16 tomato hacks for a harvest you’ll want to brag about

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

A drip irrigation system delivers water directly to the roots of your tomato plants, conserving water and ensuring consistent moisture levels. You can create a simple DIY system using a soaker hose or plastic bottles with small holes. This method reduces water waste and minimizes the risk of fungal diseases by keeping foliage dry.

For a simple DIY system, use a 2-liter (half-gallon) plastic bottle with 4–6 small holes (about 1/16 inch or 1.5 mm wide) drilled in the bottom. Bury the bottle beside the plant and fill with water as needed.

Seaweed extract is a natural fertilizer that provides a wide range of nutrients, including potassium, nitrogen, and trace minerals. By applying seaweed extract to your tomato plants, you can enhance growth and improve resistance to stress. This organic supplement also stimulates beneficial microbial activity in the soil.

Mix 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) of liquid seaweed extract per gallon (3.8 liters) of water and apply every 2–4 weeks as a foliar spray or soil drench, according to product instructions.

Raised beds offer improved drainage and soil structure, making them ideal for growing tomatoes. By elevating the soil, you can prevent waterlogging and root rot, which are common issues in poorly drained areas. Raised beds also warm up faster in the spring, allowing for earlier planting and extended growing seasons.

Build raised beds that are at least 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) deep and 3–4 feet (90–120 cm) wide. Space tomato plants 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) apart within the bed to ensure good airflow and drainage.

Timing is crucial when it comes to harvesting tomatoes. For the best flavor, pick tomatoes when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. Overripe tomatoes can become mushy, while underripe ones may lack sweetness. Regularly check your plants (every 2-3 days) and harvest tomatoes as they ripen to enjoy the freshest and most flavorful fruit.

With these 16 tomato hacks, you can transform your garden into a thriving oasis of delicious tomatoes. By implementing these strategies, you'll not only increase your yield but also improve the quality and flavor of your harvest. Whether you're sharing your bounty with friends and family or savoring it yourself, you'll have plenty of reasons to brag about your tomato-growing success. Happy gardening!