Introduction

After growing tomatoes and potatoes, many gardeners are left wondering what to plant next. It's important to choose carefully, as different plants have different nutrient requirements and planting the wrong thing can negatively impact your soil. In this article, we'll explore some of the best crops to plant after tomatoes and potatoes.

Legumes

Legumes such as peas, beans and lentils are excellent options to plant after tomatoes and potatoes. They are able to fix nitrogen into the soil, which replenishes the soil naturally. They are also able to grow in soil that has been depleted of nutrients, making them an ideal crop to plant after potatoes. Legumes have shallow roots, which makes them a great choice for gardens where tomatoes have been grown, as deep roots have likely depleted the soil.

When planting legumes, be sure to choose a variety that is well-suited for your climate and soil type. Plant seeds directly in the ground as early in the season as possible, and be sure to provide trellises or supports for climbing varieties.

Brassicas

Brassicas such as broccoli, cabbage and kale are another good crop to plant after tomatoes and potatoes. These plants are heavy feeders and require a lot of nutrients to grow, making them a good choice after potatoes, which deplete the soil of nutrients. Brassicas are also able to grow in soil that is slightly acidic, which makes them an ideal crop to plant after tomatoes.

When planting brassicas, make sure to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients. Be sure to plant them in a spot that gets full sun, and keep them well-watered to prevent them from drying out.

Nightshades

Nightshades such as eggplant, peppers and tomatoes themselves can be planted after tomatoes and potatoes. These plants have similar nutrient requirements to potatoes and tomatoes, making them a good choice to plant after these crops. Additionally, nightshades are able to grow in slightly acidic soil, making them a good choice for gardens where tomatoes have been grown.

When planting nightshades, be sure to plant them in a different spot in the garden than where you grew your previous tomato or potato crop. This will help prevent any diseases or pests from carrying over to the new plants. Nightshades also require full sun, so choose a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.

Conclusion

After growing tomatoes and potatoes, there are many great crops that you can plant next. Legumes, brassicas and nightshades are all excellent choices that can help replenish your soil and provide a bountiful harvest. Be sure to choose a variety that is well-suited for your climate and soil type, and amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to ensure a healthy crop. With these tips in mind, you'll be sure to have a successful harvest after your tomato and potato crops.