Can You Plant Tomatoes Near Rhubarb?

Planting tomatoes and rhubarb in your garden can be a great way to yield a bountiful harvest of both fruits and vegetables. However, before planting them together, it's important to know if they can grow alongside each other without any issues. In this article, we'll explore if you can plant tomatoes near rhubarb, and what factors you should consider before doing so.

The Compatibility of Tomatoes and Rhubarb

Tomatoes and rhubarb are both perennial plants that require a similar growing environment to thrive. They prefer well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 6.8, along with full sunlight exposure for at least six hours a day. However, the two plants have different nutrient requirements, which can cause potential compatibility issues when grown together, especially when it comes to the pH level of the soil.

Rhubarb prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of 5.5 to 6.8, while the ideal pH level for tomatoes ranges from 6.0 to 6.8. If the soil pH level leans towards the acidic range favored by rhubarb, it could cause calcium deficiency in the tomato plants, resulting in blossom-end rot. Thus, it's important to conduct a soil test to ensure the pH levels are within the optimum range for both plants before planting them together.

The Benefits of Growing Tomatoes and Rhubarb Together

While tomatoes and rhubarb have different nutrient requirements, growing them together can benefit both plants. Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require a high amount of nitrogen, while rhubarb doesn't require as much. If properly managed, growing rhubarb near tomatoes can help absorb excess nitrogen from the soil, improving soil quality and preventing nitrogen leaching from the root zone. Additionally, when planted together, rhubarb can act as a natural pest repellent, keeping pests away from the tomato plants.

Tips for Growing Tomatoes and Rhubarb Together

If you're planning to grow tomatoes and rhubarb together in your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that they thrive together. Here are some tips:

Ensure the soil pH level is within the optimal range for both plants.

Plant the tomato and rhubarb seeds at least 3 feet apart to prevent competition for nutrients and space.

When fertilizing, apply a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to ensure both plants receive the necessary nutrients.

Water both plants regularly, ensuring the soil stays moist, but not waterlogged.

Prune the tomato plants regularly to prevent them from shading the rhubarb, which can inhibit its growth.

Harvest the rhubarb stalks regularly to prevent them from crowding the tomato plants.

In Conclusion

Planting tomatoes and rhubarb together in your garden can be a great way to maximize your harvest. However, before doing so, it's important to consider their compatibility and growing requirements to ensure both plants thrive. With proper soil preparation, spacing, fertilization, watering, and pruning, you can successfully grow tomatoes and rhubarb together in your garden, and enjoy a bountiful harvest. Happy gardening!