Can Tomatoes and Tomatillos be Planted Together?

Tomatoes and tomatillos are both members of the nightshade family and are often grown in vegetable gardens. While these plants are similar in appearance, there are some differences in their growth habits and requirements. Whether or not they can be planted together depends on several factors.

The Similarities and Differences between Tomatoes and Tomatillos

Although both tomatoes and tomatillos are from the same plant family, they have some differences in their appearance and taste. Tomatoes are typically round, smooth and come in different colors, such as red, yellow, green, and purple. On the other hand, tomatillos are smaller, green and covered with a papery husk. They also have a more tart flavor compared to tomatoes.

Both tomatoes and tomatillos require similar growing conditions, such as full sun exposure, well-drained soil, and a regular supply of water. However, tomatillos are more tolerant of colder temperatures whereas tomatoes require warmer temperatures to grow properly.

The Pros and Cons of Planting Tomatoes and Tomatillos Together

There are pros and cons to planting tomatoes and tomatillos together in your garden. One advantage is that they both belong to the same family and can benefit from the same soil nutrients and fertilizers. This can save you time and effort when it comes to caring for your plants.

On the other hand, there are some concerns that must be taken into consideration before planting these two plants together. Tomatoes and tomatillos need different amounts of water, with tomatillos requiring less water than tomatoes. This means that if you plant these two plants together, you may have difficulty watering them properly. Additionally, tomatoes are more susceptible to fungal diseases, and by planting tomatoes and tomatillos together, you risk spreading these diseases between plants.

Tips for Planting Tomatoes and Tomatillos Together

When planting tomatoes and tomatillos together, there are some tips that you can use to ensure that both plants thrive. Firstly, make sure that you choose a location that receives full sun exposure for at least six hours a day. Secondly, ensure that the soil is well-draining and nutrient-rich. You can add compost, manure or other organic materials to the soil to improve soil quality. Thirdly, plant your tomatoes and tomatillos at least one foot apart from one another to avoid any competition for nutrients and water.

Lastly, be vigilant when it comes to watering your plants. Tomatoes require more water than tomatillos, so make sure that you do not overwater your tomatillos. To prevent the transmission of diseases, avoid splashing water on the leaves of the plants and remove any infected foliage as soon as possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tomatoes and tomatillos can be planted together, but this requires some careful planning to ensure that both plants receive the right amount of nutrients, water and sunlight. By following the tips mentioned above, you can plant your tomatoes and tomatillos together and enjoy a bountiful harvest of these delicious nightshade fruits.