13 Best Fertilizers for Tomatoes of 2023 [Buyer’s Guide]
Have you been trying to grow tomatoes but wondering why they’re not growing plump and juicy? They might do better with fertilizers. Sure, store-bought tomatoes are often unbelievably juicy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t grow them yourself. When it comes to producing succulent tomatoes, you need to take care of a few essential things. […]
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Have you been trying to grow tomatoes but wondering why they’re not growing plump and juicy? They might do better with fertilizers.
Sure, store-bought tomatoes are often unbelievably juicy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t grow them yourself. When it comes to producing succulent tomatoes, you need to take care of a few essential things.
Adding fertilizer to your tomato plant can ensure that it receives all the macronutrients it requires. Moreover, it is an easy and convenient process that doesn’t take much effort on your part.
But the sheer number of fertilizers in the market can be overwhelming. To make your search simpler, we have curated this list of our top 13 recommendations. We also added a short guide to help you select the best fertilizer for your fruit.
So, without further ado, let’s get straight to the deets!
Best Fertilizers For Tomatoes
Whether you prefer organic options, slow-release formulations, or water-soluble fertilizers, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re ready to give your tomatoes the nourishment they deserve, here’s the list of the 13 best fertilizers for tomatoes to help you make an informed choice.
1. Miracle-Gro Shake’ n Feed – Best for Easy Application
One of our top recommendations is the Miracle-Gro Shake’ n Feed plant food. This fertilizer is a favorite amongst most gardeners primarily because of its ease of use. Packed with macronutrients and natural ingredients, this plant food has been designed to help your tomatoes grow healthier. Also, it allows continuous feeding for up to 3 months.
- Contains natural ingredients to feed microbes in the soil
- Specially formulated with micronutrients to help plants grow...
Why Did We Like It?
Many gardeners shy away from using fertilizers for several reasons. They might be too harsh for their soil, or they may be inconvenient to use. But you need not worry about that with Miracle-Gro Shake’ n Feed.
This fertilizer comes in a ready-to-use 4.5 lb container. You need to apply it just once in three months, along with regular watering of your plants to ensure proper growth. Moreover, the recommended rate of application is ½ cup per 10 square feet, which eliminates wastage.
Coming to its convenience of use, the fertilizer can be applied straight out of the bottle. There is no need to pre-mix or apply anything else to it. Simply pour the recommended amount on the soil, gently mixing it in, and continue watering your tomatoes.
The mix contains kelp, earthworm castings, feather meal, bone meal, and calcium. All these ingredients help tomatoes grow healthy and plump.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Honestly, this fertilizer is excellent and does the job well. Since it is a slow-release formula, it doesn’t burn the roots. That being said, it’s important to water the plant continues to avoid frying the roots. You might need to apply more (or less) than the recommended dose for optimal results.
- Slow-release fertilizer doesn’t burn the roots
- Easy to apply
- No harsh chemicals
- Fast-working formula
- Might need to increase or reduce the recommended dose
2. Jobe’s Tomato Fertilizer Spikes – Best Mess-Free Solution
Our next recommendation is a fertilizer in the form of spikes that are super convenient and prove to be a mess-free solution. Jobe’s Tomato Fertilizer Spikes come in a pack of 18 pre-measured spikes, enabling you to enjoy a hassle-free and easy experience. Plus, the spikes eliminate runoffs, hazards, and funny odors.
- Pre-measured fertilizer spikes nourishes at the roots; time...
- Easy to use fertilizer spikes; no wasteful runoff, no mess,...
Why Did We Like It?
Feeding fertilizers to your beloved tomato plants doesn’t have to be an ordeal anymore. Jobe’s Tomato Fertilizer Spikes have been designed especially for convenience. The pre-measured spikes can be inserted into the soil and left there to feed macronutrients to tomato plants slowly.
The best part about these fertilizer spikes is that they provide a mess-free experience. There is no runoff, no toxicity, and no hazards. Moreover, the spikes don’t have any offensive odors that will make the soil or your fruits smell funky.
Each spike feeds tomatoes for about eight weeks, after which you can reapply a new spike. There are a total of 18 spikes in each package.
