Does Weed and Feed Hurt Tomato Plants?

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable in home gardens, and gardeners often use weed and feed products to control weeds and fertilize their lawns. However, many gardeners wonder if weed and feed can also harm their tomato plants. In this article, we will explore whether weed and feed can hurt tomato plants and provide some tips for safe use.

What is Weed and Feed?

Weed and feed is a lawn care product that combines fertilizer and herbicides. It is designed to fertilize your lawn while killing weeds at the same time. Weed and feed products usually contain two or three types of herbicides that target different kinds of weeds. They also contain slow-release nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to promote lawn growth.

How Does Weed and Feed Work?

Weed and feed products work by absorbing through the leaves and roots of the weeds. The herbicides target the weeds' growing points, making it difficult for them to grow and reproduce. The fertilizers then promote the growth of the lawn, filling in any bare spots left by the dead weeds. The slow-release fertilizers also reduce the chances of nutrient leaching, which can cause pollution in water bodies.

Can Weed and Feed Hurt Tomato Plants?

Weed and feed products are designed for use on lawns, not garden beds. Therefore, they are not recommended for use around tomato plants. The herbicides in weed and feed products can harm tomato plants, especially if they are applied incorrectly or in large amounts.

The chemicals in weed and feed can seep into the soil and harm the tomato roots. They can also harm the leaves and stems of the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. In severe cases, the tomato plant may die. Moreover, the nitrogen in weed and feed can stimulate excessive foliage growth, making the plant vulnerable to pests and diseases.

How to Keep Tomato Plants Safe from Weed and Feed

If you decide to use weed and feed on your lawn, be sure to avoid getting it on your tomato plants. Here are some tips to keep your tomato plants safe:

Read the label carefully and follow the instructions for use. Do not apply weed and feed to garden beds or areas where tomato plants are growing.

Apply weed and feed on a calm day when there is no wind. This will prevent the product from drifting onto your tomato plants.

Water your lawn after applying weed and feed. This will help to dilute any residue that may have landed on your tomato plants.

Try using organic fertilizers and natural weed control methods instead of weed and feed. These products are safer for the environment and do not harm tomato plants.

In Conclusion

Weed and feed is a popular lawn care product that can help control weeds and fertilize your lawn. However, it is not recommended for use around tomato plants. The herbicides in weed and feed can harm tomato plants, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and even death. To keep your tomato plants safe, read the label, apply on a calm day, water your lawn, and consider organic fertilizers instead.