Can You Plant Watermelon Next to Tomatoes?

Watermelons and tomatoes are commonly grown fruits in the vegetable garden. If you have limited space, you might be wondering if it is possible to plant watermelon next to tomatoes. The answer is yes! However, there are some things you need to consider before planting these two fruits together.

Consideration 1: Spacing

Both watermelons and tomatoes require sufficient space to grow. Watermelons need at least six feet between each plant, while tomatoes need around two feet. Therefore, you need to ensure that you have enough space to accommodate both plants. You can try planting the tomatoes in between the watermelon hills or grow the watermelons vertically to save space.

Consideration 2: Soil

Watermelon and tomato plants prefer different types of soil. Watermelons like well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8, while tomatoes thrive in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.2 to 6.8. You should mix in organic matter like compost or aged manure to create a fertile soil that can meet the requirements of both plants.

Consideration 3: Timing

Watermelons and tomatoes have different growing seasons. Watermelons take around 80 to 95 days from planting to harvest, while tomatoes can take 70 to 80 days. Therefore, you need to plant them at the right time to ensure that they mature at the same time. Alternatively, you can plant them in succession, where you sow the watermelon seeds a few weeks later than the tomato seeds.

Consideration 4: Pest and Disease Control

Watermelons and tomatoes are susceptible to different pests and diseases. For example, watermelons can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, while tomato plants can suffer from the tomato hornworm and the tomato fruitworm. To avoid cross-contamination of pests and diseases, you need to practice proper hygiene and remove any infected plant parts. You can also use natural pest and disease control methods that are safe for both plants.

Conclusion

Planting watermelon next to tomatoes is possible, but you need to consider spacing, soil, timing, and pest and disease control. By taking these factors into account, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of watermelons and tomatoes from your garden.