Lastly, if you’re worried about storing the spikes safely – don’t be. The manufacturer has thought of that too! Each package is waterproof and resealable, enabling you to store the spikes without worrying about them wasting away.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although these spikes claim to have all the necessary macronutrients for growing healthy tomatoes, we did notice an ingredient was missing – calcium. This ingredient is essential for blooming tomatoes, and without it, it seems like a significant ingredient has been left out.
- Easy to use
- Slow-release formula
- Fast working results
- Each spike is long-lasting
- Does not contain calcium
3. Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer – Best Organic Granular Fertilizer
If you prefer using organic fertilizers for your beloved tomato plants, then Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer might be an ideal product. This fertilizer comes in a granular form, making it convenient to spread evenly in the soil. With no synthetic chemicals, fertilizer is one of the best ways of feeding macronutrients to tomato plants.
- Organic granular fertilizer; Fast acting fertilizer for...
- OMRI listed for organic gardening by USDA; Certified organic...
Why Did We Like It?
In our opinion, having an OMRI listing by the USDA for use in organic gardening practices is an essential factor and advantageous. This made us inherently trust the brand, but we decided to test it on our tomatoes to see the results.
Well, we were impressed by its initial response. The easy-pour bag is filled with granular, organic fertilizer. Since the bag is resealable, we weren’t worried about the contents getting spoilt over time.
The 2-5-3 ratio of NPK assured us that our tomato plants would thrive – since lesser nitrogen and more phosphorus is ideal. If you have nitrogen-rich soil, then your tomatoes will love the addition of this organic fertilizer.
Coming to the special Jobe Biozome – this is a proprietary microorganism that is innately aggressive. It breaks down the materials, giving faster results in a short period of time. Furthermore, the fertilizer’s granular form makes it easier to spread around the roots of the plants.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Since the product is organic, it has a certain smell that isn’t largely pleasant to humans, but curiosity evoking to pets. In simple words, – you will hate the smell, but your pets might love it. We recommend that you store the product in a safe place where your pets can get in.
- Fast-working solution
- Easy to pour bag
- Can be used for a long time
- Completely organic and natural
- Has a funky smell
4. Fox Farm Grow Big Liquid Concentrate Fertilizer – Best for Low-Nitrogen Soils
As the name suggests, Fox Farm has developed a fertilizer that helps your tomato plants grow big, lush, and juicy in no time. The formula is concentrated, which means that you’ll have to dilute it before using it. However, the overwhelming results make this extra step worth your time and effort.
- Get your garden going with grow big, Foxfarm's liquid...
- Grow big contains earthworm castings, Norwegian kelp and...
Why Did We Like It?
At first, we were a little skeptical about using this liquid fertilizer. Since it only comes in a concentrated formula, we were scared that it might burn the tomato plants’ roots. It is important to properly dilute the formula with adequate water before applying it to the plants.
Well, the results speak for themselves. This fertilizer formula comes in an NPK ratio of 6-4-4. Simply, this means that the proportion of nitrogen is more than phosphorus – which is excellent. This fertilizer is ideal for use in soils that have low nitrogen content.
The amount of liquid fertilizer you need to use is minimal – about two teaspoons per gallon of water. This ensures that the plant’s roots don’t burn and make the product last for a long time.
If you apply this to new plantings, make sure to let them settle in first before using this fertilizer.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although the product mentions the word ‘organic’ in it, the manufacturer refers to organic growing and not the product itself. So if you were looking for organic fertilizer, this might not be the best option, as it is a synthetic fertilizer.
- Need to use very little product
- Ideal for low-nitrogen soils
- Product is long-lasting
- Very easy to use
- Contains synthetic ingredients
5. Organic Plant Magic Fertilizer – Best for Seedlings & All Soil Types
For our next recommendation, we bring you a completely organic fertilizer for your beautiful tomato garden. This formula works on all types of soil without requiring any additives or additional products. Moreover, since it is organic, it is entirely safe to have around pets and children.
- New Package - Same Amazing Product that Plants & Customers...
- EASY & ALL PURPOSE - Simply grow healthy plants and...
Why Did We Like It?
An organic fertilizer that guarantees to help you produce lush, full-blooming, tasty, and vibrant tomatoes sounds promising. We decided to test the product for you and tell you the results.
First things first, this fertilizer is super easy and convenient to use. All you need to do is add water, mix it up well, and use it on the soil. No matter what kind of soil you have, be it loamy, sandy, or clay, this fertilizer has been designed to produce excellent results on all of them.
