What to Plant after Tomatoes and Peppers

Tomatoes and peppers are some of the most popular crops grown in home gardens. These plants are relatively easy to grow and produce bountiful harvests, but they also have specific needs that can deplete the soil of important nutrients. After harvesting your tomatoes and peppers, it's important to know what to plant next to give your soil a break and replenish its essential nutrients. In this article, we'll explore some of the best crops to plant after tomatoes and peppers.

Beans

Beans are a great crop to plant after tomatoes and peppers because they add nitrogen back into the soil. Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth, and it is typically lacking in soil after tomatoes and peppers have been grown. Beans, however, are able to fix nitrogen from the air and convert it to a form that can be used by plants. Plant bush beans or pole beans in the spot where your peppers or tomatoes were growing, and watch them thrive.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens, like lettuce, spinach, and kale, are another great option to follow tomatoes and peppers. These plants require different nutrients than tomatoes and peppers, so they won't deplete the soil of the same nutrients. Additionally, leafy greens can help to break up soil compaction and improve soil structure, making it easier for other plants to grow. Plant your leafy greens in a spot that gets some shade, as they prefer cooler temperatures.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables, like carrots and beets, are another good option for planting after tomatoes and peppers. These vegetables grow deep into the soil, which can help to break up compacted soil and improve drainage. Additionally, root vegetables don't require as much nitrogen as tomatoes and peppers, so they won't deplete the soil of this important nutrient. Plant your root vegetables in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-drained soil.

Herbs

Herbs, like parsley, basil, and oregano, are a great option for planting after tomatoes and peppers. These plants have shallow roots, so they won't compete with other plants for nutrients. Additionally, herbs can attract beneficial insects to your garden, which can help to control pests and improve pollination. Plant your herbs in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-drained soil.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are another good crop to plant after tomatoes and peppers. These plants don't require as many nutrients as tomatoes and peppers, so they can help to replenish the soil without depleting it further. Additionally, cucumbers can help to break up soil compaction and improve soil structure. Plant your cucumbers in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-drained soil.

Conclusion

Knowing what to plant after tomatoes and peppers is essential for maintaining a healthy garden. By choosing crops that add nitrogen back into the soil, require different nutrients, or improve soil structure, you can ensure that your garden will continue to thrive. Consider planting beans, leafy greens, root vegetables, herbs, or cucumbers in the spot where your tomatoes and peppers were growing, and enjoy a bountiful harvest all season long.