Growing tomatoes can be a rewarding experience, but achieving a bountiful harvest requires more than just planting and watering. With a few clever hacks, you can enhance the growth, flavor, and yield of your tomato plants.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these 16 tomato hacks will help you cultivate a harvest that you’ll want to brag about. From natural pest control to soil enrichment, these tips are designed to optimize your tomato-growing efforts.
1. Planting Basil Nearby to Keep Pests Away
Basil is not only a delicious herb but also a natural pest deterrent. For effective pest control, plant basil 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) away from each tomato plant. The aromatic oils in basil act as a natural insect repellent, creating a protective barrier around your tomatoes. Additionally, basil can enhance the flavor of tomatoes, making this companion planting a win-win situation.
2. Sprinkling Baking Soda for Sweeter Tomatoes
Baking soda can be used to alter the pH level of the soil, reducing its acidity. Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of baking soda per plant, evenly around the base, being careful not to touch the plant itself. Do this early in the growing season and use sparingly—repeat no more than once every 4 weeks.
3. Watering at the Base and Not on the Leaves
Watering your tomato plants at the base rather than on the leaves can prevent fungal diseases such as blight. Use a watering can or drip irrigation to deliver 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) of water per week directly to the soil, keeping the foliage dry and healthy.
4. Using Coffee Grounds to Enrich Soil
Coffee grounds are an excellent source of nitrogen. Add 1/2 cup (about 50 grams) of used coffee grounds per plant every 2–4 weeks, mixing them lightly into the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil to prevent mold growth and help attract earthworms.
5. Pruning Tomato Plants for Better Growth
Pruning is crucial for healthy tomatoes. Remove the lower 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) of leaves and all suckers (shoots between stem and branches) weekly. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to avoid spreading disease.
6. Mulching to Retain Soil Moisture
Apply a layer of organic mulch—2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) thick—such as straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves, around your tomato plants, keeping the mulch about 2 inches (5 cm) away from the stems to prevent rot.
7. Companion Planting for Natural Pest Control
For effective companion planting, space marigolds and nasturtiums 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart around your tomato plants. This ensures enough coverage to repel pests and attract beneficial insects.
8. Using Epsom Salt to Boost Magnesium Levels
Dissolve 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of Epsom salt in 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water. Apply this solution as a soil drench around the base of each plant once per month, or as a foliar spray, misting the leaves until wet.
9. Staking and Supporting Tomato Plants
Use stakes that are 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 meters) tall for indeterminate varieties, placing them 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) from the stem at planting time. Alternatively, use tomato cages that are at least 18 inches (45 cm) in diameter.
10. Rotating Crops to Prevent Disease
Practice crop rotation by not planting tomatoes (or related crops) in the same spot for at least 2–3 years. Rotate with unrelated crops such as beans or corn to reduce soil-borne diseases and pests.
11. Using Eggshells to Add Calcium
Crush 4–5 eggshells per plant and mix them into the soil at planting time or sprinkle them around the base of established plants. This provides a slow-release source of calcium to prevent blossom end rot.
12. Fermenting Seeds for Better Germination
Place your tomato seeds in a jar with enough water to cover them (about 1/2 cup or 120 ml). Let them ferment for 2–4 days at room temperature, stirring daily. Rinse thoroughly before drying and planting.
13. Creating a DIY Drip Irrigation System
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