Tomatillos might be low-maintenance, but pairing them with the right garden neighbors can seriously boost their growth, flavor, and resilience. Whether you’re battling pests, improving soil, or just want a more productive harvest, companion planting is the game-changer your tomatillo patch needs.
These 31 companion plants are the ones that play nice—helping your tomatillos thrive while creating a more balanced and beautiful garden.
1. Basil
Nothing smells quite as delightful as fresh herbs wafting through the garden. Basil is the quintessential neighbor for tomatillos. Its aromatic leaves repel harmful insects, creating a safe haven for your tomatillos.
Besides, basil adds a sweet yet peppery kick to your favorite dishes. Who wouldn’t want a double benefit in their garden? Just think of the delightful salsas and sauces you can whip up with basil and tomatillos working hand in hand.
2. Marigold
Bringing a pop of color to your garden, an unassuming flower works magic behind the scenes. Marigolds are the unsung heroes for tomatillos. Their vibrant blooms deter nematodes and other pests from disturbing your precious crops.
Plant them generously and enjoy the added benefit of a cheerful garden. With marigolds, you get both protection and pretty petals to admire. Sometimes, a little color can go a long way in keeping your tomatillos happy.
3. Cilantro
Every garden benefits from a touch of greenery that also spruces up your salsa recipe. Enter cilantro. This herb pairs well with tomatillos, both in the garden and on the plate. Cilantro attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies, which keep aphids in check.
So, while you enjoy its fresh taste in your green salsa, your tomatillos enjoy a healthier life. It’s a win-win for both your taste buds and your garden.
4. Nasturtium
With vibrant hues, an underappreciated flower transforms your garden into an inviting oasis. Nasturtiums are companions that trap aphids, sparing tomatillos from pest invasions. Their bright blooms are not only a feast for the eyes but also edible wonders.
You can sprinkle them on salads for a peppery twist. Growing nasturtiums means enhanced beauty and practicality, ensuring your tomatillos thrive unbothered.
5. Borage
A little-known gem, this plant is more than just a pretty face. Borage is a superstar companion for tomatillos. Its star-shaped flowers attract pollinators, boosting tomatillo fruit production.
Moreover, borage improves soil quality by adding essential nutrients. It’s like having a natural fertilizer and pollinator magnet in one. With borage, your tomatillos are bound to flourish like never before.
6. Dill
A herb with a distinct flavor profile, stands tall as a silent protector. Dill brings beneficial insects like ladybugs to your tomatillo patch. These natural predators feast on aphids, keeping your plants safe.
In addition to pest control, dill’s aromatic fronds add flavor to your dishes. Together, dill and tomatillos can create culinary magic while maintaining a harmonious garden environment.
7. Parsley
A humble herb takes center stage when it comes to garden beauty and utility. Parsley is more than just a garnish; it’s a beneficial companion for tomatillos. It attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies, which help control aphid populations.
Plus, parsley’s rich green leaves add visual appeal to your garden beds. A harmonious blend of practicality and beauty, parsley ensures your tomatillos enjoy a pest-free existence.
8. Sunflowers
Standing tall and proud, a familiar face brings sunshine to the garden. Sunflowers are the towering companions your tomatillos will love. Their height provides shade and support, reducing heat stress on tomatillos. Moreover, sunflowers attract pollinators, enhancing fruit production.
As they sway in the breeze, they create a lively ecosystem that benefits all nearby plants. Your tomatillos will thrive in their cheerful company.
9. Mint
With an invigorating aroma, a refreshing herb takes the spotlight. Mint is a versatile companion for tomatillos. Its strong scent deters pests like aphids and beetles, keeping your tomatillos safe. While it spreads quickly, a little control goes a long way in maintaining its usefulness.
Apart from protection, mint leaves provide a delightful addition to beverages and dishes, making your garden a happier place.
10. Oregano
One cannot underestimate the power of this aromatic herb. Oregano is a steadfast ally for your tomatillos. Its robust scent wards off harmful insects, providing a natural shield.
Beyond protection, oregano adds depth to your culinary creations. Imagine the flavor boost it offers in combination with tomatillos. With oregano, your garden and kitchen will both benefit immensely.
11. Chives
An often overlooked contender steals the show with its dainty appearance. Chives are more than a garnish—they’re vital companions for tomatillos. Their onion-like aroma repels pests, offering protection naturally.
Moreover, chives attract pollinators, enhancing tomatillo fruit set. Add a touch of flavor and utility by planting chives near your tomatillos. It’s a partnership that brings out the best in both plants.
12. Bee Balm
With a name that promises sweetness, this plant does not disappoint. Bee balm is an exceptional partner for tomatillos. Its bright blooms attract bees, ensuring robust pollination and greater fruit yields.
Besides, it adds a touch of color and charm to any garden space. With bee balm around, your tomatillos will be buzzing with activity—literally! It’s a win-win for beauty and productivity.
13. Thyme
Sometimes, a little goes a long way—a truth embodied by this herb. Thyme is a fragrant ally that offers protection to tomatillos. Its scent keeps garden pests at bay, acting as a natural barrier.
