Can You Plant Tomatoes and Tomatillos Together?

Tomatoes and tomatillos are both popular vegetables that are commonly used in cooking. While they are similar in appearance and come from the same plant family, they actually have different growth habits and require different growing conditions. So, can you plant tomatoes and tomatillos together in the same garden? The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

Planting Tomatoes and Tomatillos Together

When planting tomatoes and tomatillos together, it’s important to choose the right location in your garden. Both plants need plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. They also require regular watering and fertilization to thrive. If you plan to grow your tomatoes and tomatillos from seed, it’s best to start them indoors in pots several weeks before the last spring frost. This will give them a head start and ensure they are strong and healthy when you transplant them outside.

Caring for Tomatoes and Tomatillos

Tomatoes and tomatillos require similar care, but there are a few differences to keep in mind. Tomatoes should be planted deep in the soil, with just a few leaves above the ground. This encourages the plant to form strong roots, which will help it to grow taller and produce more fruit. Tomatillos, on the other hand, should be planted in shallow holes, with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface. This will help to prevent them from developing a long stem and falling over as they grow.

Both plants need regular watering, but be careful not to overwater them. Too much water can lead to root rot and other fungal problems. It’s also important to fertilize your tomatoes and tomatillos regularly with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Finally, be sure to remove any dead or diseased leaves from the plants to prevent the spread of disease.

Harvesting Tomatoes and Tomatillos

Tomatoes typically take 60-80 days to mature, while tomatillos take slightly longer, between 70-100 days. Tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are fully ripe and have a bright, even color. Tomatillos, on the other hand, should be harvested when they are still green and the papery husk around them has started to split. If you wait too long to harvest tomatillos, the fruit can become mealy and lose its flavor.

When harvesting, be sure to use pruning shears or a sharp knife to avoid damaging the plant. You can store both tomatoes and tomatillos in a cool, dry place for up to several weeks. Tomatoes can also be canned or frozen for longer storage.

Conclusion

Overall, planting tomatoes and tomatillos together is a great way to add variety to your garden and produce a range of delicious vegetables. With the right care and attention, these plants can grow and thrive together, providing you with endless possibilities for fresh, home-grown meals.