Can I Plant Tomatoes with Potatoes?

Tomatoes and potatoes are both delicious parts of a healthy diet, and many people love to grow them in their own gardens. If you're planning a garden or considering adding these two crops to your existing beds, you may be wondering: can I plant tomatoes with potatoes?

Planting Tomatoes and Potatoes Together

The short answer is yes, you can plant tomatoes and potatoes together. In fact, combining tomatoes and potatoes in the same beds is a common practice known as intercropping. While plants of the same species may compete for resources and attract pests that target their common weaknesses, tomato plants and potato plants do not share many common problems or needs.

Tomatoes are sensitive to frost and prefer warm, well-drained soil. Potatoes are well adapted to cool weather and require moist, well-drained soil. Planting the two together can help regulate soil temperature and moisture, as well as deter pests that target only one of the two crops.

One potential drawback to intercropping tomatoes and potatoes is that tomatoes can have a detrimental impact on potato yields. Tomato plants are known to release chemicals from their roots that can inhibit the growth of potatoes. However, this effect tends to be mild unless the tomato plants are severely overcrowded, and many gardeners have found great success with intercropping the two crops.

Tips for Intercropping Tomatoes and Potatoes

If you're interested in planting tomatoes and potatoes together, here are some tips to help you succeed:

Start with healthy, disease-free seedlings or seed potatoes.

Give each plant plenty of space. Tomatoes should be spaced at least 18 inches apart and potatoes should be spaced 12 inches apart in rows that are at least 2 feet apart.

Add plenty of organic matter to the soil to promote healthy growth and keep soil moisture levels consistent.

Use a trellis system for tomato plants to keep them off the ground and prevent them from smothering potato plants.

Water both crops regularly and consistently.

Monitor the garden for pests and diseases and address any issues promptly.

Harvest potatoes as soon as they are ready to prevent the buildup of chemicals that can affect growth of the remaining crop.

Conclusion

In summary, intercropping tomatoes and potatoes can be a successful strategy for many gardeners. While there are some potential drawbacks to combining these two crops, with proper planning and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of both delicious vegetables. Try experimenting with intercropping in your garden this season and see how it works for you!