Can Potatoes be Planted Where Tomatoes were Last Year?

As a gardener, you are probably always trying to find ways to maximize your yield while minimizing the time and effort you need to put in. One question that often arises when planning your garden rotations is whether or not you can plant potatoes in a bed where tomatoes were grown the previous year. Let's dive in and look at the pros and cons of this practice.

The Pros of Planting Potatoes Where Tomatoes Were Last Year

There are several reasons why planting potatoes where you grew tomatoes the previous year can be a great idea. Firstly, potatoes prefer a slightly acidic soil pH, whereas tomatoes prefer a more neutral pH. As tomatoes are heavy feeders and deplete the soil's nutrients, planting potatoes in that same bed can ensure that the soil pH is just right for the potatoes to thrive. Secondly, planting potatoes where you grew tomatoes can help break up soil-borne diseases that may have infected your tomatoes the previous year. This helps prevent soil pathogens from building up over time and decimating your crops.

The Cons of Planting Potatoes Where Tomatoes Were Last Year

While there are some clear benefits to planting potatoes in a bed where tomatoes used to grow, there are also some downsides to consider. Firstly, both tomatoes and potatoes belong to the same family of plants, Solanaceae. This means that planting potatoes where tomatoes grew the previous year can facilitate the spread of pathogens that specifically affect this plant family. Secondly, planting potatoes in a bed that has recently been home to tomatoes can attract pests that are common to both crops, such as the Colorado potato beetle or the tomato hornworm.

Best Practices for Planting Potatoes Where Tomatoes Were Last Year

If you are keen to try planting potatoes in a bed where tomatoes grew the previous year, there are some best practices to follow. Firstly, make sure you do not plant any other Solanaceae crops in the same bed for a few years after planting potatoes there, as this increases the risk of pathogens building up over time. Secondly, consider companion planting with other crops that can help repel pests that target both tomatoes and potatoes. Examples of this include marigolds, basil, or lavender. Lastly, make sure you rotate your crops to different beds each year to prevent nutrient depletion and to ensure that your soil stays healthy over time.

The Bottom Line

So, can potatoes be planted where tomatoes were last year? The short answer is yes! While there are some risks associated with this practice, carefully following best practices and taking steps to reduce the spread of disease can help you successfully grow a crop of potatoes in a bed where tomatoes previously grew. Ultimately, planting potatoes in this way can help you maximize your yield and make the most of your garden space.