Pomato: When Plants Combine for Efficiency and Fun
The “pomato” is not a product of genetic modification, but rather a remarkable result of plant grafting — a technique that allows two plants to grow together as one. As the name suggests, a pomato plant produces tomatoes above ground and potatoes below. This fascinating botanical innovation is a combination of a tomato plant (Solanum lycopersicum) and a potato plant (Solanum tuberosum), both of which belong to the nightshade family (Solanaceae).
Pomato plants are created by carefully grafting the upper part (scion) of a tomato plant onto the root system (rootstock) of a potato plant. Since these two species are closely related, their vascular systems can fuse, allowing nutrients and water to flow between them. This means gardeners can harvest cherry tomatoes from the vines and potatoes from the soil — all from a single plant!
One of the major advantages of pomato plants is space-saving. For people with limited gardening space, such as urban dwellers or balcony gardeners, pomatos offer a compact and efficient solution. Instead of planting separate tomato and potato plants, a single pomato can yield both crops. Additionally, the novelty of growing two vegetables from one plant makes pomatos an educational and engaging project for families and schools.
Grafting itself is an ancient agricultural technique, used for centuries to improve crop resilience and productivity. However, pomato plants are not naturally occurring; they require manual grafting by a skilled gardener. It’s important to note that the graft does not blend the DNA of the two plants — they remain genetically distinct, simply sharing a physical connection.
Despite their uniqueness, pomato plants are not typically available in regular nurseries. They are usually sold by specialty gardening companies or created by enthusiasts at home. To grow a pomato successfully, it’s essential to maintain consistent moisture levels and provide a support structure for the tomato vines. Since both tomatoes and potatoes are heavy feeders, they also require nutrient-rich soil and regular fertilization.
While pomato plants are not necessarily more productive than growing tomatoes and potatoes separately, the novelty, educational value, and efficient use of space make them highly appealing. For those interested in sustainable gardening or simply adding a bit of botanical curiosity to their home, pomatos are a wonderful choice.
