12 Best Plants for Companion Planting With Tomatoes

Growing tomatoes in a vertical space can be challenging, especially if you’re unsure about yield expectations.

However, you can maximize your garden’s potential by intercropping—growing plants beneath your tomatoes. Intercropping offers numerous benefits, such as enhancing soil quality, improving pest control, and increasing overall yield.

Companion planting is a simple and effective way to maximize your tomato harvest while protecting the soil for long-term success.

Below, we’ll explore the best plants to grow under tomato plants and the advantages they provide.

What is Companion Planting?
Companion planting, also known as intercropping, involves growing multiple plant species together to optimize space, improve plant health, and prevent pest infestations.

By strategically placing crops, you can enhance soil diversity, reduce weed growth, and improve access to water and nutrients.

Why Companion Planting Works:
Maximizes space by using vertical and horizontal planting techniques
Reduces the risk of pests and diseases through natural repellent properties
Prevents soil erosion and preserves moisture
Enhances soil fertility with nitrogen-fixing plants
While companion planting has many advantages, it’s essential to choose the right plants. Some plants work well with tomatoes, while others should be avoided due to competition for resources.

12 Plants to Grow Under Tomato Plants
1. Herbs – Boost Growth and Flavor

Herbs are low-maintenance and don’t compete with tomatoes for sunlight, water, or nutrients. Some excellent choices include:

Basil – Enhances tomato flavor and repels pests like mosquitoes and whiteflies
Parsley & Sage – Adds culinary value and attracts beneficial insects

Oregano & Dill – Deters harmful pests (harvest dill early to prevent competition)
Chives – Provides a fragrant boost and keeps aphids away
2. Groundcovers – Protects Soil and Prevents Weeds

Most groundcovers thrive under tomato plants, including:

Marjoram & Oregano – Natural weed suppressants
Creeping Thyme – Retains soil moisture
Sweet Alyssum – Attracts pollinators
3. Lettuce – A Living Mulch

Lettuce thrives in the shade of tomato plants, helping to:

Retain soil moisture
Suppress weed growth
Reduce disease spread
4. Beans – Nitrogen Boost for Soil

Beans are a great companion for tomatoes because they:

Improve soil nitrogen levels
Reduce the need for chemical fertilizers
Provide a vertical and bushy balance in the garden
Tip: Grow bush beans near tomatoes for maximum benefits.

5. Radishes – Keeps Soil Cool

Radishes thrive in cooler temperatures, making them ideal for intercropping with tomatoes. They also help:

Prevent soil compaction
Deter certain pests
6. Root Vegetables – Space-Saving Nutrient Boosters

Growing carrots, beets, and turnips under tomato plants is beneficial as they:

Break up compacted soil
Absorb excess nitrogen (which tomatoes don’t need in excess)
Provide extra nutrients for soil health
7. Flowers – Natural Pest Deterrents

Flowers enhance biodiversity and repel pests that target tomato plants. Consider growing:

Marigolds – Repels nematodes and tomato hornworms
Violas & Pansies – Adds color while requiring minimal sunlight
Roses & Tomatoes Together? – Roses benefit from tomato vines climbing their stems, protecting them from black spot
8. Onions – A Low-Maintenance Companion