Question
I've heard that planting peppers and tomatoes too close to each other can affect the growth and production of each type of plant.  Is there any truth to this and if so, how far apart do you need to the peppers from the tomatoes?  I currently am gardening in Wisconsin.  Thanks  Russ

Answer
Russ, there are plants that do not grow well in close proximity.  A prime example would be carrots with dill or beans planted near garlic or onions.  Each inhibits the growth of the other.  But that is not the case with peppers and tomatoes.  Both are members of the nightshade family and cohabitate quite well.  I also plant basil in the same area because basil actually aids in the growth of nightshade plants.

I always plant my peppers and tomatoes 2 feet apart.  This ensures that they will not be competing for nutrients and also will not crowd one another once they fully mature.

There are many books available on companion gardening as well as several websites.  A good website that will give you quite a bit of information on companion planting is:

http://www.gardenguides.com/TipsandTechniques/vcomp.htm

A good reference book is "Carrots Love Tomatoes" by Louise Riotte.  I am also attaching a website that will give you information on this book.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1580170277/ref=sim_books/104-1453096-8173559?n=...

I hope this answered your question.  Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike