Can You Plant Tomatoes Between Kohlrabi?

Growing different vegetables in close proximity can help maximize your garden space while also providing your plants with beneficial companionship. One such pairing is the combination of kohlrabi and tomatoes, but can you plant them together? In this article, we will explore the benefits of pairing these two crops and the considerations you need to take before planting them side by side.

The Benefits of Companion Planting Kohlrabi and Tomatoes

Kohlrabi and tomatoes are both part of the brassica family, which means they thrive in similar conditions. Kohlrabi is a cool-season crop, while tomatoes are warm-season crops. Planting them together allows you to efficiently use space in your garden and provide a more diverse range of nutrients to the soil. Kohlrabi has shallow roots, so planting them alongside tomato plants can help provide extra shade to the kohlrabi without affecting its growth.

Moreover, the smell of kohlrabi can help repel tomato hornworms, which are a common pest that loves to munch on tomato plants. On the other hand, tomatoes can repel flea beetles, which are known to feed on kohlrabi plants. Together, kohlrabi and tomatoes can create a natural barrier to protect each other from pests and improve the overall health of your garden.

Factors to Consider Before Planting Kohlrabi and Tomatoes Together

While there are plenty of benefits to companion planting kohlrabi and tomatoes, there are also a few factors to consider before planting them together. First and foremost, you need to make sure that both plants have enough space. Kohlrabi should be planted around 10-12 inches apart, while tomatoes need at least 24-36 inches between each plant. Ensure that you plan your garden beds accordingly to avoid crowding and stunting the growth of either plant.

Another consideration is the amount of sunlight your garden gets. Kohlrabi needs full sun to grow correctly, while tomatoes prefer a combination of both sun and shade. If you notice that your kohlrabi plants are starting to wilt or show signs of sun damage, you may need to adjust the positioning of your tomato plants to provide more shade.

Lastly, make sure that you select compatible tomato varieties. Certain tomato plants can be more aggressive than others in terms of growth and can outcompete your kohlrabi plants for nutrients and resources. Look for varieties that have a non-invasive root system and don't grow too tall or bushy.

In Conclusion

Companion planting kohlrabi and tomatoes can be a great way to optimize your garden space and promote the health and growth of both crops. However, it's essential to consider how much space and sunlight each plant needs, as well as selecting appropriate tomato varieties. As long as you plan accordingly, you can easily enjoy the benefits of these two plants as complementary neighbors in your garden.