Additionally, thyme’s culinary appeal is undeniable, complementing tomatillos in delicious dishes. By integrating thyme into your garden, you ensure both flavor and functionality.
14. Petunias
A splash of color and a hint of scent—some plants do it all. Petunias are more than ornamental beauties; they’re protective allies for tomatillos. Their presence deters pests, creating a safer environment.
Their vibrant flowers add visual appeal, making your garden a delightful space. Grow petunias with your tomatillos and enjoy both protection and prettiness.
15. Garlic
With a pungent aroma that commands attention, this kitchen staple is a garden warrior. Garlic is a powerful companion for tomatillos, known for repelling pests like spider mites and aphids.
Apart from protection, it enriches the soil with nutrients, benefiting tomatillo growth. A little garlic goes a long way, both in your garden and your cooking ventures.
16. Lettuce
A leafy green that’s more than just a salad staple. Lettuce offers ground cover, reducing weeds and keeping soil moist for tomatillos.
Although it may seem modest, lettuce plays a crucial role in maintaining garden harmony. Plant it around tomatillos for a lush, productive garden.
17. Radish
A crunchy addition to any dish, yet its garden prowess is often overlooked. Radishes are quick growers that loosen soil, improving drainage for tomatillos.
They mature rapidly, allowing for efficient use of space. By planting radishes with tomatillos, you ensure a thriving, well-structured garden.
18. Spinach
A nutrient-packed green offers more than culinary benefits. Spinach serves as a natural mulch, keeping soil cool and retaining moisture for tomatillos.
Its lush foliage provides shade, reducing stress on tomatillos during hot days. With spinach, you cultivate a supportive, productive environment for your garden.
19. Carrots
A root vegetable that pulls its weight both underground and above. Carrots pair well with tomatillos by aerating the soil and reducing compaction.
Their slim profiles optimize space, making them perfect garden mates. Together, carrots and tomatillos create a harmonious and thriving garden bed.
20. Peas
A legume with a talent for teamwork. Peas fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting tomatillo growth. As climbers, they make efficient use of vertical space.
By pairing peas with tomatillos, you enhance soil fertility and maximize garden productivity.
21. Cucumbers
A refreshing addition both in the garden and on your plate. Cucumbers grow well with tomatillos, providing ground cover and reducing weed competition.
Their sprawling nature complements tomatillos, creating a lush, productive space. Together, they make for a happy, harmonious garden duo.
22. Squash
A big, bold plant that contributes more than just flavor. Squash provides shade and retains soil moisture, benefiting nearby tomatillos.
Their large leaves act as protective umbrellas, creating a cool, nurturing environment. Squash and tomatillos together bring balance to your garden ecosystem.
23. Zinnias
A floral beauty that does more than just look good. Zinnias attract pollinators such as butterflies, aiding tomatillo fruit set.
Their vibrant blooms also add a cheerful touch to any garden. Plant zinnias near tomatillos for a fruitful, colorful garden experience.
24. Tansy
A plant with a storied past and a helpful present. Tansy deters pests with its strong scent, safeguarding tomatillos. I
t’s known for its insect-repelling properties, making it a valuable garden ally. With tansy, your tomatillos are sure to thrive pest-free.
25. Sage
A perennial herb that brings wisdom and protection. Sage’s aromatic leaves ward off garden pests, offering tomatillos safe growth.
Its earthy fragrance adds a touch of flavor to your dishes, making sage a dual-purpose garden companion.
26. Rosemary
A fragrant herb that stands as both a culinary and garden staple. Rosemary repels harmful insects from tomatillos, ensuring a pest-free environment.
Its aromatic leaves add depth to your culinary creations, offering a win-win situation for both garden and kitchen.
27. Lavender
A calming presence with a powerful effect. Lavender’s fragrant blooms repel pests while attracting beneficial pollinators to your tomatillos.
Beyond its protective nature, lavender adds beauty and a peaceful ambiance to your garden. It’s a perfect companion for thriving tomatillos.
28. Fennel
An aromatic plant that brings both flavor and function. Fennel attracts beneficial insects, supporting tomatillo growth and health.
Its unique taste adds variety to culinary dishes, making fennel a valuable addition to your garden.
29. Cabbage
A leafy green that provides more than just substance. Cabbage protects tomatillos by deterring pests and providing shade.
Its robust leaves create a microclimate, promoting healthy tomatillo growth. Together, cabbage and tomatillos make a formidable garden duo.
30. Brussels Sprouts
An often underestimated plant with significant garden potential. Brussels sprouts provide shade and deter pests, benefiting tomatillos.
Their unique appearance adds a touch of whimsy to your garden. By pairing them with tomatillos, you create a dynamic, thriving garden space.
31. Kale
A superfood that packs a punch in the garden. Kale offers shade and retains soil moisture, aiding nearby tomatillos.
Its resilience and nutritional benefits make kale an excellent companion plant, ensuring robust garden growth.