Experienced gardeners already know that growing intercropping is of vital importance to the garden. If you’re looking for advice on what tomato’s partner plants are, read on. In this article, we provide expertise on the benefits of planting tomatoes and basil together. This partnership not only works particularly well in the culinary arts, but also outdoors.
Plant tomatoes and basil together – that’s why it’s worth it
Planting tomatoes and basil together: an overview of all the advantages of mixed cultivation
Strategic planting is everything in the garden and growing intercropping optimizes crop yields and makes plant care easier. In the ornamental garden you create visually opulent and impressive plant ensembles and in the kitchen garden you grow strong and delicious herbs and vegetables.
Growing basil in a bucket
Tomatoes and basil are excellent partner plants and complement each other as a mixed culture. The yield of the two plants will maximize when grown as a mixed crop. The basil will cover the soil beneath the tomatoes well while the climbing tomato plant will provide shade and maintain soil moisture. Both plants have the same demands on the soil – it must be nutrient-rich and well-drained.
A good tandem in the vegetable garden
The basil can help improve the soil around the tomatoes by releasing nitrogen. This will optimize the growth and health of the tomato plant.
#Common protection against diseases and pests
Intensely fragrant herbs deter various pests. Basil has earned a reputation as a vigorous snail-resistant plant and will perfectly protect the tomato plant from snail damage.
The king herb is one of the best plant neighbors of tomatoes
Basil can also repel certain tomato pests like aphids, thrips, and whiteflies. The essential oils in basil leaves repel all insects and mosquitoes.
#Similar water requirements
Both plants require sub-irrigation that avoids water falling on the foliage. This minimizes the risk of fungal diseases or rot. It is important that the two plants are watered evenly and that the root gets enough moisture. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening. Avoid the hot hours of the day.
Tomatoes and basil get along very well
Spreading a layer of mulch over the soil will suppress weed growth and maintain soil moisture. Irrigation systems such as drip irrigation or sprinklers can make watering the tomatoes and basil easier.
Would you like to learn in detail how to properly water the tomatoes?
#Fertilization
The mixed culture is best fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer that contains the right amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Planting clover or radish strategically near the intercropping can enrich the soil with nitrogen and other nutrients. You can also use homemade compost and organic fertilizers like coffee grounds, nettle brew, and some teas.
Tomatoes and basil as a mixed culture
Where can you plant tomatoes and basil together?
#Glasshouse
Since the two plants coexist so well, it is even recommended to plant tomatoes and basil together in the greenhouse. The basil nearby gives the tomatoes a tangy flavor and scent.
partnership in the greenhouse
#Bucket
While all basil varieties are compatible with all outdoor tomato varieties, you should be a little more selective when growing in containers. First of all, you should choose those tomato varieties that are suitable for growing in plant containers. The bucket should have a diameter of at least 30 cm and be provided with a good drainage system. Position the tomatoes in the center of the tub and surround the seedlings with the basil.
Plant tomatoes and basil together as a mixed culture in tubs
#Vegetable patch
A sunny location in the garden is required for the mixed culture. Don’t plant the tomatoes in a spot where other nightshades were grown – rotate the spot every 3 years accordingly. Plant the basil between the tomato plants and not very close to the tomato bush so the two don’t compete with each other.