The fertilizer contains various beneficial macronutrients that can help tomato plants grow taller and healthier, and even enhance their color and flavor. One of the best things about this organic fertilizer is the fact that you can start using it even when your plant is just seedling.
Many other fertilizers recommend that you wait a few weeks or months before adding them. However, this completely natural and safe fertilizer can be used right from the start.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Like many other organic fertilizers, this product also has a natural odor, which is not entirely pleasant. Many users might find this smell very offensive. We recommend using a light face mask during the time you mix and apply this fertilizer, in case the smell is too unpleasant.
- Zipper lock pack to protect contents
- No synthetic or chemical ingredients
- Can be used directly or by mixing
- Doesn’t break down salts in the soil
- Smells unpleasant
6. Greenway Biotech Tomato Fertilizer
Wrapped in a heavy 5-pound bag, this fertilizer from Greenway Biotech is an excellent choice for those who are looking to grow ripe, luscious tomatoes in their gardens. One pack will last you through 1,000 gallons of fertilizer. It contains no heavy metals or harmful chemical ingredients.
- TOMATO FERTILIZER: 5-pounds of Greenway Biotech can make up...
- HYDROPONIC SYSTEM: The hydroponics fertilizer is perfect for...
Why Did We Like It?
First and foremost, this fertilizer is 100% water-soluble, making it very convenient to make. The large five-pound bag is long-lasting. Moreover, you can reseal the bag and use the fertilizer as per your requirements. The ingredients in the fertilizer bag won’t spoil so you can remain worry-free.
Coming to its blend, the fertilizer contains 4% Nitrogen, 18% Phosphorous & 38% Potassium. It also has other ingredients such as Boron, Copper EDTA, Iron EDTA, Manganese EDTA, Zinc EDTA, and Molybdenum. Furthermore, it is excellent for use in nitrogen-rich soil.
This exact mixture makes it ideal for use in hydroponics and soil. Since it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals and heavy metals, it is entirely safe to use. You don’t need to worry about using this fertilizer around children or pets.
The fertilizer mix contains all the essential macronutrients required by your tomato plants. The rich blend of ingredients ensures that the tomatoes grow healthy and rich.
What Could’ve Been Better?
As we mentioned earlier, this fertilizer doesn’t contain any heavy materials or harmful chemicals. That being said, we must note that the fertilizer is not certified organic either. Now, if you are looking for an entirely organic-based fertilizer, then this might not be the ideal option for your tomato garden.
- Comprehensive instruction manual included
- Good for nitrogen-rich soil
- No harmful chemicals
- Can make 1,000 gallons of fertilizer
- Not a certified organic product
7. Neptune’s Harvest Organic Hydrolized Fish & Seaweed Fertilizer
A special fertilizer formula made of seaweed and hydrolyzed fish – this product is excellent for fertilization. Although it comes with a higher amount of phosphorus, it is ideal for most soil types and produces bountiful results. Mixing and applying the product is effortless. You can use a drip line, or a sprayer, or simply mix it by hand.
- Grow a beautiful vegetable garden
- Flowers and foliage will be stronger and more colorful
Why Did We Like It?
When we read that this fertilizer has higher amounts of phosphorus, we were slightly skeptical about using it. The 2-3-1 ratio also meant that we had to use more fertilizer compared to other products we have used.
However, on using this fertilizer for our tomato garden, we noticed a significant change in its produce. The tomatoes were more vibrant, fragrant, plump, and juicy. The ingredients used (hydrolyzed fish and seaweed) produce fantastic results on varieties of plants and flowers.
Coming to ease of use, this product can be easily mixed by hand. Moreover, you can apply it to your tomato plants with the help of a sprayer, a drip line, or even do it manually if you wish to.
Applying this fertilizer just once in 2 to 3 weeks is enough to produce brilliant results. You may have to use it more often, depending on the results you notice.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Since the fertilizer is made of fish and seaweed, you can imagine the kind of smells it naturally brings with it. Well, for many people, this might be a deal-breaker. The smell is indeed quite strong and can take some getting used to.
