Can Tomatillos be Planted with Tomatoes?

Tomatoes and tomatillos are both members of the nightshade family and are commonly used in a variety of culinary dishes. Many gardeners wonder if it is possible to plant tomatillos with tomatoes. The short answer is yes, tomatillos can be planted with tomatoes. However, there are some important factors to consider before deciding to plant them together.

Planting Tomatillos and Tomatoes Together

Tomatoes and tomatillos have similar growing requirements, so they can be planted together in the same bed or garden. Both plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They also require regular watering and fertilization throughout the growing season.

It is important to note that tomatillos are much taller than tomato plants and can quickly shade them. To prevent this, plant the tomatillos on the north side of the tomatoes so they will not block the sun. Alternatively, you can use a trellis to train the tomatillos to grow vertically and prevent them from shading the tomato plants.

The Benefits of Planting Tomatillos and Tomatoes Together

Planting tomatillos with tomatoes can have several benefits. Tomatillos are known for their ability to repel a variety of pests, including the tomato hornworm. By planting tomatillos next to your tomato plants, you may help prevent pest infestations and reduce the need for pesticides.

In addition, planting tomatillos and tomatoes together can increase the biodiversity of your garden. Having a variety of plants in your garden can help support beneficial insects and microorganisms, which can in turn improve soil health and plant growth.

Harvesting Tomatoes and Tomatillos

Tomatoes and tomatillos can be harvested at different times depending on the variety and growing conditions. Tomatoes are typically ready to harvest when they turn a deep, vibrant color, such as red or yellow. Tomatillos are ready to harvest when their husks have turned brown and papery and the fruits have filled out the husk.

When harvesting tomatillos, it is important to remove their papery husks before using them in recipes. The husks can also be used to make salsa or other sauces. Tomatoes and tomatillos can be used in many of the same dishes, such as salsa, sauces, and stews.

In Conclusion

In summary, tomatillos can be planted with tomatoes in the same garden or bed. However, it is important to consider the height of the tomatillos and ensure they do not shade the tomato plants. Planting tomatillos and tomatoes together can provide several benefits, including pest management and increased biodiversity. Harvesting tomatillos and tomatoes at the right time will ensure they have the best flavor and texture for your culinary creations.