
Here is to growing basil together this year with your tomatoes. And – to enjoying all of the benefits that come along with it! Happy Gardening – Jim & Mary.
Old World Garden
Jim and Mary Competti have been writing gardening, DIY and recipe articles and books for over 15 years from their 46 acre Ohio farm. The two are frequent speakers on all things gardening and love to travel in their spare time.
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