- Certified organic
- Can be used around pets and children
- You can apply it using various easy methods
- The ingredients are long-lasting
- Has a powerful stench
8. MasterBlend Complete Combo Kit Fertilizer Bulk
For those who are looking for a complete solution to keep their tomato plants healthy and thriving, you won’t regret choosing MasterBlend. This fertilizer combo kit is a complete package for all the nutrient needs of your tomatoes. The combo kit features a variety of products, all catered towards nourishing your garden.
- MasterBlend 4-18-38 Master Kit (3 Separate Components in...
- Contains MasterBlend 4-18-38, Calcium Nitrate 15.5-0-0, and...
Why Did We Like It?
The first thing we want to mention about this product is that professionals widely use it. This just tells us that they trust this combo kit, and maybe we should too. Of course, we couldn’t just blindly believe the reviews, so we decided to check it out independently.
All the products in this combo kit are entirely water-soluble. This made it super convenient for us to mix and apply to our tomato plants. Moreover, there is a variety of products and ingredients to choose from – according to your plants’ requirements.
Although the ingredients are not nitrogen-rich, there is a high amount of calcium nitrate – which makes up for it. There is also Epsom Salt included in the pack. You can apply this back into the soil to restore the sodium which the soil has lost.
Finally, the product can last for a long time, but the bags are not resealable – so keep this in mind.
What Could’ve Been Better?
As we mentioned, the products are long-lasting, but the bags are not. When you open a bag, you will need to find an appropriate airtight container to store the fertilizer in. Also, the nitrogen content is a little low, so this product is best used in soils that already have a high nitrogen level.
- A variety pack for all your plant’s requirements
- Easy to use
- Epsom salt included
- All products in one pack
- Non-resealable bags
9. Miracle-Gro Tomato Plant Food
As you may have already noticed, we have added several products from Miracle-Gro to our list. That is because this brand creates fertilizers for your tomatoes that actually work. Well, our next recommendation is Miracle-Gro Tomato Plant Food. Let us tell you more about this excellent fertilizer for tomatoes.
- Instantly feeds to grow bigger, more bountiful vegetables...
- Feed every 1-2 weeks
Why Did We Like It?
Few products in the market are as easy, convenient, and fuss-free as Miracle-Gro fertilizers. This tomato plant food is designed to feed your tomato plants, helping them grow bountiful, luscious, and flavorful.
The formula is water-soluble, meaning you need to add water to the product, mix it well, and apply it to the soil. The feeding process begins instantly and continues for about 1 to 2 weeks. After this, you will have to reapply the fertilizer formula.
A fast-working formula that shows quick results, this fertilizer is a favorite amongst gardeners.
One of the best experiences of using this fertilizer was using the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder with it. It made the entire process of applying the fertilizer effortless and fun. You can also choose to apply the fertilizer with any watering can if you wish to.
With this method, you can water the tomato plants and feed them at the same time!
What Could’ve Been Better?
Our only gripe with this fertilizer was its package. We would’ve liked it if the product quantity was a little more than what was provided for the price that we were paying. That being said, this is one of the best fertilizer products for your tomato plants. It is easy to use and produces good results.
- Can be applied with a watering can
- Easy to use
- Fast working formula
- Good NPK blend
- Slightly pricey for the quantity provided
10. Down to Earth Organic Vegetable Garden Fertilizer
Going by its name, we were curious to test this organic fertilizer called Down To Earth for our tomato plants. The fertilizer came in an excellent 4-4-4 formula. The 1 lb box featured an all-natural fertilizer that would feed tomato plants and help them grow large and bountiful.
- Down to Earth Vegetable Garden is a one pound box of all...
- Its all-purpose formulation provides a perfect start for...
Why Did We Like It?
As you can guess by its name, Down to Earth is a company that started up on popular demand from customers. As people grew more environmentally conscious and ethical, they looked for alternatives to using chemical and synthetic fertilizers.
That is when this company began developing its organic fertilizer products. Down to Earth Organic Vegetable Garden Fertilizer is an entirely natural fertilizer solution for your tomato plants. With regular, timely feeding, you can have large, flavorful, and robust tomatoes in your garden in no time.
The 4-4-4 blend is ideal for most soil types and allows the tomatoes to grow without harming them. Moreover, this fertilizer will not burn the roots of your tomato plants, so you can rest assured.
Offering a rich and fulfilling nutrient profile, this fertilizer is apt for use during the growing season of tomatoes.
What Could’ve Been Better?
