The Best Fertilizer to Grow Big Tomatoes

Tomatoes are America's most popular garden vegetable.

According to Missouri State University, tomatoes are the most popular garden vegetable grown in the United States. Properly fertilized tomatoes produce bigger, higher-quality fruit throughout the growing season.

Chemical Composition

Fertilizer low in nitrogen, containing high amounts of phosphorous and moderate to high amounts of potassium, should be used on tomatoes. A local agricultural extension office can make further recommendations based on regional climate and soil type.

Application

Before planting, fertilizer should be applied to the surface of the soil and worked into the first six inches. Once the fruit sets, powdered fertilizer can be sprinkled around the tomato plants and gently worked into the soil. Alternatively, water-soluble fertilizer can be poured around the base of the plants and allowed to soak into the soil.

Timing

Soil should be fertilized up to two weeks before planting tomatoes and again after the fruit sets. Fertilize every seven to 10 days throughout the growing season, until the first frost or until the plants cease to produce new fruit.

References

• University of Missouri Extension: Growing Garden Tomatoes
• Agri-Life Extension: Tomato Questions
• Ohio State University Extension: Growing Tomatoes in the Home Garden