The Ultimate Guide to Tomatillo Companion Plants

Oleh Anonymous May 27, 2021 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

What are Tomatillos?

Tomatillos are a type of fruit that are commonly used in Mexican cuisine. They look like small green tomatoes with a papery husk around them. Tomatillos have a tart, citrusy flavor and are often used to make salsa verde.

Why are Companion Plants Important?

Companion planting is the practice of planting different plants together in a way that benefits both the plants and the gardener. Companion plants can help improve soil quality, deter pests, and attract beneficial insects.

Tomatillo Companion Plants

If you're growing tomatillos, there are several companion plants that can help improve their growth and production. Here are some of the best tomatillo companion plants:

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are a great companion plant for tomatillos because they help repel pests like nematodes and aphids. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control other pests.

2. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are another great companion plant for tomatillos. They have a strong scent that can help repel pests like whiteflies and cucumber beetles. Nasturtiums also attract predatory insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps, which can help control pests.

3. Basil

Basil is a good companion plant for tomatillos because it can help repel pests like mosquitoes and flies. It also has a spicy scent that can help confuse pests and make it harder for them to find your plants.

4. Beans

Beans are a legume that can help improve soil quality by fixing nitrogen in the soil. This can benefit your tomatillo plants, which need nitrogen to grow and produce fruit.

5. Peppers

Peppers are a good companion plant for tomatillos because they have similar growing requirements. They both like warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil. Peppers also help repel pests like aphids and spider mites.

How to Plant Tomatillo Companion Plants

When planting tomatillo companion plants, it's important to consider their growing requirements. Make sure they have similar sunlight and soil requirements as your tomatillo plants. You should also avoid planting too many companion plants together, as this can lead to overcrowding and competition for resources.

1. Plant Marigolds Around Your Tomatillo Plants

Plant marigolds around your tomatillo plants to help repel pests and attract beneficial insects. You can either plant them directly in the ground or in containers.

2. Grow Nasturtiums Near Your Tomatillo Plants

Grow nasturtiums near your tomatillo plants to help repel pests and attract predatory insects. You can plant them directly in the ground or in containers.

3. Plant Basil Between Your Tomatillo Plants

Plant basil between your tomatillo plants to help repel pests and add flavor to your garden. You can either plant it directly in the ground or in containers.

4. Interplant Beans and Tomatillos

Interplant beans and tomatillos in the same bed to help improve soil quality and provide mutual benefits. Make sure to give them enough space to grow and avoid planting too many plants together.

5. Grow Peppers Near Your Tomatillo Plants

Grow peppers near your tomatillo plants to help repel pests and provide similar growing conditions. You can plant them directly in the ground or in containers.

FAQs

1. Can I grow tomatillos with tomatoes?

Yes, you can grow tomatillos with tomatoes. However, they have different growing requirements and may not be the best companion plants.

2. Do I need to plant all of these companion plants?

No, you don't need to plant all of these companion plants. Choose the ones that work best for your garden and planting space.

3. How far apart should I plant my tomatillo companion plants?

This depends on the specific plants you're planting. Follow the recommended spacing guidelines for each plant.

4. Can I grow tomatillos in containers?

Yes, you can grow tomatillos in containers. Just make sure to choose a large enough container and provide adequate drainage.

5. What's the best way to care for my tomatillo plants?

Tomatillos need plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular watering. Make sure to fertilize them regularly and prune them as needed to encourage healthy growth and fruit production.