With most organic fertilizers, you will find a common issue, which is odors. Well, this fertilizer isn’t any different.
Secondly, it is essential to read the manufacturer’s instructions correctly, mix the fertilizer with water, and then add it to the soil. Otherwise, you may not notice the fertilizer’s optimal effects.
- Completely organic-based
- Ideal for the growing season
- All-purpose formula
- Long-lasting
- Smells slightly unpleasant
11. HollandBasics Organic All-Purpose Fertilizer
Are you looking for an ideal, all-purpose fertilizer without all the chemical and synthetic additives? HollandBasics Organic All-Purpose Fertilizer may be the product for you. This 2 kg fertilizer container comes in a 4-4-4 blend – optimal for most soil types and plants. The formula is easy to use and is long-lasting.
- Holland Industry Canada is your #1 Direct Source for Gaia...
- A truly all-purpose fertilizer, suitablefor a wide range of...
Why Did We Like It?
Caring for tomato plants isn’t always easy. These plants require an adequate amount of sunlight, water, and fertilizer. However, have you noticed how many fertilizers in the market end up doing more harm than good?
In that case, you might be looking for an ideal organic fertilizer. This fertilizer uses all-natural products to enhance the growth of your tomato plants. Moreover, the variable nutrient release rate is a unique feature that is excellent for all growth stages.
The nutrient blend comes in a 4:4:4 ratio – equal proportions of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. This makes the fertilizer apt for most soil types, be it nitrogen-rich soils or those that are low in nitrogen content.
Lastly, applying the product was extremely straightforward and convenient. Since it is an all-purpose fertilizer, you don’t require any other additional products to ensure your tomatoes’ healthy growth.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The fertilizer is not water-soluble, which might have made it easier to use. Moreover, the quantity of fertilizer you need to use is not described well. You might need to use your own judgment and allow some trial and error before deciding how much (or little) product you want to use.
- Long-lasting formula
- All-natural ingredients
- Good balance of nutrients
- Fosters soil health
- Not water soluble
12. Pet Safe Lawn Fertilizer
If you have pets in your home, opting for pet-friendly products is a prerequisite when buying anything new. Well, Pet Safe Lawn Fertilizer, as the name suggests, is a pet-friendly product for your tomato garden. The formula is easy to use and safe for both your plants as well as your pets.
- 24-0-6
- Builds a thick green lawn
Why Did We Like It?
There are many plant and animal lovers out there, like us, who want to find a fertilizer mix that’s safe to use for everyone. While many companies offering potent fertilizers work well and produce good results, they might be dangerous to use around your little animal friends.
Well, Pet Safe Lawn Fertilizer is a completely environmentally safe formula that you can use for your tomato plants. The best part about this formula is that it won’t harm your plants or burn the roots. Moreover, it is easy to use and produces significant results.
The unique blend of this fertilizer does not contain any phosphorus, making the product so safe to use. It feeds all the essential macronutrients to your tomatoes, helping them grow healthy, red, and flavorful.
What Could’ve Been Better?
It is important to water the soil and allow the fertilizer to dry completely before allowing your pets on the lawn. Sure, the fertilizer is entirely safe and pet friendly, but in case your pets consume it, they might feel slight discomfort or experience minor symptoms.
- Easy to spread
- Absorbs easily
- No bad odors
- Dust-free and mess-free formula
- Need to wait for the formula to dry before allowing pets in the law
13. The Old Farmer’s Almanac Lawn Food Fertilizer
Are you tired of using harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients found in most fertilizers? The Old Farmer’s Almanac Lawn Food Fertilizer is the ideal product for your requirements. This fertilizer is completely plant-based. It nourishes the soil and helps you produce bountiful tomatoes year after year.
- OMRI Listed granular fertilizer specially formulated for...
- Features both quick and slow release nutrients to promote...
Why Did We Like It?
If you liked our previous fertilizer recommendation but wanted to find one which would allow you to let your pets loose right after applying the product, then good news. This fertilizer is a plant-based, nutrient-rich formula that enhances the proper growth and development of your tomatoes. But that’s not all.
The best part about this fertilizer is the fact that you can let your pets roam free around the lawn immediately. With other fertilizers, you need to wait for the soil to dry before letting your pets out. It can be risky, as pets love to sniff, lick, and bite on anything that smells new or suspicious.
