When Planting Tomatoes, What Do You Put in the Hole?

Introduction

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables (although technically it's a fruit) to grow in a vegetable garden. They are easy to grow, taste delicious, and come in a variety of shapes and colors. However, to get the best fruits, it's essential to understand what you should put in the hole when planting tomatoes. In this article, we'll discuss the different materials that can be used to prepare the soil for healthy tomato plants.

Compost

Add compost to the bottom of the hole before planting the tomato seedling. Compost is rich in nutrients and can help improve soil structure, encouraging stronger root development in tomato plants. Adding compost to the soil also increases its ability to retain moisture, which is essential for the healthy growth of tomato plants. If you don't have access to compost, you can purchase it from a local nursery or garden center.

Fertilizer

Another essential material to add to the hole when planting tomatoes is fertilizer. The fertilizer should contain a balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, commonly represented as NPK. Nitrogen is essential for leaf growth; phosphorus plays a critical role in root development, flowering, and fruiting, while potassium is necessary for overall plant vigor. Apply the fertilizer to the bottom of the hole and mix it into the soil to ensure it's evenly incorporated.

Bone Meal

Bone meal is a slow-release fertilizer that can be used to add phosphorus to the soil. It's an excellent supplement to add when planting tomatoes since it helps promote healthy root growth. Bone meal is also an organic fertilizer, making it ideal for those looking for an alternative to synthetic fertilizers.

Eggshells

Eggshells are a natural source of calcium and can be used to supplement the soil when planting tomatoes. Calcium is essential for strong cell walls in the plant, which can help prevent blossom end rot in tomatoes. To add eggshells to the soil, grind them into a powder and sprinkle them into the hole before planting the tomato seedling.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes is a relatively simple process, but to get the best results, it's essential to provide the right growing conditions. Adding compost, fertilizer, bone meal, and eggshells to the hole before planting the tomato seedling can help promote healthy growth and increase yields. Remember, healthy soil means healthy plants, so take the time to prepare the soil correctly when planting tomatoes.