Companion Planting
Companion planting places crops so they benefit each other: repelling pests, attracting pollinators, or using space and timing efficiently. It is a supplement to, not a replacement for, good culture.
Classic pairings
Marigold deters some nematodes and pests near tomatoes; basil is said to improve tomato growth and repel mosquitoes; beans fix nitrogen for heavy feeders like corn.
What to keep apart
Avoid putting heavy feeders side by side, and keep allelopathic plants (like black walnut) away from sensitive crops.
Plan the timing
Use the calendar tool to stagger sowings so companions mature together and you rotate beds yearly to break pest cycles.
Planting Calendar (plan your bed)
Use the free tool below with your own numbers — results are printable.
In California (typical zone 5–11), last frost ≈ Feb 15, first frost ≈ Dec 1 (289-day season), your Tomato plan:
Month-by-month (California, 2026)
| Month | Action |
|---|---|
| Jan | Start indoors |
| Feb | — |
| Mar | Sow · Transplant |
| Apr | — |
| May | Harvest |
| Jun | — |
| Jul | — |
| Aug | — |
| Sep | — |
| Oct | — |
| Nov | — |
| Dec | — |
Start indoors 6 weeks before last frost; transplant after soil warms. Zones 3–13 suitable. Dates are typical; confirm with your county extension and watch the 10-day forecast.
ZoneFig guidance is educational, based on USDA zones and extension guidelines. Confirm local freeze dates, product labels, and regulations with your county extension.