With this product, you can let the pets take a sniff without worrying about the side effects!
Coming to the performance, the fertilizer uses a unique NPK blend of 10-0-2. This means 0 phosphates and harmful substances for your tomato plants.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Since the fertilizer comes in granular form, the soil must be watered well for the formula to disintegrate thoroughly. Moreover, you need to water the soil well for the next three days or so. This can be slightly cumbersome for some people.
- Entirely plant-based
- High-quality formula
- Environmentally safe
- 10% nitrogen enhances the color and growth of plants
- Need to water the soil to avoid the roots getting burnt
Best Tomato Fertilizers Comparison Table
| Product | Nutrient Composition | Application Method | Organic | Slow-Release | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miracle-Gro Shake’ n Feed | 9-4-12 | Granular | No | Yes | All-purpose, continuous feeding |
| Jobe’s Tomato Fertilizer Spikes | 6-18-6 | Spikes | No | Yes | Targeted nutrition, easy application |
| Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer | 2-5-3 | Granular | Yes | Yes | Organic, slow-release, general plant nutrition |
| Fox Farm Grow Big Liquid Concentrate Fertilizer | 6-4-4 | Liquid concentrate | No | No | Promotes vegetative growth |
| Organic Plant Magic Fertilizer | 5-5-5 | Granular | Yes | Yes | Organic, slow-release, all-purpose |
| Greenway Biotech Tomato Fertilizer | 15-15-30 | Water-soluble | No | No | High phosphorus for fruit development |
| Neptune’s Harvest Organic Hydrolized Fish & Seaweed Fertilizer | 2-3-1 | Liquid concentrate | Yes | No | Organic, improves plant health and vigor |
| MasterBlend Complete Combo Kit Fertilizer Bulk | Customizable N-P-K ratios | Water-soluble | No | No | Customizable nutrient ratios |
| Miracle-Gro Tomato Plant Food | 18-18-21 | Water-soluble | No | No | High potassium for fruiting |
| Down to Earth Organic Vegetable Garden Fertilizer | 4-4-4 | Granular | Yes | Yes | Organic, slow-release, general vegetable nutrition |
| HollandBasics Organic All-Purpose Fertilizer | 4-4-4 | Granular | Yes | Yes | Organic, slow-release, all-purpose |
| Pet Safe Lawn Fertilizer | 24-0-6 | Granular | Yes | Yes | Pet-safe, promotes healthy lawns |
| The Old Farmer’s Almanac Lawn Food Fertilizer | 9-0-0 | Granular | No | Yes | Nitrogen-rich, promotes lawn growth |
Buying Guide For The Best Tomatoes Fertilizer
Now that we have told you all about our top recommendations, you might have a better idea about your tomatoes’ best fertilizers. But before you go off purchasing a bag, we have a few more things to tell you.
When purchasing the best fertilizer for your tomatoes, there are a few more things you need to keep in mind. Being mindful of these factors will help you make the correct choice. Keep reading to find out a few things you need to consider.
-
NPK Blend
The Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium blend is crucial for any plant, especially your tomatoes. All these vital substances can help tomato plants grow larger, healthier, and produce better fruits.
That being said, excess of any substance can do more harm than good. While nitrogen can help plants grow thick, too much of it can cause the plants to bear no fruit.
In the same way, phosphorus is also good for the tomato, but too much can cause issues with the soil, drying it out and making it an unhealthy environment for the plants.
It is important to consider the NPK blend and opt for one which meets the requirements of your tomato garden. This will enhance its growth rather than hinder it.
-
Ingredients
The kind of ingredients used to create a fertilizer mix matter. Depending on your specific requirements, you might be looking for organic fertilizer or a synthetic one. Both have their distinct benefits.
As you would do with any other product, read the ingredients carefully before purchasing fertilizer. It will help you judge the contents and decide whether they are harmful to your growing tomato plants or not.
-
Budget
When buying any product, the budget is a crucial factor to consider. We have provided you with a list of fertilizers that come in a variety of prices. Of course, we do not recommend opting for ‘budget buys’ when it comes to fertilizers.
However, there are several combination kits, bulk packs, and affordable options to choose from. You don’t need to invest heavily in any product to have the best, most bountiful produce. In fact, all you need is the right kind of fertilizer to tend to the growing tomato plants’ needs.
