What Do I Plant After Tomatoes?

Once your tomato season is over, it's time to start thinking about what to plant next. There are plenty of options, and what you choose will depend on factors like your climate, soil type, and personal preferences. In this article, we'll explore some of the best options for what to plant after tomatoes to keep your garden productive and healthy.

Beans

Beans are a classic choice for a follow-up crop after tomatoes. They're easy to grow, and they help to fix nitrogen in the soil, which is something that many tomato plants deplete. Plus, they're a great source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet. There are many types of beans to choose from, including green beans, lima beans, and pole beans. Just be sure to plant them after the last frost date, and give them plenty of water and support as they grow.

Lettuce

Lettuce is another good option for a post-tomato crop. It's a cool-weather crop, so it's best to plant it in the fall when temperatures start to drop. Lettuce doesn't require a lot of space, so it's perfect for containers or small gardens. You can harvest it multiple times throughout the season, and it's a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and wraps.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are a great choice for a follow-up crop to tomatoes. They're easy to grow and provide a refreshing addition to summer meals. They like warm weather, so it's best to plant them in the late spring or early summer after the last frost date. Be sure to give them plenty of water and support as they grow. Cucumbers are also great for pickling if you have a bumper crop.

Peppers

If you're looking for a flavorful crop to follow your tomatoes, consider planting some peppers. They come in many varieties and are a great source of vitamin C. Peppers like warm weather, so it's best to plant them in the spring or early summer after the last frost date. Be sure to give them plenty of water and support as they grow. Peppers can be used in many dishes, from stir-fries to salads to salsas.

Squash

Squash is another good option for a post-tomato crop. It's easy to grow and is a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Squash likes warm weather, so it's best to plant it in the late spring or early summer after the last frost date. Be sure to give it plenty of water and support as it grows. There are many varieties of squash to choose from, including zucchini and butternut squash.

Conclusion

There are many options for what to plant after tomatoes. Whether you prefer beans, lettuce, cucumbers, peppers, or squash, there's a crop that will suit your needs. Be sure to choose a crop that's appropriate for your climate and soil type, and give it the care and attention it needs to thrive. With a little planning, you can keep your garden productive and healthy all season long.