Can I Plant Tomatoes and Corn Next to Each Other?

As a backyard gardener, you want to make the most of your space and grow as many different vegetables as possible. But choosing which plants to grow and where to plant them can be tricky. One question that comes up often is whether or not you can plant tomatoes and corn next to each other.

The Answer

The answer is yes, you can plant tomatoes and corn next to each other. While it's true that some plants don't get along well together and can stunt each other's growth or attract pests, tomatoes and corn are not among them. They both have similar needs in terms of soil, water, and sunlight, and they can actually benefit each other when planted together.

Why they Work Together

Corn and tomatoes are known as "companion plants," which means they benefit each other when planted together. Here are some of the ways they complement each other:

Tomatoes are heavy feeders, meaning they need a lot of nutrients. Corn, on the other hand, is a light feeder and doesn't require as many nutrients. By planting them together, the corn can help to create a balanced soil environment for the tomatoes.

Corn is a tall plant, which can provide some much-needed shade for the tomato plants during the hottest part of the day.

Tomato plants can help to deter some insects that are attracted to corn, including corn earworms and armyworms.

Corn creates a natural trellis for the tomato plants to climb on, which can help to save space and keep the tomatoes off the ground.

Tips for Planting Tomatoes and Corn Together

If you want to plant tomatoes and corn together in your garden, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Space them out: Make sure to give each plant enough space to spread out and grow. Corn should be planted in rows with at least 3 feet of space between each plant, while tomato plants need around 2 feet of space between each plant.

Consider fertilizer: While corn doesn't require as much fertilizer as tomatoes, it's still important to make sure both plants are getting the nutrients they need. Consider using a balanced fertilizer that will provide both nitrogen and phosphorus, which are important for both corn and tomato growth.

Plant at the right time: Both corn and tomatoes should be planted after the last frost in your area. Tomatoes need warm soil to germinate and grow, while corn needs warm days and cool nights to thrive.

Be aware of pests: While tomatoes can help to deter some pests, they also attract others. Keep an eye out for tomato hornworms, aphids, and other pests that can damage both tomato and corn plants.

The Bottom Line

Planting tomatoes and corn together can be a great way to make the most of your garden space and improve the health of both plants. As long as you give each plant enough space, fertilizer, and attention, they should thrive together and provide you with a bountiful harvest.