-
Frequency Of Application
You might not consider yourself a full-time gardener and still want to grow some beautiful tomatoes in your garden. This is perfectly acceptable. Of course, when you decide to purchase fertilizer, you need to ensure that it syncs with your schedule.
Certain fertilizers require more watering and maintenance than others. While some fertilizers can be reapplied only once in three months, others require more frequent applications.
It is essential to consider this before you purchase the right fertilizer. If you cannot adhere to a feeding schedule, the fertilizer will be largely wasted on the tomato plants. For any fertilizer application, the feeding schedule is imperative.
If you don’t have the time or cannot put too much effort into this process, consider opting for a fertilizer that needs less frequent reapplications. However, if you can manage a strict feeding schedule, opt for other products that you can reapply every two weeks or so.
Tomato Fertilizers FAQ's
Tomato plants should be fertilized at specific stages of their growth. Generally, it is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer, high in phosphorus, before transplanting the seedlings into the garden. After that, additional fertilizer applications can be made during the growing season, typically every 4-6 weeks, to sustain the plants’ nutrient requirements.
The best type of fertilizer for tomatoes depends on several factors, including the soil quality, plant’s growth stage, and personal preferences. Generally, a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of around 10-10-10 or 5-10-10 is suitable for most tomato plants. Organic options such as compost, well-rotted manure, or natural-based fertilizers are also popular choices among gardeners.
While general-purpose fertilizers can provide some nutrients to tomato plants, they may not supply the specific nutrients and micronutrients that tomatoes require for optimal growth and fruit production. It is recommended to use fertilizers formulated specifically for tomatoes, as they are designed to meet the plant’s unique nutritional needs.
Tomato plants benefit from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. In general, applying fertilizer every 4-6 weeks is recommended. However, it is important to monitor the plants’ response and adjust the frequency or dosage as needed, considering factors such as soil fertility, weather conditions, and the overall health of the plants.
Yes, organic fertilizers can be used on tomatoes and are popular among gardeners who prefer natural and sustainable practices. Organic fertilizers, such as compost, worm castings, fish emulsion, or seaweed extracts, provide slow-release nutrients and improve the soil structure, promoting healthy growth and flavorful tomatoes.
Over-fertilizing tomato plants can cause several issues. Signs of over-fertilization include excessive vegetative growth, weak stems, leaf burn or discoloration, reduced fruit set, and an increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and application guidelines to avoid over-fertilization.
Foliar fertilizers, which are sprayed directly on the leaves, can provide a quick nutrient boost to tomato plants. However, they should not be the sole source of fertilization. Foliar fertilizers are best used as supplements in addition to regular soil-applied fertilizers to address specific nutrient deficiencies or to support the plants during periods of stress.
Yes, container-grown tomatoes have specific nutrient requirements due to limited soil volume. They often need more frequent fertilization compared to tomatoes grown in the ground. It is recommended to use a slow-release or controlled-release fertilizer specifically formulated for container plants and to follow the product’s instructions regarding dosage and frequency.
Yes, you can make your own tomato fertilizer using organic ingredients such as compost, compost tea, or diluted fish emulsion
Conclusion
Caring for your tomato plants and ensuring they receive the right nutrients is essential for a bountiful harvest, and finding the right fertilizer is crucial in making this happen. With many options available in the market, it is important to choose a product that caters to the specific requirements of your tomato plants and aligns with your gardening practices.
From the above 13 best fertilizers for tomatoes, here are the top three expert recommendations:
The Miracle-Gro Shake’ n Feed is an ideal option for easy application and provides continuous feeding for up to three months, allowing your tomatoes to grow healthy and plump.
If you’re looking for a mess-free and convenient solution, Jobe’s Tomato Fertilizer Spikes are a good option. These pre-measured spikes provide targeted nutrition with no runoffs, hazards, or odors.
For those who prefer an organic and slow-release fertilizer, Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer is the right choice. This granular, easy-to-spread fertilizer is ideal for providing essential nutrients to your tomato plants without using synthetic chemicals.
In the end, it is essential to understand the specific needs of your tomatoes and choose the right fertilizer accordingly. Whichever product you decide upon, remember to follow the recommended application method and rate, to ensure that your plants receive optimal nourishment and achieve their fullest potential. Happy gardening!
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