Introduction
Tomatoes are a popular and versatile fruit that can be used in many dishes. However, tomato plants are also vulnerable to various diseases and pests. One way to prevent these problems is by spraying calcium solution onto the tomato plants. In this article, we will discuss whether or not you should spray tomato plants with calcium solution.
What is calcium solution?
Calcium solution is a liquid that contains calcium, which is an essential nutrient for plants. It helps strengthen plant cell walls and prevents diseases and pests from attacking the plant. Calcium can be obtained from various sources such as limestone, gypsum, or eggshells, which are then dissolved in water to create a calcium solution.
What are the benefits of spraying tomato plants with calcium solution?
There are several benefits of using calcium solution on tomato plants:
It helps prevent blossom end rot, which is a common problem for tomato plants. Blossom end rot is a condition where the end of the tomato fruit turns black or brown and becomes mushy. This happens when there is a calcium deficiency in the plant.
It strengthens the plant cell walls, making the plant more resistant to diseases and pests.
It improves the quality and taste of the tomatoes by preventing them from becoming mealy or soft.
When should you spray calcium solution on tomato plants?
The best time to spray calcium solution on tomato plants is when they are in the early stages of growth, specifically when the first flowers appear. This is because the calcium will help prevent blossom end rot from occurring. You should also spray the plants after heavy rain or when the soil is excessively wet, as water can wash away the calcium in the soil.
How to make and apply calcium solution to tomato plants
To make calcium solution, you will need to dissolve a source of calcium in water. Here are some examples:
Crushed eggshells: Soak 12 eggshells in a gallon of water for 2-3 days, then strain the solution through a cheesecloth.
Gypsum: Mix 2-3 tablespoons of gypsum in a gallon of water until completely dissolved.
Limestone: Mix 2-3 tablespoons of limestone in a gallon of water until completely dissolved.
To apply the calcium solution, use a spray bottle to evenly spray the solution onto the leaves and stem of the tomato plant. Be sure to cover the plant thoroughly without drenching it.
Conclusion
Overall, spraying tomato plants with calcium solution can provide many benefits such as preventing blossom end rot and improving the quality of the tomatoes. It is best to apply the solution when the plants are in the early stages of growth and after heavy rain. By following these tips, you can have healthy and thriving tomato plants in your garden.