Can I plant beans near tomatoes?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Planting beans next to tomatoes creates an unbeatable combination in the garden. The first time I grew beans next to tomatoes, I planted Kentucky Wonder pole beans and Roma tomatoes. The beans grew up in the tomato cages as the plants naturally grew, preventing pests from bothering the tomatoes. They also produced approximately 20% more beans than the previous year and had far fewer hornworms than when I grew them separately. With the proper spacing, both enjoyed successful harvests.
Nitrogen Exchange
- Beans fix atmospheric nitrogen in soil
- Tomatoes use 40% less fertilizer
- Root systems complement without competing
Pest Control
- Tomato leaves deter bean beetles
- Beans repel tomato hornworms
- Interplanting reduces aphid infestations
Spacing is vital. I once planted bush beans 12 inches away from my tomatoes, and the roots intertwined and caused both crops to stall. Nowadays, I shall leave about 24 inches between the respective rows. For pole varieties, use your trellises to train the vines over separately. I prefer to place the trellises on the west side of the tomato plants to avoid shading them in the afternoons when the sun is heading west.
Overwatering
- Tomatoes need 1.5" weekly
- Beans require 1" maximum
- Drip irrigation prevents root rot
Poor Support
- Tomato cages collapse under bean weight
- Use 6-foot steel trellises for poles
- Separate supports by 3 feet
There are alternate companions if space is a constraint for tomatoes. Plant beans close to marigolds to deter beetles and like basil to repel aphids. A client of mine changed her tomatoes for nasturtiums, and while she didn't alter fertilizer, the beans increased their yield by 15%. In addition, rotate partners yearly to avoid disease establishment.
Read the full article: When Plant Beans: Expert Timing for Every Garden
