What to Put Around Your Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a favorite crop for many gardeners, but they can also be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. To help protect your tomato plants and ensure a successful harvest, it’s important to put the right materials and substances around them. Here are some suggestions:

1. Mulch

Mulch is a layer of organic material that is added to the top of soil to help regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. Applying mulch around tomato plants can prevent soil-born diseases like blight and keep the soil warm and moist, which is important for healthy root development. Straw, grass clippings, and leaves are all good options for mulching around tomato plants.

2. Compost

Compost is a nutrient-rich material that can be added to soil to improve soil health and fertility. Tomato plants are heavy feeders, meaning they require a lot of nutrients to produce fruit. Adding compost around the base of tomato plants can provide a slow-release source of nutrients throughout the growing season. Simply sprinkle compost around the base of each plant and mix it into the soil.

3. Eggshells

Eggshells are a natural source of calcium, a mineral that tomato plants need to produce strong cell walls and prevent blossom end rot. Crushed eggshells can be sprinkled around the base of tomato plants or added to the planting hole when transplanting seedlings. Over time, the eggshells will break down and release calcium into the soil.

4. Seaweed

Seaweed is a nutrient-rich material that can be applied as a liquid fertilizer or added to the soil. Seaweed contains trace minerals, like iron and zinc, which are essential for tomato plant growth and development. Seaweed can also help improve soil structure and fight off diseases. To use seaweed as a fertilizer, dilute it in water and apply it directly to the soil around tomato plants.

5. Marigolds

Marigolds are known for their ability to repel pests like nematodes, small worms that can damage tomato plant roots. Planting marigolds around the perimeter of your tomato bed can help keep nematodes at bay. Marigolds can also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control other pests like aphids and whiteflies.

Conclusion

By using these materials and substances around your tomato plants, you can help create a healthy and productive growing environment. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to tomato plant care, experimenting with different methods can help you find what works best for your soil type and climate. Happy gardening!