There’s a classic book called Carrots love Tomatoes that was written by a North American woman, Louise Riotte, nearly four decades ago.
Considered by many to be the “bible” of companion planting, it was first published in 1975, and is still on the bookstore bookshelves years after her death in 1998. But in those days the idea of growing particular plants together for mutual benefit was something most backyard gardeners either rejected or failed to consider.
Today, with the ever- growing trend of things organic, and an increasing awareness of the need for sustainability, home gardeners – and many commercial gardeners for that matter – are practicing companion planting, along with crop rotation, green manuring and other natural pursuits.
Why Tomatoes Need Companions
While the companions favoured by different plants vary, the reasons for companion planting are essentially (within broad parameters) the same for all of them. While not all companions fulfill the same function, broadly speaking certain companion plants will:
attract bad bugs
attract good, beneficial bugs
assist pollination
feed and nourish the soil
provide shade
provide support
The end result is that by planting good, suitable companions for the vegetables and other plants you are growing, you will that you are able to minimise the pests in your veggie garden and produce beautifully healthy, organic crops for the table.