Dear Sven,

Is it OK to grow other plants around my tomato plants? I only have a small fold away greenhouse and have had it for a few years now and move it occasionally on my veg patch, again isn't very large. I have lettuce plants between each plant, a few beetroot seed and carrots. Thanks for your help!

Reg

Our Gardens Expert replies:

Hi Reg

I don't recommend planting potatoes, fennel or cabbage family plants near tomatoes. Some plants are considered beneficial to others, so here are a few ideas of plants that will help your toms get on better:

- Basil repels aphids, flies, mosquitoes and mites, and also helps to control pests like tomato horn worms and asparagus beetles.

- Borage repels tomato worms and adds nutrients to the soil, such as potassium and calcium. It is also very good for attracting honey bees and other pollinators.

- Mint is said to improve the flavour and growth rate of tomatoes.

- Onions repel aphids, weevils, carrot flies, and moles (supposedly) also they help control rust flies. Most importantly for you, they help protect tomatoes from red spider mites, but remember they also slow the growth of beans and peas.

I would usually suggest planting tomatoes in grow bags or pots with fresh new compost, because they are hungry feeders and will deplete the nutrients in soil after a couple of years. However, as with any crop in the garden it will need space to grow, and enough room so that it is not in direct competition with other plants.

You will also need to ensure that they get all the water, sunlight and nutrients they need, especially if others are near by. I would suggest a weekly dose of tomato feed to ensure a good crop.

So, yes, can grow other things around your tomatoes, just choose them carefully!

I hope that helps!

Sven