How to Put Lime on Tomato Plants

If you want healthy tomato plants with lots of juicy fruit, you need to ensure that the soil they grow in is healthy too. One way to do this is by putting lime on your tomato plants. Lime is an excellent source of calcium, which helps to build strong cell walls and helps the plants take up water and nutrients. Lime can also help balance the pH level of the soil, making it more alkaline and less acidic. Here are some tips for putting lime on tomato plants:

Choose the Right Time

The best time to put lime on your tomato plants is in the fall or winter, before you plant them. This gives the lime plenty of time to work its magic and create a healthy soil environment for your tomato plants. If you miss this window, you can still put lime on your plants during the growing season, but be careful not to do it when the plants are actively growing or flowering. The best time is when the plants are just starting to sprout, or during a resting period between harvests.

Prepare the Soil

Before you put lime on your tomato plants, you need to prepare the soil. Start by testing the pH level of the soil using a soil testing kit. If the pH is too acidic (below 6.0), you will need to add lime. If the pH is too alkaline (above 7.0), you will need to add sulfur or peat moss to lower the pH level. Once you know your soil's pH level, you can calculate how much lime to add. Use a garden hoe or rake to mix the lime into the soil, making sure it is evenly distributed.

Apply the Lime

To apply lime to your tomato plants, use a garden spreader. Set the spreader to the recommended setting for your lime product, and then walk slowly up and down each row of tomato plants, spreading the lime evenly over the soil. Be sure to get the lime right up to the base of the plants, but avoid getting any on the leaves or fruit. Once you have spread the lime, use a garden rake to gently mix it into the soil.

Water the Plants

After you have applied the lime to your tomato plants, water them well. This will help the lime to penetrate the soil and start working its magic. You should also water the plants regularly throughout the growing season, to ensure they get enough moisture and nutrients. Avoid getting water on the leaves or fruit, as this can cause them to rot or develop fungal diseases.

Monitor the Plants

After you have put lime on your tomato plants, it's important to monitor them regularly for any signs of problems. Check the leaves for yellowing, which can be a sign of too much sun or too much water. Look for any signs of pests or diseases, such as aphids, spider mites, or blight. If you notice any problems, take action right away to prevent them from spreading.

Conclusion

Putting lime on your tomato plants is an easy and effective way to improve the health of your soil and get a better harvest. By choosing the right time, preparing the soil, applying the lime, watering the plants, and monitoring them regularly, you can ensure that your tomato plants grow strong, healthy, and produce lots of juicy, delicious fruit.