Can I Plant Kale Next to Tomatoes?

Kale and tomatoes are two of the most popular vegetables to grow in a garden. They are both delicious and nutritious, and they can complement each other well in a dish. But can you plant kale next to tomatoes? The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind when doing so.

The Benefits of Planting Kale Next to Tomatoes

One of the biggest benefits of planting kale next to tomatoes is that they can help each other grow. Tomatoes are heavy feeders, and they require a lot of nutrients to grow. Kale, on the other hand, is a light feeder and doesn't require as many nutrients. This means that if you plant kale next to tomatoes, the kale can help to absorb some of the excess nutrients in the soil and prevent the tomatoes from being over-fertilized.

In addition to helping each other grow, planting kale next to tomatoes can also be beneficial in terms of pest control. Tomatoes are prone to a number of different pests, such as aphids and whiteflies. Kale, on the other hand, is relatively pest-resistant. By planting kale next to tomatoes, you may be able to deter some of these pests and reduce the need for pesticides.

How to Plant Kale Next to Tomatoes

If you want to plant kale next to tomatoes, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure that you plant the kale at least 18 inches away from the tomatoes. This will give the kale enough space to grow and prevent it from shading the tomatoes too much.

Second, make sure that you choose a variety of kale that can tolerate the acidic soil that tomatoes prefer. Some varieties of kale, such as Red Russian kale, can handle acidic soil and are therefore a good choice for planting next to tomatoes.

Finally, make sure that you plant the kale after the tomatoes have started growing. Tomatoes grow quickly, and if you plant the kale at the same time as the tomatoes, it may get overshadowed and not receive enough sunlight.

Conclusion

Planting kale next to tomatoes can be a great way to maximize the nutrients in your garden and reduce your need for pesticides. By following the tips mentioned above, you can successfully grow both of these delicious and nutritious vegetables in your garden.