Can I Plant Tomatillos with Tomatoes?

If you are a fan of Mexican cuisine, you have probably come across the tart, green fruit called tomatillo. Tomatillos are a staple in many Mexican dishes, such as salsa verde and chile verde, and they are gaining popularity in the United States as well. If you are thinking of adding tomatillos to your home garden, you might wonder if you can plant them with tomatoes. The answer is, yes, you can plant tomatillos and tomatoes together, but there are a few things you should keep in mind.

The Similarities and Differences between Tomatillos and Tomatoes

Tomatillos and tomatoes both belong to the Solanaceae family, also known as the nightshade family. They have similar growth habits, requiring full sun and well-draining soil. However, tomatillos have a few distinct features that differentiate them from tomatoes. Tomatillos have a papery husk that covers the fruit, which needs to be removed before using. They are also more upright and bushy than tomatoes, which have a more vine-like growth habit.

Companion Planting Tomatillos and Tomatoes

Companion planting is the practice of planting different plants together in a way that benefits both species. When it comes to planting tomatillos and tomatoes together, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, tomatillos are known to be excellent companions for tomatoes because they help to repel pests that often prey on tomato plants, such as tomato hornworms and aphids. Secondly, tomatillos require a similar growing environment to tomatoes, so they are able to share resources such as soil nutrients and water.

Planting Tomatillos and Tomatoes Together

When planting tomatillos and tomatoes together, it is important to keep in mind their differences in growth habits. Tomatoes tend to grow downwards on a vertical support while tomatillos grow upwards and outwards. To avoid overcrowding, it is best to plant them in separate areas of the garden. If you do choose to plant them together, make sure that the tomatillos are planted in a way that allows them to grow upwards without shading the tomatoes.

Caring for Tomatillos and Tomatoes

Both tomatillos and tomatoes require regular care to thrive. Water them deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide support for the tomato plants to prevent them from collapsing under the weight of the fruit. Prune the tomatillo plants to encourage bushiness and prevent them from sprawling. In terms of harvesting, tomatillos are ripe when the fruit fills out the husk and turns yellowish-green. Tomatoes are ripe when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch.

Conclusion

Planting tomatillos and tomatoes together is a great way to maximize the potential of your garden. They are both members of the same plant family and have similar growing requirements, making them great companion plants. However, be mindful of their differences in growth habit and provide care accordingly. With proper planting and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of both tomatillos and tomatoes.