7 brilliant tomato growing hacks

Every gardener, whether novice or experienced, knows that growing tomatoes can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. Bursting with flavor and rich in nutrients, tomatoes are a staple in many home gardens around the world. However, as any avid gardener can attest, growing tomatoes comes with its own set of hurdles, from pest control to soil preparation. In order to achieve a bountiful harvest, gardeners need to employ a variety of techniques to ensure that their tomato plants flourish and yield a delicious crop.

In this article, we'll explore seven of the best tomato growing hacks that are sure to take your tomato gardening skills to the next level. Whether you're planting your first tomato seedlings or looking to enhance your long-standing tomato garden, these tried-and-true hacks will help you navigate the common challenges associated with tomato cultivation and reap the rewards of a successful growing season.

Proper pruning is key to healthy tomato plants. By removing excess leaves and stems, you can improve air circulation and sunlight exposure for your plants, thereby reducing the risk of diseases such as blight and powdery mildew. Prune your tomato plants by removing the lower leaves that touch the ground, as well as any yellowing or diseased leaves. Be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears and make clean cuts to avoid injuring the plant.

Calcium is an essential nutrient for tomato plants, helping to strengthen cell walls and prevent a common condition known as blossom-end rot. One easy and cost-effective way to add calcium to your soil is by using crushed eggshells. Simply collect and rinse eggshells, then crush them into small pieces and scatter them around the base of your tomato plants. The calcium in the eggshells will gradually leach into the soil, providing your plants with the nutrients they need to thrive.

Marigolds are not only beautiful, but they also have natural pest-repelling properties. Planting marigolds near your tomato plants can help deter common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and tomato hornworms. The strong scent of marigolds is believed to mask the aroma of tomato plants, making it harder for pests to locate them. Additionally, marigolds attract beneficial insects like ladybugs that prey on harmful pests.

Epsom salt, which is rich in magnesium sulfate, can benefit tomato plants in several ways. Magnesium is essential for photosynthesis and helps plants produce sweeter, tastier fruits. To use Epsom salt in your tomato garden, dissolve one tablespoon of Epsom salt in a gallon of water and use it to water your plants every two weeks. The added magnesium will promote stronger root systems, greener leaves, and tastier tomatoes.

Providing support for your tomato plants is crucial for preventing the stems from breaking under the weight of heavy fruit. A DIY tomato trellis is an affordable and effective way to encourage vertical growth and keep your tomatoes off the ground, reducing the risk of rot and disease. Use sturdy stakes, bamboo poles, or PVC pipes to create a simple trellis structure, and tie the tomato stems to the support as they grow.

Used coffee grounds are a rich source of nitrogen, which is essential for plant growth. Sprinkling used coffee grounds around the base of your tomato plants can provide a slow-release source of nitrogen, improving the health and productivity of your plants. Additionally, coffee grounds help improve soil structure and water retention, making them a valuable addition to your garden. Before applying coffee grounds to your soil, be sure to let them dry and cool. Then, simply spread a thin layer of the grounds around the base of each tomato plant, and gently work them into the top layer of soil. The added nitrogen will boost foliage growth and contribute to a more robust and bountiful harvest.

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefit. Certain plants, when grown in close proximity to tomatoes, can enhance their growth, flavor, and pest resistance. For example, planting basil alongside tomatoes is said to improve the flavor of the tomatoes while also repelling pests like flies and mosquitoes. Other good companion plants for tomatoes include garlic, which deters spider mites, and borage, which attracts beneficial insects like bees and repels tomato hornworms. By carefully selecting and positioning companion plants in your tomato garden, you can create a thriving ecosystem that supports the overall health and productivity of your plants.