Can Cabbage and Tomatoes Be Planted Together?

When it comes to planting vegetables, people are often unsure which plants should be grown together and which ones should be kept apart. One common question many gardeners ask is whether cabbage and tomatoes can be planted together. The answer is yes, they can be planted together, but there are some important things to keep in mind.

Companions or Enemies?

While cabbage and tomatoes can grow well together, they are generally not considered companions in the garden. Companion planting refers to the practice of planting certain plants together because they benefit each other in some way. For example, planting marigolds alongside tomatoes can help to deter pests.

Cabbage is often cited as a poor companion to tomatoes because it is said to attract the same pests, such as aphids and whiteflies, as tomatoes. However, this can be mitigated by planting certain varieties of cabbage, such as Chinese cabbage or bok choy, which are less prone to pests.

Planting Strategies

If you decide to plant cabbage and tomatoes together, there are a few strategies to keep in mind to promote the health of both plants.

Firstly, it's important to give each plant enough space to grow. Tomatoes need plenty of room to spread out, so be sure to plant them at least 18 inches apart. Cabbage also needs room to grow, so plant it at least 2 feet away from the tomatoes.

Secondly, make sure to plant the cabbage first. Tomatoes are heavier feeders than cabbage, so if you plant the cabbage too close to the tomatoes, they may not get enough nutrients. Plant the cabbage at least 2 weeks before you plant the tomatoes, and make sure to add plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to provide enough nutrients.

Benefits of Planting Cabbage and Tomatoes Together

Although cabbage and tomatoes are not considered companions, there are some benefits to planting them together. For one, the cabbage can provide some shade for the tomatoes, which can be helpful in regions with hot, sunny summers. Additionally, the cabbage can help to suppress weeds, which can be a problem in gardens with heavy clay soils or poor drainage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting cabbage and tomatoes together is possible, but it requires some careful planning to ensure the health of both plants. While they are not considered companions, there are some benefits to planting them together, such as providing shade and suppressing weeds. By following the planting strategies outlined above, you can successfully grow both cabbage and tomatoes in your garden.