Every gardener strives for a bountiful harvest of tomatoes, full of flavor and nutrients. In search of the best results, they use different approaches, including interplanting different crops.
Marigold flowers are prized for their decorative appearance and ease of care. But how safe are these colorful plants for tomatoes?
Anastasia Kovrizhnykh , an expert of the online publication "BelNovosti", an agronomist and landscape designer, told how to act in such a situation.
Is it possible to plant marigolds next to tomatoes, or will such a neighborhood cause more harm than good?
Marigolds: Defenders or Aggressors
Marigolds are valued for their ability to repel pests. Their pungent smell is unpleasant for many insects, including those who are not averse to eating tomatoes.
Nematodes, whiteflies, aphids, and Colorado potato beetles are just some of the pests that marigolds repel.
Marigold roots secrete special substances that suppress the development of fungal diseases that often affect tomatoes. Late blight, fusarium, various types of rot - these problems can bypass tomatoes growing next to marigolds.
It would seem that marigolds are ideal neighbors for tomatoes, protecting them from pests and diseases. But there are nuances.
Competition for resources
Marigolds, despite their unpretentiousness, are active consumers of moisture and nutrients.
If there is insufficient watering and the soil composition is poor, marigolds can compete with tomatoes for resources, which will negatively affect the yield.
The Shadowy Side of Marigolds
Tall varieties of marigolds can create shade, blocking sunlight from reaching the tomatoes.
Tomatoes are light-loving plants, they need a sufficient amount of sun for full development. Insufficient lighting leads to stretching of plants, decreased yield and deterioration of the taste of the fruit.
Allergic factor
Marigold pollen can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you or someone you know is prone to allergies, you should be careful about planting marigolds and tomatoes together.
Compatibility of marigolds and tomatoes: rules for smart neighborhood
Despite some nuances, marigolds can be useful neighbors for tomatoes if certain rules are followed:
• Choose low-growing varieties of marigolds that will not shade the tomatoes.
• Plant marigolds at least 20 cm away from tomatoes to avoid competition for resources.
• Provide sufficient watering and fertilizing to meet the needs of both plant species.
• Monitor the condition of the plants; at the first signs of disease or pest damage, take the necessary measures.
Previously, we talked about what a wireworm is and how to get rid of it forever .
Expert: Anastasia Kovrizhnykh
