Why Can't You Plant Potatoes and Tomatoes Together?

Many gardeners like to plant a variety of vegetables in their gardens to maximize the use of space and resources. However, some vegetables don't get along well together, and planting them together can lead to poor yields or even death of plants. One classic example of such combinations is planting potatoes and tomatoes together. Here's why you can't plant potatoes and tomatoes together and what to do instead.

The Science Behind It

Both potatoes and tomatoes belong to the Solanaceae family, which means they share many common diseases and pests. For example, both are susceptible to early blight, late blight, and verticillium wilt. If you plant them together, the viruses and bacteria that cause these problems could easily spread from one plant to another, leading to widespread problems and reduced yields. Additionally, planting tomatoes near potato plants can attract potato beetles, which can eat the potato leaves and even tubers, resulting in severe damage to the crop.

What to Do Instead

If you still want to grow both potatoes and tomatoes in your garden, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the problems. Firstly, avoid planting them in close proximity. A distance of at least 50 to 100 feet can help reduce the transmission of diseases and pests. Alternatively, plant them in different parts of your garden or in separate containers.

Secondly, consider planting varieties of potatoes and tomatoes that are resistant to the common diseases and pests. For example, some potato varieties like Kennebec and Katahdin are less susceptible to late blight and early blight, while some tomato varieties like Rutgers and Big Beef have resistance to verticillium wilt and fusarium wilt. You can also use organic fungicides and insecticides to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

Thirdly, practice good crop rotation. Don't plant potatoes or tomatoes in the same spot for at least three years to avoid the buildup of soil-borne pathogens. Instead, rotate them with other crops like beans, peas, and corn, which can help improve soil health and fertility.

The Bottom Line

While it may seem convenient to plant potatoes and tomatoes together, it's best to avoid doing so to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. Instead, plant them in different parts of your garden, choose disease-resistant varieties, and practice good crop rotation. By doing so, you can enjoy healthy and abundant crops of both potatoes and tomatoes without compromising the health of your garden.