Can basil and tomatoes be planted together?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Basil and tomatoes are among the most beneficial companion plantings in gardening. Together, this traditional pairing enhances growth and flavor in each plant. Tomatoes provide partial shade, which protects basil from the intense summer heat. In turn, basil keeps away damaging pests that typically feed on tomato plants. This mutual offering creates a symbiotic relationship in the garden.
Basil acts as a pest repellent to tomato hornworms and whiteflies, as its strong scent confuses and deters these pests. When basil is planted close to tomatoes, the infestation rate is less than 50%. People reported less than 10% infestation with tomatoes planted with basil! Reduced pest populations means that you don't need to spray chemicals on your tomatoes. Basil can also keep your plants healthier, which helps tomatoes by having basil buddies nearby.
Spacing Requirements
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart for proper airflow
- Avoid overlapping root systems in garden beds
- Use triangular planting patterns to maximize space
- Allow 24-inch clearance for indeterminate tomato varieties
Container Considerations
- Use minimum 18-inch diameter pots for paired planting
- Ensure separate root zones with divider barriers
- Select dwarf tomato and compact basil varieties
- Provide extra drainage with multiple bottom holes
Maintenance Synergy
- Water both at soil level simultaneously
- Apply balanced 5-5-5 fertilizer to both plants
- Prune lower tomato leaves to match basil height
- Mulch jointly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Sufficient spacing allows for healthy growth for both plants. Tomatoes require a healthy amount of airflow to prevent the risk of fungal diseases. At the same time, basil needs sunlight that it will not receive if it is overcrowded. The spacing of 12-18 inches will allow both plants to be happy and grow in the necessary light. Proper spacing will allow for a good harvesting route without damaging either plant.
When it comes to container planting, it takes some thought. Use large pots so you can also define root zones, plant tomatoes in the middle and basil around the edge. Handle water with caution, as containers lose moisture faster than garden soil. This works wonderfully on patios and balconies as well.
The harvest schedule aligns with each plant's natural growth. Basil is at its peak flavor just when tomatoes are beginning to ripen. Harvesting regularly for most flavor profiles will permit the basil to continue growing bushy. Continuous harvest will also prevent the basil from flowering at the same time as the tomatoes. You get to enjoy fresh food in your kitchen!
Read the full article: When to Plant Basil for Best Results
