Can You Plant Cabbage Near Tomatoes?

Choosing the right companions for your garden plants is an essential part of successful gardening. Certain crops go well together and improve each other’s growth, while others should be kept apart to prevent issues like pest infestation or competition for resources. If you are wondering whether you can plant cabbage near tomatoes, here is what you need to know.

Companion Planting Basics

Companion planting is the art of pairing up plants that benefit each other when grown in close proximity. This practice is said to promote healthier soil, reduce pest problems, enhance flavor, and increase yield. However, not all combinations work, and some can even have negative consequences.

To determine whether two crops make good companions or not, you should consider several factors, such as their nutrient requirements, root depth, growth patterns, and susceptibility to pests and diseases. Some plants have allelopathic effects, meaning that they release chemicals that can inhibit or stimulate the growth of other plants.

Cabbage and Tomatoes: A Good Match?

Cabbage and tomatoes belong to the same family of plants, called Solanaceae, which also includes peppers, eggplants, and potatoes. Despite being related, these two crops have different needs and habits, which can affect their compatibility.

Cabbage is a cool-season crop that prefers full sun exposure, fertile and well-drained soil, and regular watering. It is susceptible to pests such as aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms, and requires ample space to grow to its full size. Cabbage also has shallow roots that can interfere with other crops’ roots.

Tomatoes, on the other hand, are warm-season crops that thrive in heat and humidity. They need a long growing season, good drainage, and consistent moisture. Tomatoes are prone to diseases such as blight, blossom end rot, and verticillium wilt, and attract pests like tomato hornworms, cutworms, and spider mites. They have deep roots that can reach up to six feet in length.

The Pros and Cons of Planting Cabbage Near Tomatoes

Based on their characteristics, planting cabbage near tomatoes can have both advantages and drawbacks.

On the plus side, cabbage can help repel certain pests that bother tomatoes, such as aphids and whiteflies. Cabbage also has a shallow root system that does not compete for nutrients and water with tomatoes, which have deep roots. Additionally, cabbage can provide some shade and shelter to the soil, reducing moisture loss and erosion.

However, there are also some downsides to planting cabbage and tomatoes together. Tomatoes can attract hornworms that may also feed on cabbage leaves, causing damage to both plants. Cabbage, in turn, can harbor caterpillars that later move to tomatoes and cause problems. Moreover, if your tomatoes are affected by blight or other diseases, these can spread to cabbage and ruin the crop.

Tips for Successful Companion Planting

If you decide to plant cabbage near tomatoes, here are some tips to make sure your crops grow well:

Space your plants properly to allow for adequate air circulation and avoid overcrowding.

Plant taller crops, like tomatoes, to the north or west side of shorter crops, like cabbage, to prevent shading.

Use companion plants that are attractive to beneficial insects, such as marigolds, basil, or dill, to help control pests.

Aim for a diversity of crops to promote a balanced ecosystem and deter pests and diseases.

Rotate your crops every year to prevent soil-borne diseases and improve soil health.

The Bottom Line: Cabbage and Tomatoes Can Be Friends

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether you can plant cabbage near tomatoes, the general consensus is that it is possible to do so with some precautions. By understanding the requirements and quirks of both crops and following some best practices for companion planting, you can increase your chances of having a productive and harmonious garden.