How to Stop Bugs from Eating Your Tomato Plants Without Using Any Chemicals—with Companion Plants
Tomatoes are one of the most rewarding garden crops to grow, but they’re also a favorite target for a wide range of pests—from aphids and hornworms to whiteflies and beetles. If you want to protect your tomato plants without turning to synthetic pesticides, companion planting offers an effective and natural solution. By growing specific plants alongside your tomatoes, you can repel pests, attract beneficial insects, and create a healthier, more balanced garden environment. Here’s how to keep your tomato plants safe—naturally.
Understanding Companion Planting
Companion planting is the practice of placing certain plants near each other to enhance growth, repel pests, and improve productivity. Some plants emit scents that deter insects, while others attract beneficial bugs that prey on harmful pests. When done correctly, companion planting can reduce pest problems and eliminate the need for chemical sprays.
Best Companion Plants to Deter Pests
1. Basil
Not only does basil enhance the flavor of tomatoes in the kitchen, but it also helps protect them in the garden. Basil’s strong scent repels thrips, flies, and mosquitoes. It’s especially good at keeping tomato hornworms at bay.
2. Marigolds
Marigolds are perhaps the most famous companion plant. Their pungent aroma deters a variety of insects, including whiteflies, aphids, and nematodes. French marigolds, in particular, are excellent for tomato gardens.
3. Nasturtiums
These vibrant flowers serve as a trap crop—meaning they lure aphids, whiteflies, and other pests away from your tomato plants. Nasturtiums also deter squash bugs and beetles.
4. Garlic and Onions
Members of the allium family, like garlic and onions, give off a strong odor that naturally repels red spider mites, aphids, and other common tomato pests. Plant them in rows or clumps around your tomato bed.
5. Borage
Borage attracts pollinators and predatory insects such as parasitic wasps and ladybugs, which feast on tomato pests. It also improves the growth and flavor of tomatoes.
6. Calendula (Pot Marigold)
Unlike true marigolds, calendula is edible and also great at attracting beneficial insects that prey on aphids and whiteflies. Their bright blooms are an added bonus.
Planting Tips for Success
- Interplant strategically: Place companion plants between or around tomato plants to create a pest-repelling perimeter.
- Rotate regularly: Changing plant locations each year can help prevent pest populations from becoming established.
- Keep it diverse: A variety of companion plants will attract a broader range of beneficial insects.
- Avoid bad companions: Not all plants are friends. Avoid planting tomatoes near brassicas (like cabbage or broccoli) or corn, as they can attract pests or compete for nutrients.
Additional Natural Pest Control Tips
Even with companion planting, good garden practices can make a big difference:
- Inspect plants daily for signs of pests or damage.
- Hand-pick visible bugs like hornworms and beetles.
- Water early in the day to discourage fungal diseases.
- Mulch to prevent weeds and reduce pest habitat.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your tomato plants from pests doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals. By using companion plants like basil, marigolds, garlic, and nasturtiums, you create a natural barrier that keeps bugs away while promoting a vibrant and diverse garden ecosystem. With a little planning and observation, you can enjoy healthy, pest-free tomatoes—all summer long—naturally and sustainably.
