Introduction

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in a home garden. Not only are they delicious and versatile, but they are also packed with vitamins and minerals. In order to grow healthy and robust tomato plants, it is important to give them a good start by planting them in nutrient-rich soil. In this article, we will explore what you should put on soil when planting tomatoes for best results.

The Basics of Tomato Soil

When it comes to growing tomatoes, soil quality is critical. The ideal tomato soil is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and has a slightly acidic pH level (between 6.0 and 6.8). Before planting your tomatoes, it's important to prepare the soil properly by tilling, clearing any weeds, and amending with compost or other organic matter.

Compost

One of the best things you can add to your tomato soil is compost. Compost is a natural, nutrient-rich soil conditioner that will improve water retention, soil structure, and provide a slow release of nutrients to your plants. You can make your own compost by starting a compost pile in your backyard, or you can purchase compost from a garden center or nursery. When adding compost to your soil, aim for an even spread of about two to three inches.

Bone Meal

Another great addition to your tomato soil is bone meal. Bone meal is made from crushed animal bones and is a great source of phosphorus. Phosphorus is important for root development, and since tomatoes are heavy feeders, they need a lot of it. You can add bone meal to your soil before planting, or you can apply it as a side dressing throughout the growing season. Aim for about one pound of bone meal per 100 square feet of soil.

Eggshells

Eggshells are another natural source of calcium, which is important for tomato development. Calcium helps to prevent blossom-end rot, a common problem for tomatoes. To use eggshells in your tomato soil, crush them up and sprinkle them over the soil before planting. You can also add them to your compost pile to create a calcium-rich compost.

Epsom Salt

One final addition to consider is Epsom salt. Epsom salt is high in magnesium, which is important for photosynthesis and overall plant health. You can add Epsom salt to your soil before planting, or you can apply it as a foliar spray during the growing season. To use as a soil amendment, mix about two tablespoons of Epsom salt per gallon of water and apply to the soil once a month.

Conclusion

Growing tomatoes can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, and starting with nutrient-rich soil is key to achieving healthy and thriving plants. By adding compost, bone meal, eggshells, and Epsom salt to your soil, you can provide your tomatoes with the nutrients they need to grow strong and productive. Happy planting!