What to Put in the Hole Before Planting Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a beloved garden staple for many home gardeners. In order to ensure healthy and productive plants, it’s important to prepare the soil properly before planting. One important step in this process is deciding what to put in the hole before planting your tomato seedling. Here are some options to consider:

Compost or Organic Matter

Compost or organic matter is a very popular option for adding nutrients to the soil. This can be anything from homemade compost to commercial soil amendments. It’s important to note that this option should only be used if your soil is lacking in organic matter. If your soil is already rich in organic matter, then adding more could cause problems down the line.

Bone Meal or Phosphorus

Bone meal or phosphorus can be added to the hole before planting to promote healthy root growth. Tomatoes are a heavy feeder and require a lot of nutrients to thrive. Phosphorus is especially important for developing strong roots, so this can be a good option if your soil is lacking in this nutrient.

Eggshells

Eggshells are a great natural source of calcium which is important for preventing blossom end rot in tomatoes. You can crush up your used eggshells and add them to the hole before planting. This is also a great way to recycle kitchen waste and improve your soil at the same time.

Fish Emulsion or Liquid Fertilizer

Fish emulsion or liquid fertilizer can be added to the hole before planting to give your tomato seedling a boost of nutrients. This option is especially useful for plants that are grown in containers or raised beds where the soil may not be as nutrient-rich as in-ground gardens.

Mulch

Adding a layer of mulch around your tomato plants can help conserve moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from sprouting. Mulch also provides a slow release of nutrients over time which can help feed your plants throughout the growing season. This can be added after planting, but it’s important to make sure not to smother the plant stem.

Ultimately, what you choose to put in the hole before planting your tomatoes will depend on the specific needs of your soil and the type of plant you’re growing. Experiment with different options and see what works best for your garden. With a little bit of preparation, you can ensure a bountiful harvest of delicious homegrown tomatoes.