What to Do with Spent Tomato Plants

As the growing season comes to an end, it’s time to start thinking about what to do with spent tomato plants. While you might be tempted to simply toss them in the trash, there are actually several ways to repurpose them that can benefit both your garden and the environment.

1. Compost Them

One of the best things you can do with spent tomato plants is to compost them. Composting is the process of breaking down organic matter (such as plants) into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. By composting your spent tomato plants, you’re essentially turning them into fertilizer that you can use to nourish your garden in the future.

Before composting your tomato plants, be sure to remove any diseased plant material (such as leaves or fruit) so you don’t inadvertently spread any diseases in your compost pile. You can then cut up the remaining plant material and add it to your compost bin or pile.

2. Till Them into Your Soil

If you don’t have a compost pile or bin, you can also till your spent tomato plants directly into your garden soil. By doing so, you’ll be adding organic matter to your soil, which can improve its texture, fertility, and water retention.

However, it’s important to note that tilling can also disrupt the natural structure of your soil, so it’s best to do this sparingly and only when necessary.

3. Chop Them Up and Mulch Your Garden

Another way to repurpose your spent tomato plants is by chopping them up and using them as mulch in your garden. Mulch is a layer of material (such as leaves, hay, or in this case, tomato plants) that you lay on top of your soil to help regulate its temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds.

To use tomato plants as mulch, simply chop them up into small pieces and spread them around the base of your plants. Be sure not to pile them too high or too close to the stems, as this can trap moisture and cause your plants to rot.

4. Save Seeds for Next Year

If you’re particularly invested in your tomato plants and want to ensure you get the same variety next year, you can also save the seeds from your spent plants. To do this, simply scoop out the seeds from a ripe tomato and lay them out to dry on a paper towel. Once they’re dry, store them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant them next year.

Conclusion

Don’t let your spent tomato plants go to waste! Instead, consider composting them, tilling them into your soil, using them as mulch, or saving their seeds for next year. By taking these simple steps, you can minimize waste and give your garden a natural boost of nutrients.