The best things to put around tomato plants include organic mulch like straw, shredded bark, or compost to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Companion plants such as basil, marigolds, or carrots also offer benefits like pest deterrence and improved growth.

Why Mulching Your Tomato Plants is a Game-Changer

Mulching is arguably the most beneficial practice you can implement for your tomato plants. It creates a protective layer over the soil, mimicking natural forest floors. This layer is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for your tomato roots.

What Does Mulch Actually Do for Tomatoes?

Mulch performs several vital functions that directly impact the health and yield of your tomato plants. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating optimal growing conditions.

• Moisture Retention: Tomatoes need consistent watering. Mulch significantly reduces water evaporation from the soil surface, meaning you’ll water less often. This is especially helpful during hot, dry spells.
• Weed Suppression: A good layer of mulch blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds. This prevents them from germinating and competing with your tomatoes for water, nutrients, and light.
• Temperature Regulation: The soil temperature can fluctuate dramatically, especially with intense sun. Mulch acts as an insulator, keeping the soil cooler in summer and warmer in cooler weather. This stable soil temperature is vital for root health and nutrient uptake.
• Soil Health Improvement: As organic mulches break down over time, they add valuable nutrients and organic matter to the soil. This improves soil structure and fertility for future plantings.
• Disease Prevention: Mulch can prevent soil-borne diseases from splashing onto the lower leaves of your tomato plants during rain or overhead watering. This is a key factor in disease management.

Top Mulch Choices for Tomato Plants

When selecting a mulch, consider what’s readily available and its specific benefits.

• Straw: An excellent, cost-effective choice. It’s lightweight, decomposes well, and provides good insulation. Ensure it’s weed-free straw, not hay, which contains seeds.
• Shredged Bark or Wood Chips: These offer long-lasting weed suppression and a neat appearance. They decompose slowly, meaning you might need to replenish them less often.
• Compost: A nutrient-rich option that feeds your soil as it suppresses weeds and retains moisture. Homemade or bagged compost works well.
• Grass Clippings: If you have a lawn, dried grass clippings are a free and effective mulch. Apply them in thin layers to prevent matting and allow for airflow.

Application Tip: Apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base of your tomato plants, keeping it a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.

The Power of Companion Planting for Tomatoes

Beyond mulch, strategically planting other species near your tomatoes, known as companion planting, offers a synergistic approach to gardening. These plants can deter pests, attract beneficial insects, and even improve the flavor of your tomatoes.

Which Plants Make Good Tomato Companions?

Certain plants have a natural affinity for tomatoes, creating a more resilient and productive garden ecosystem.

• Basil: A classic companion. It’s believed to repel tomato hornworms and whiteflies. Many gardeners also report that basil improves the flavor of tomatoes.
• Marigolds: These bright flowers are renowned for their ability to deter nematodes, microscopic roundworms that can damage tomato roots. French marigolds are particularly effective.
• Carrots: Carrots loosen the soil with their roots, which can benefit tomato plants. They also don’t compete heavily for nutrients.
• Nasturtiums: These vibrant flowers can act as a trap crop for aphids, drawing them away from your tomatoes. They also deter other pests like whiteflies and squash bugs.
• Borage: This herb attracts pollinators like bees, which are essential for tomato fruit set. It’s also said to deter tomato hornworms and improve growth.

How Companion Planting Works

The effectiveness of companion planting often comes down to a combination of factors. Some plants release natural compounds into the soil or air that deter pests. Others attract beneficial insects that prey on common tomato pests. Still others improve soil structure or nutrient availability.

Example: Planting basil near your tomatoes can create a natural pest-repellent zone. The aromatic oils in basil confuse or deter pests like the tomato hornworm, reducing the need for chemical interventions.

Other Beneficial Additions Around Tomato Plants

While mulch and companion plants are top contenders, a few other items can contribute to a thriving tomato patch.

Epsom Salts: A Nutrient Boost

A common garden tip involves using Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate). Magnesium is a crucial nutrient for plant growth and chlorophyll production.

• How to Use: Dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of Epsom salts in a gallon of water. Apply this solution to the soil around the base of your tomato plants once or twice during the growing season. Alternatively, you can sprinkle a small amount directly onto the soil and water it in.
• Benefits: Can help prevent or correct magnesium deficiencies, leading to greener leaves and potentially more abundant fruit.

Eggshells: Calcium Source

Crushed eggshells provide a slow-release source of calcium. Calcium is important for preventing blossom end rot, a common problem in tomatoes.

• How to Use: Thoroughly wash and dry eggshells, then crush them into a fine powder. Mix this powder into the soil around your plants or sprinkle it on top.
• Consideration: It takes time for calcium from eggshells to become available to plants, so it’s best used as a preventative measure.

What NOT to Put Around Tomato Plants

Just as some things are beneficial, others can be detrimental to your tomato plants.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Fresh Manure: Raw or fresh manure can burn plant roots due to its high nitrogen content and can contain pathogens. Always use well-composted manure.
• Weeds with Seeds: If you’re using weeds as mulch, ensure they haven’t gone to seed. Otherwise, you’ll be creating a weed nursery around your tomatoes.
• Plastic Mulch (in some cases): While it suppresses weeds and retains moisture, plastic mulch can prevent water and air exchange, potentially overheating the soil. Organic mulches are generally preferred for their soil-building properties.

People Also Ask

### What is the fastest way to get rid of tomato plant pests?

The fastest way often involves a direct intervention. For immediate pest control, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays, which are organic options. Hand-picking larger pests like hornworms and dropping them into soapy water is also very effective for immediate removal.

### Can I put coffee grounds around my tomato plants?

Yes, coffee grounds can be beneficial when used in moderation. They add nitrogen and organic matter to the soil as they decompose. However, avoid piling them thickly, as they can form a crust that impedes water and air penetration.

### How