How to Side Dress Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in a home garden. They are relatively easy to care for, but one important step in their maintenance is side dressing. Side dressing is the application of fertilizer alongside the plant's stem, usually during the growing season. This article will outline step-by-step instructions on how to side dress tomato plants.

When to Side Dress Tomato Plants

The best time to side dress your tomato plants is when they are actively growing and beginning to flower. This is usually around 4-5 weeks after transplanting. However, if you missed the opportunity, no worries! You can still side dress during the growing cycle.

What to Use for Side Dressing Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require a lot of nutrients, especially during the growing season. The ideal fertilizer to use for side dressing tomato plants is balanced, slow-release granules. These types of fertilizers will gradually release the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium your plants need for an extended period. Other options include a mixture of compost, bone meal, and blood meal.

How to Side Dress Tomato Plants

Step 1: Clear away any weeds or debris around the base of the tomato plant.

Step 2: Use a garden hoe or cultivator to create a shallow trench about 2-3 inches away from the base of the tomato plant. The trench should be about 3-4 inches deep.

Step 3: Add your fertilizer to the trench according to the package instructions. Generally, you should apply 1-2 cups of fertilizer around each plant depending on its size.

Step 4: Use a garden rake to fill in the trench and cover the fertilizer. Be careful not to disturb the roots or stem of the plant. The fertilizer should be covered with 1-2 inches of soil.

Step 5: Water the plants well after applying the fertilizer. This helps the nutrients to reach the roots and begin nourishing the plant.

Additional Tips for Side Dressing Tomato Plants

When side dressing your tomato plants, avoid getting fertilizer directly on the leaves, as this can burn them. Instead, aim for the soil. Be sure to follow the instructions provided on the fertilizer package, as different types will have varying application rates. Finally, it's a good idea to side dress your tomato plants every 3-4 weeks during the growing season to ensure they have the proper nutrients they need to thrive.

By following these simple steps, you will be on your way to growing healthy and fruitful tomato plants.