Nitrogen & Tomatoes - Knowledgebase Question

Harvey, LA
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Question by noparrothd
April 3, 1999
In all books that I have read concerning tomatoes, it is stated that they should be fertilized with a fertilizer low in nitrogen (about 6%) to promote root growth in the early stages. Miracle-Gro for tomatoes contains 18%. I have always used this fertilizer with great results. Please explain.


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Answer from NGA
April 3, 1999
If you over fertilize tomatoes with nitrogen when they are young, you will get lots of vines at the expense of fruiting. However, today's new hybrids can produce a lot of tomatoes if you feed them well. I have seen over 60 pounds produced on one bush! And, that was using Miracle-Gro's formula generously. The key is to wait until fruit starts to set before really pouring on the nutrition.

When setting out transplants, give them a good drink of Miracle-Gro solution. Then fertilize sparingly (perhaps weekly at a low to medium rate) until they start to set fruit. Then begin to push them along with fertilizer and you will be pleased with the productive results.

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