Introduction

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables (though some would say they are fruit) grown in home gardens. Growing healthy and tasty tomatoes requires not only good soil, proper watering and sunlight, but also appropriate care and use of the right products. In this article, we will discuss what to use on tomato plants to maximize their yield and health.

Organic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizers are the best option when it comes to feeding tomato plants. Animal manure, such as chicken, cow or horse droppings, is a great source of nutrients, especially nitrogen. They should be composted prior to being used in order to allow the nutrients to properly break down and become available to the plant. Other forms of organic fertilizers include bone meal, fish emulsion, and compost.

Pesticides and Insecticides

Tomatoes are often plagued by pests and diseases, making diligent attention necessary for success. Neem oil, a natural insecticide, can help control aphids, spider mites and other pests. Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis), a naturally occurring soil bacterium, quickly kills off tomato hornworms without harming beneficial insects. Copper-based fungicides can be used to help prevent early blight, a common fungal disease affecting tomato plants. Remember to always read the label of any pesticide or insecticide product you are considering, and follow the instructions carefully.

Staking and Supports

Tomatoes are a vine plant and can grow to be quite tall. This means that, without support, they can easily break and suffer damage. Staking, caging or trellising should be used even for dwarf tomato varieties. Stakes can be made of bamboo or wooden dowels, and should be at least six feet tall so that they stick out of the ground by two feet. Tie the tomato plant to the stakes using a soft twine to avoid cutting into the plant stem. Another option for support are cages made of metal or wire, which can be slipped over the plant and supported by stakes.

Mulching

Adding mulch to the soil around tomato plants has several benefits. It helps retain moisture in the soil, which is important since tomatoes require regular watering. Mulch also helps to suppress weeds, which can compete with tomato plants for nutrients and water. In addition, it helps maintain a steady soil temperature and can protect against soil-borne diseases. The best mulch materials for tomato plants include straw, grass clippings, and black plastic film.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a versatile and healthy vegetable that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Taking care of them properly during their growth cycle ensures a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes for use in salads, sandwiches, sauces and more. Using the right products, such as organic fertilizers, natural pesticides, support structures and mulching materials can help maximize yield and protect against pest and disease threats.