9 Companion Plants You Should Never Grow With Tomatoes

Strawberries

Both strawberries and tomatoes are prone to verticillium wilt, a dangerous fungal disease. Planting them together increases the risk of infection spreading between the two plants. Ensure adequate spacing and consider using raised beds to minimize soil-borne disease transmission.

Corn

Corn and tomatoes are vulnerable to the same pests, such as the corn earworm or tomato fruit worm. Additionally, corn may cast too much shade, hindering tomatoes' need for full sun. Separate them by planting taller crops like corn to the north of tomatoes to avoid shading.

Dill

While dill can repel aphids and hornworms from tomatoes, mature dill plants may stunt tomato growth. Plant dill strategically around young tomato plants for pest control benefits without compromising tomato growth.

Fennel

Fennel secretes substances from its roots that can stunt the growth of neighboring plants, including tomatoes. Plant fennel away from tomatoes or use containers to prevent root interaction.

Cauliflower

Both cauliflower and tomatoes are demanding crops in terms of soil nutrients, leading to competition and nutrient depletion if planted together. Rotate planting locations annually and amend soil with organic matter to support both crops' nutrient needs.

Broccoli

Similar to cauliflower, broccoli competes with tomatoes for resources and can lead to nutrient deficiencies, particularly calcium. Provide adequate spacing and consider intercropping with companion plants that have different nutrient requirements.

Potatoes

Despite their similar names, potatoes and tomatoes are both nightshades and compete for nutrients and resources. They are also vulnerable to the same diseases and pests. Practice crop rotation and avoid planting nightshade family members

Cucumbers

While some recommend planting cucumbers and tomatoes together, they share disease vulnerabilities and may create dense vines that hinder air circulation, making them more susceptible to diseases.

Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi, like turnip cabbage, competes with tomatoes for nutrients, leading to nutrient depletion and reduced harvest yields when planted together. Plan crop rotations to avoid planting tomatoes in areas recently occupied by nutrient-demanding