How To Plant Marigolds With Tomatoes For A Thriving Garden

July 02, 2023 Post a Comment

Marigolds and tomatoes are two of the most popular vegetables grown in gardens. They are both relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of climates. But did you know that planting marigolds with tomatoes can actually help to improve the health and productivity of your tomato plants?

In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of companion planting marigolds and tomatoes, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to do it properly.

Benefits of Companion Planting Marigolds and Tomatoes

There are several reasons why planting marigolds with tomatoes can be beneficial. First, marigolds help to repel pests and diseases that can damage tomato plants. For example, marigolds emit a scent that is disliked by nematodes, which are microscopic worms that can cause root rot in tomato plants. Marigolds also help to deter whiteflies, aphids, and other insects that can feed on tomato leaves.

Second, marigolds improve the soil quality around tomato plants. They help to aerate the soil and increase the levels of nitrogen and other nutrients. This can help tomato plants to grow healthier and produce more fruit.

Finally, marigolds simply make tomato gardens more attractive. Their bright colors and cheerful blooms add a touch of beauty to any garden.

How to Plant Marigolds with Tomatoes

To plant marigolds with tomatoes, you will need to choose the right location. Both marigolds and tomatoes need full sun, so make sure to plant them in an area that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. The soil should also be well-drained.

Once you have chosen a location, you can start planting. Marigolds can be planted from seed or from seedlings. If you are planting from seed, sow the seeds about 1/2 inch deep and 6 inches apart. If you are planting seedlings, space them about 12 inches apart.

After you have planted the marigolds, you can plant the tomatoes. Tomatoes should be planted about 2 feet apart.

Once the plants are established, you will need to water them regularly. Marigolds and tomatoes are both drought-tolerant, but they will produce more fruit if they are watered regularly.

You will also need to fertilize the plants every few weeks. Use a balanced fertilizer that is designed for vegetables.

With proper care, your marigolds and tomatoes will thrive and provide you with a bountiful harvest.

Conclusion

Planting marigolds with tomatoes is a great way to improve the health and productivity of your tomato plants. Marigolds help to repel pests and diseases, improve the soil quality, and make tomato gardens more attractive. If you are looking for a way to boost your tomato harvest, consider planting some marigolds alongside your tomatoes this year.

To plant marigolds with tomatoes, start by planting the tomatoes first. Allow 18 to 24 inches (46-61 cm.) between each tomato plant. Then, plant the marigolds around the tomatoes, spacing them 10 to 12 inches (25-30 cm.) apart.

FAQ of planting marigolds with tomatoes

Q: Can I plant marigolds next to tomatoes?

A: Yes, marigolds and tomatoes are considered to be companion plants, which means that they benefit each other when planted together. Marigolds can help to repel pests that can damage tomatoes, such as whiteflies, aphids, and nematodes. Tomatoes, on the other hand, can provide support for marigolds, as they can grow quite tall.

Q: How far apart should I plant marigolds and tomatoes?

A: Marigolds and tomatoes should be planted at least 18 inches apart. This will give both plants enough space to grow and thrive. If you are planting marigolds as a border around your tomato plants, you can space them closer together, about 12 inches apart.

Q: When should I plant marigolds with tomatoes?

A: You can plant marigolds with tomatoes at the same time. However, if you want to maximize the benefits of companion planting, you can plant marigolds a few weeks before your tomatoes. This will give the marigolds time to establish themselves and start to repel pests.

Q: What type of marigolds should I plant with tomatoes?

A: Any type of marigold can be planted with tomatoes. However, French marigolds (Tagetes patula) are a good choice because they have a strong scent that is known to repel pests.

Q: How do I care for marigolds and tomatoes planted together?

Marigolds and tomatoes have similar watering and sunlight requirements. Water both plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Marigolds and tomatoes also benefit from being fertilized regularly. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, every few weeks.

Q: What are some other benefits of planting marigolds with tomatoes?

In addition to repelling pests, marigolds can also help to improve the soil quality around tomato plants. They release compounds that help to break down organic matter and make nutrients more available to the tomatoes. Marigolds can also help to attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which can help to control pests.

Image of planting marigolds with tomatoes

Marigolds planted around a tomato plant in a garden bed. The marigolds are in full bloom, with their bright yellow and orange petals. The tomato plant is in the center of the bed, and it is covered in green leaves and small tomatoes.
A close-up of a marigold plant with a tomato plant in the background. The marigold plant has several blooms, and its leaves are a deep green color. The tomato plant is in the background, and it has several small green tomatoes.
A person planting a marigold seedling next to a tomato seedling. The person is wearing gardening gloves and is holding a trowel. The marigold seedling is small and has just a few leaves. The tomato seedling is also small, but it has more leaves than the marigold seedling.
A row of marigold plants and tomato plants in a garden bed. The marigold plants are in full bloom, and their bright colors brighten up the garden bed. The tomato plants are also in full growth, and they are covered in green leaves and small tomatoes.
A marigold plant and a tomato plant in a pot on a patio. The marigold plant is in full bloom, and its bright colors add a pop of color to the patio. The tomato plant is also in full growth, and it has several small tomatoes.
A marigold plant and a tomato plant in a hanging basket. The marigold plant is in full bloom, and its bright colors cascade down the sides of the hanging basket. The tomato plant is also in full growth, and it has several small tomatoes.
A marigold plant and a tomato plant in a window box. The marigold plant is in full bloom, and its bright colors add a pop of color to the window box. The tomato plant is also in full growth, and it has several small tomatoes.
A marigold plant and a tomato plant in a community garden. The marigold plant is in full bloom, and its bright colors add a pop of color to the community garden. The tomato plant is also in full growth, and it has several small tomatoes.
A marigold plant and a tomato plant in a landscaped area. The marigold plant is in full bloom, and its bright colors add a pop of color to the landscaped area. The tomato plant is also in full growth, and it has several small tomatoes.
A marigold plant and a tomato plant in a greenhouse. The marigold plant is in full bloom, and its bright colors brighten up the greenhouse. The tomato plant is also in full growth, and it has several small tomatoes.