Can Arugula Be Planted with Tomatoes?

Arugula and tomatoes are two popular crops in home gardens and commercial farms alike. But can these two plants be grown together in the same bed or container? The answer is yes – arugula and tomatoes can be planted side by side and can even benefit each other in certain ways.

The Benefits of Growing Arugula with Tomatoes

Arugula can be a great companion plant for tomatoes because it helps to repel harmful insects, such as aphids and flea beetles. Arugula contains natural oils and sulfur compounds that can deter these pests and protect the nearby tomato plants. Additionally, arugula is a fast-growing crop that matures quickly, usually within 4-6 weeks. This means that it can be planted in between young tomato plants and harvested before the tomatoes really start to fill out.

Tomatoes can also benefit from the presence of arugula because it helps to improve soil health. Arugula is a member of the Brassicaceae family, which means that it is a good source of glucosinolates – natural compounds that break down into chemicals that can suppress soil-borne diseases, such as verticillium and fusarium wilt. By planting arugula alongside tomatoes, you can help to reduce the risk of these diseases and improve the overall health of your soil.

Tips for Planting Arugula with Tomatoes

If you want to try planting arugula with tomatoes in your garden or container, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Space the plants appropriately – tomato plants should be planted at least 2 feet apart, while arugula can be planted in rows or clusters with at least 6 inches of space between plants.

Plant the arugula first – if you are planting both crops at the same time, sow the arugula seeds a few weeks before the tomato plants. This will give the arugula a head start and make sure that it is mature enough to harvest before the tomatoes get too big.

Harvest the arugula regularly – to keep the arugula from shading out the tomatoes or competing for nutrients, make sure to harvest it regularly. You can cut the leaves off at the base or pull up the whole plant.

Water carefully – arugula and tomatoes have slightly different watering needs. Arugula prefers to be kept consistently moist, while tomatoes like to dry out slightly between waterings. Make sure to water both crops appropriately to avoid over- or under-watering.

Be aware of pests and diseases – although arugula can help to repel some pests and diseases, it is not immune to them. Keep an eye out for any signs of damage or infection and take action as needed.

In Conclusion

Arugula and tomatoes can be great companions in the garden, providing mutual benefits and a tasty harvest. By following a few simple tips and keeping an eye on pests and diseases, you can enjoy the combination of these two crops in your own backyard.