When most people think about planting flowers with their tomato plants, they think of petunias or maybe some other type of taller flower. But did you know that companion planting marigolds with your tomato plants can actually be beneficial for both? Companion planting is a great way to naturally deter pests, improve soil health, and even increase yields.

Here are six reasons why you should consider companion planting marigolds with your tomatoes.

Natural Pest Deterrent

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When it comes to companion planting, there are few plants more beneficial than marigolds. Not only do they add a splash of color to your garden, but they also help deter pests from attacking your other plants. Tomato plants, in particular, can benefit from being planted near marigolds.

Marigolds contain a substance called limonene, which is a natural insect repellant. When companion planting with tomato plants, the limonene in the marigolds will help to keep pests like whiteflies at bay. Even if pests manage to get past the marigolds and attack your tomato plants, the limonene will help to keep them from doing too much damage.

Additionally, if you live in an area where deer are a problem, you may want to consider planting marigolds around the perimeter of your garden. The strong scent of the marigold flowers can help deter deer from entering your garden.

They Attract The Right Pollinators

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Marigolds are beautiful flowers that come in a variety of colors including yellow, orange, and red. They have the added benefit of attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Planting marigolds with tomato plants is a great way to attract these beneficial insects to your garden. The flowers of the marigold plant are also known to have a pleasant smell, which can help make your garden more inviting for pollinators.

Improved Soil Quality

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Marigolds and tomato plants are often planted together to improve the quality of the soil. They enrich the soil with nutrients, making it ideal for growing tomato plants. Marigolds may also help to improve the drainage of the soil and keep the roots of the tomato plants cool during hot summer days.

Tomatoes grown in soil enriched with marigolds may be healthier and have a better yield. This is because the marigolds make it more conducive for growing healthy plants. If you are looking to improve the quality of your soil, planting marigolds with tomato plants is a great way to do it.

Weed and Disease Control

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When it comes to disease control, marigolds may help to kill off harmful bacteria and fungi. This is especially beneficial for tomato plants as they are susceptible to diseases like blight and rot.

Weeds can also compete with tomato plants for water and nutrients, but marigolds can help to deter them as well. The deep roots of the marigolds help to prevent weed seeds from germinating and taking over your garden beds.

They Add Color To Your Garden

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Marigolds come in a variety of colors, so you can choose the ones that best complement your tomato plants. Orange and yellow are the most popular choices, but red and white marigolds are also beautiful options. Planting a mix of different colors is a great way to add some visual interest to your garden.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different varieties of marigolds. There are many different types to choose from, so you're sure to find one that you love. Some of the more popular varieties include French marigolds, African marigolds, and signet marigolds.

They Are Easy To Care For

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Marigolds are relatively easy to grow and care for, and they don’t require a lot of space. This makes them ideal companion plants for tomatoes as they can be planted in between rows or in areas where other plants wouldn’t thrive. Here’s how to do it:

• Choose a sunny spot in your garden for the best results.
• Prepare the soil by loosening it up and adding some organic matter.
• Plant your marigolds about 6 inches apart.
• Water regularly.
• Enjoy the colorful blooms all summer long!

In Summary

So, if you’re looking for a way to naturally deter pests and improve your soil health, companion planting marigolds with your tomatoes is a great option. Not only does it provide these benefits, but it can also increase your yields.

When selecting marigolds for your garden, look for varieties that are labeled as "dwarf" or "compact." These varieties will take up less space in your garden and won't compete with your tomato plants for nutrients. You should also choose a marigold variety that is well-suited to your climate.

Have you ever tried companion planting before? Do you have any tips or tricks that have worked well for you? Let us know in the comments below!