What To Add To Soil When Planting Tomatoes For A Bountiful Harvest

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in home gardens. Producing an abundance of sweet, juicy tomatoes starts with preparing the soil properly before planting. Tomatoes thrive when the soil has the right nutrients and texture to support vigorous plants. Here are some tips on amending soil and what to mix in when planting tomatoes.

The Importance of Loose, Nutrient-Rich Soil

Tomatoes need loose, well-drained soil that is high in organic matter This gives their roots room to expand and access to moisture and nutrients Heavy clay or compacted soils can restrict root growth. On the other hand, overly sandy soils may drain too quickly.

Adding compost, manure or other organic amendments before planting accomplishes two important goals:

• Improves soil structure – Organic matter helps bind small soil particles into larger aggregates, creating a looser texture This aerates the soil and allows roots to spread more freely

• Increases nutrient levels – Decomposing amendments release nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other nutrients in plant-available forms This fuels growth of vines, leaves and fruits

When preparing soil for tomatoes, focus on mixing in nutrients as well as loosening the soil. Let’s look at some specific organic additives and how they benefit tomatoes.

Compost for Overall Nutrition

Compost is the gardener’s gold for enriching soil. Made from decayed leaves, grass clippings, food scraps and other organic materials, finished compost contains a balanced array of macro- and micronutrients.

Work in 2-4 inches of compost when preparing tomato beds. Compost boosts levels of:

• Nitrogen for lush vegetation
• Phosphorus for root and flower development
• Potassium for disease resistance
• Calcium, magnesium and micronutrients

For container tomatoes, mix compost into potting soil at a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio.

Manure for Nitrogen

Manure adds nitrogen, the nutrient tomatoes need most for heavy fruit production. Cow, horse, rabbit, chicken, turkey and other livestock manures can be used.

Age manure for at least 6 months before application, or compost it first to avoid burning plants. Mix manure into soil 2-4 weeks before planting at:

• 1-2 inches for beds
• 10-20% of potting mix for containers

Sheep and goat manures tend to be very high in nutrients so cut the amounts in half.

Peat Moss for Acidity

Peat moss has an acidic pH, making it useful for lowering soil pH for tomatoes. It also improves moisture retention in sandy soils. Incorporate 1-2 inches of peat moss into beds before planting. For containers, mix in 10-30% peat.

sphagnum peat provides the best results. Avoid peat from bogs which may contain toxic metals.

Mycorrhizal Fungi for Root Health

Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with tomato roots. The fungi supply nutrients and receive sugars in return. Adding mycorrhizal inoculants when planting tomatoes boosts their growth and health.

Dust roots with the dried powder, or mix it into the planting hole. Mycorrhizal spores can also be watered into the soil. Use according to package rates.

Other Useful Amendments

Some other worthwhile soil additions when planting tomatoes include:

• Worm castings – Boosts phosphorus and micronutrients
• Kelp meal – Provides potassium and micronutrients
• Blood or bone meal – Adds nitrogen and phosphorus
• Rock phosphate – Supplies phosphorus over a longer period
• Greensand – Adds potassium and micronutrients
• Lime – Only if a soil test shows the pH is too low

Avoid excessive fertilization at planting time. This can cause leafy growth instead of fruit production. Identify any deficiencies with a soil test first.

How to Prepare Tomato Soil

Here is a simple process for amending soil when preparing tomato beds:

1. Loosen existing soil with a spade or tiller to a depth of 8-12 inches. Remove any weeds or debris.

2. Mix 2-4 inches of compost into the top 6 inches of soil. Thoroughly combine.

3. Add a 2-4 inch layer of aged manure, peat moss, castings etc. based on your soil’s needs.

4. Till or spade everything together to fully incorporate amendments.

5. Shape beds and rake the surface smooth. Allow to sit for 1-2 weeks before planting.

6. Dig planting holes, fill with a bit more compost and any mycorrhizae.

7. Transplant tomatoes at the recommended spacing and water in well.

With proper soil preparation, your tomato plants will thrive and reward you with a bountiful harvest. Paying attention to soil nutrients and texture before planting makes all the difference. Your taste buds will appreciate the flavorful tomatoes!