Can I Plant Corn Next to Tomatoes?

Many gardeners wonder if it’s okay to plant different vegetables next to each other. This is because some plants can benefit each other, while others can be harmful to their neighbors. In the case of corn and tomatoes, the answer is yes, you can plant them next to each other, but there are some things you should keep in mind.

The Benefits of Planting Corn and Tomatoes Together

Corn and tomatoes are great companion plants for a few reasons. First, corn provides a natural trellis for tomato vines, giving them support to climb and grow tall. This helps to provide better airflow and sunlight for the tomatoes, which can lead to healthier plants and bigger, more abundant harvests.

Secondly, tomatoes can help to repel pests that can harm corn, such as the corn earworm. Tomatoes contain alkaloids that are toxic to many pests, so planting them near your corn can help to deter these pests from taking up residence in your garden.

What to Keep in Mind When Planting Corn and Tomatoes Together

While planting corn and tomatoes together can be beneficial, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, corn is a heavy feeder, and it requires a lot of nitrogen to grow well. To ensure that your corn has enough nutrition to grow tall and strong, you should plant it at least three weeks before your tomatoes. This will give the corn a head start on getting the nutrients it needs before the tomatoes start to grow and compete for resources.

Additionally, corn is a tall plant, and it can shade out smaller plants like tomatoes if it’s planted too close to them. To avoid this, you should plant your corn on the north or east side of your garden, with your tomatoes planted on the south or west side. This will help to ensure that your tomatoes get enough sunlight to grow and thrive, while still benefiting from the support of the corn.

Tips for Planting Corn and Tomatoes Together

If you’re planning to plant corn and tomatoes together in your garden, there are a few additional tips that can help to ensure a successful harvest. First, be sure to choose varieties of both plants that are well-suited to your climate and growing conditions. For example, if you live in a hot, dry area, you may want to choose varieties of corn and tomatoes that are drought-tolerant, to help ensure that they can survive in your garden.

Secondly, be sure to give your plants plenty of space to grow. Corn plants should be spaced at least 12 inches apart, while tomato plants should be spaced 18-24 inches apart. This will help to ensure that each plant has enough room to grow and get the nutrients and sunlight it needs.

Finally, be sure to water your plants regularly, especially during hot, dry periods. Corn and tomatoes both require a lot of water to grow well, so be sure to keep the soil moist to support healthy plant growth.

Conclusion

So, can you plant corn next to tomatoes? The answer is yes, you can. In fact, planting these two plants together can be beneficial for both. As long as you keep in mind the tips and considerations mentioned above, you can enjoy a successful harvest of both corn and tomatoes in your garden.