What soil works best for upside-down tomatoes?

Choosing the ideal soil is crucial for success with upside-down tomatoes. Lightweight soil mixtures that drain well will limit bucket weight, thereby reducing stress on hanging systems. When watered appropriately, garden soil becomes perilously heavy. You require specific soil blends that nurture roots without compaction issues.

Combine all dry components, then add water gradually. I mix two gallons of potting soil, two gallons of coconut coir, and one gallon of perlite in a wheelbarrow, mixing until colors are blended and there are no clumps. This avoids uneven wetness that would damage roots.

Moisten the medium until it will hold a shape when squeezed. If it is too wet, you will lose nutrients to leaching, and if it is too dry the plants will stress. Here is my perfect test: it makes a ball shape that will fall apart when poked. This moisture level hydrates the roots right after planting them.

Every month during the growing season, I will refresh soil nutrients in the container. I add compost tea to watering cans in the fourth week, allowing me to add natural fertilizers to boost fruit production without causing chemical buildup. No fresh manure, as it will burn the delicate roots upside down.

Check drainage before planting as a simple test. Fill a bucket with your mixture and water. Time until water stops dripping from the hole. Ideally, your drainage should take 2-3 minutes before it stops dripping to ensure your plant does not rot.

Read the full article: How to Grow Tomatoes Upside Down Successfully