What Do Commercial Growers Use to Fertilize Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables worldwide, and their demand continues to increase annually. To ensure that they get high yields of healthy and nutritious tomatoes, commercial growers use different fertilizer products. Fertilizers provide tomato plants with essential nutrients, minerals, and elements to grow, develop, and produce quality fruits. In this article, we will explore the fertilizers that commercial growers use to grow tomato plants.

Organic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizers are a popular choice among commercial tomato growers because they are made of natural materials. They contain essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are slowly released into the soil. Organic fertilizers improve soil fertility, soil structure, and soil health. Compost, animal manure, fish emulsion, and seaweed are examples of organic fertilizers that commercial growers use. Organic fertilizers are environment-friendly, sustainable, and are safe for human consumption.

Inorganic Fertilizers

Inorganic fertilizers are synthetic fertilizers that contain high levels of essential nutrients. They are available in different forms, including granules, powders, and liquid forms. Inorganic fertilizers are fast-acting and provide immediate nutrients to the tomato plants. They contain essential macronutrients and micronutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Commercial growers use inorganic fertilizers like ammonium nitrate, urea, and ammonium phosphate. Inorganic fertilizers are efficient, less bulky, and more shelf-stable compared to organic fertilizers. However, they can cause environmental pollution if not properly managed.

Slow-Release fertilizers

Slow-release fertilizers are a blend of both organic and inorganic fertilizers. They release nutrients slowly over time, providing a constant supply of nutrients to the tomato plants. Slow-release fertilizers are available in different forms, including granules, prills, and coatings. They provide long-term benefits to the soil, unlike fast-acting inorganic fertilizers. Commercial growers use slow-release fertilizers like sulfur-coated urea, polymer-coated urea, and controlled-release fertilizers. Slow-release fertilizers are efficient, cost-effective, and have fewer environmental impacts.

Liquid Fertilizers

Liquid fertilizers are popular among commercial tomato growers because they are easy to apply through irrigation or foliar feeding. Liquid fertilizers are quick in action and provide immediate nutrients to the tomato plants. They are composed of essential macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, with micronutrients like iron, zinc, and manganese. Commercial growers use liquid fertilizers like fish emulsion, seaweed extracts, and hydrolyzed vegetable protein. Liquid fertilizers are efficient, convenient, and provide a rapid nutrient boost to the tomato plants.

Conclusion

Tomatoes thrive in nutrient-rich soils, and commercial growers use different fertilizers to provide the essential nutrients that the tomato plants require. Organic fertilizers are preferred due to their sustainability and environmental-friendliness, while inorganic fertilizers provide immediate nutrients to the tomato plants. Slow-release fertilizers offer a long-lasting supply of nutrients, while liquid fertilizers provide a quick nutrient boost to the tomato plants. Depending on the grower's preference, tomato plants can be fertilized bi-weekly, monthly or during specific stages of growth.