What's the best natural fertilizer for tomatoes?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Natural fertilizers provide tomatoes with the essential nutrients they need, thereby eliminating the need for chemical fertilizers. Homemade formulas help improve soil health and sustainably enhance fruit quality. I always make my own mixes using the most common kitchen scraps and garden scraps. My formulas provide a steady diet of nutrients to the plants, sidestepping the problems associated with toxic chemical fertilizer salt buildup. Organic solutions can foster sustainable soil fertility in the long term.
Compost is the building block of natural fertilizers. Use well-rotted, high-organic-content, plant-based compost. This improves soil structure and moisture retention. I apply 2 inches monthly around plants. The compost nourishes the beneficial microbes that naturally boost root health.
In order to prevent blossom end rot, add crushed eggshells for calcium! Clean and bake the eggshells for 20 minutes at 250°F (120°C). Then grind them into a powder using the blender. I measure 1/2 cup per plant and add it to the topsoil. Calcium is a slowly released nutrient and is important for strengthening plant cell walls during fruit development.
Coffee grounds contain nitrogen, which promotes vibrant foliage. Use spent coffee grounds from brewed coffee after they have cooled. Either mix them directly into the soil or apply them to your compost pile. I apply one cup of coffee grounds around each plant every three weeks. This amendment is acidic and also acts as a deterrent for slugs when sprinkled around the base of the stem.
Make banana peel tea for potassium to improve fruiting. Steep 3 banana peels in 1 quart of water for 48 hours. Strain and dilute 1:1 before use. I water my plants with this tea once a month. Potassium increases the Sugar content in developing tomatoes and adds disease resistance.
Preparation Methods
- Compost: Age 6 months before use
- Eggshells: Bake and grind into powder
- Banana peels: Ferment for tea
Timing Schedule
- Apply at planting time
- Reapply every 3-4 weeks
- Stop fertilizing 4 weeks before frost
Advanced Blending
- Combine 2 parts compost + 1 part coffee grounds
- Add 1/4 cup eggshell powder per gallon mix
- Use banana tea as liquid supplement
Fertilizer application is frequently recommended, and applying it every 3-4 weeks during the active stage is beneficial to the plant. Always apply water to the plants before applying any fertilizer to avoid root burn. I feed tomatoes in the early morning after watering. Refrain from fertilizing them approximately 4 weeks before the first frost. Following this schedule, I have continuous tomato, cucumber, and squash produce without much opportunity for overfeeding the plants.
Read the full article: How to Grow Tomatoes: Essential Steps for Success
