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Companion planting is a time-honored tradition that helps gardeners maximize their space and nurture a thriving ecosystem. When planning your summer garden, you might wonder if certain herbs or vegetables make good neighbors. For those who love the fresh taste of cilantro and the juicy goodness of tomatoes, the question arises: “Can you plant cilantro and tomatoes together?”
The answer is yes, with some considerations. While cilantro and tomatoes don’t offer the dramatic pest-repelling benefits seen with some other pairings, they can coexist peacefully and even offer a few subtle advantages when planted strategically.
Does Cilantro Grow Well With Tomatoes?
Cilantro can grow well with tomatoes, but it’s important to understand their different environmental preferences.
- Temperature Needs: Tomatoes are warm-season plants that thrive in full sun and hot temperatures. Cilantro, on the other hand, is a cool-season herb that tends to “bolt” (go to seed) quickly in hot weather.
- Shade Benefit: This difference can actually be turned into an advantage. Planting cilantro on the east side of taller tomato plants can provide the cilantro with some afternoon shade. This can help to delay bolting, allowing you to extend your cilantro harvest into the warmer months.
- Watering: Both plants prefer consistently moist soil, so they share similar watering needs, which is a plus for companion planting.
What Plant Goes Well with Cilantro?
Cilantro is a fairly versatile companion plant and pairs well with many vegetables. Its delicate flowers, when allowed to bolt, attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps, which can help control pests.
Good companion plants for cilantro include:
- Lettuce and other leafy greens: Cilantro can provide some shade for these cool-season crops.
- Anise: Said to improve cilantro’s growth.
- Dill and mint: These herbs also attract beneficial insects.
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Can You Companion Plant Cilantro with Tomatoes?
Yes, you can companion plant cilantro with tomatoes, primarily for its ability to attract beneficial insects when it flowers. While it might not directly deter specific tomato pests in the same way basil or marigolds do, the general increase in garden biodiversity is a significant benefit.
The key to success is managing the temperature differences. If planted in full, scorching sun directly next to a tomato, the cilantro will likely bolt very quickly. Strategically planting it where it can get some dappled afternoon shade from the tomato plant will yield the best results for your cilantro.
Can You Plant Cilantro with Tomatoes and Peppers?
Absolutely! Cilantro, tomatoes, and peppers can all be grown together successfully. Both tomatoes and peppers are warm-season crops that enjoy similar growing conditions. Planting cilantro around them, especially in a position where it gets some afternoon shade, can work well. The beneficial insects attracted by flowering cilantro will be helpful for all three plants.
Can You Plant Cilantro with Tomatoes and Basil?
Yes, this combination is also very effective! As we’ve discussed, basil is an excellent companion for tomatoes, known for its pest-repelling qualities and potential to enhance flavor. Adding cilantro to this trio introduces another layer of biodiversity and beneficial insect attraction.
When combining all three, consider the layout:
- Plant tomatoes and basil in the sunniest spots, as they both love heat.
- Position the cilantro on the east side of the tomato plants so it receives morning sun but is protected from the intense afternoon heat, encouraging it to produce more flavorful leaves before bolting.
Conclusion
While cilantro and tomatoes don’t share the same legendary companionship status as tomatoes and basil, they can certainly be planted together successfully. The trick lies in understanding cilantro’s preference for cooler temperatures. By utilizing the shade cast by your taller tomato plants, you can extend your cilantro harvest while still benefiting from the general pest control and increased biodiversity that flowering cilantro brings. So go ahead, experiment with this aromatic trio—your taste buds and your garden will likely thank you!
