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10 Best Fertilizers For Tomatoes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Burpee Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular Plant Food, 4 lb

Burpee Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular Plant Food is a solid choice for those looking to boost the growth of their tomatoes and other vegetables in an organic way. With its granular form, it is easy to apply and releases nutrients consistently over a period of up to 3 months, which means less frequent applications are needed. This can be particularly advantageous for busy gardeners. Its OMRI listing ensures that it meets organic standards, making it suitable for environmentally conscious users.

One possible drawback is the lack of specific information about the N-P-K ratio in the provided details, which is crucial for those wanting to tailor their fertilization to precise plant needs. Additionally, while it is designed to produce superior results throughout the season, the effectiveness can vary depending on the initial soil conditions and compatibility. Gardeners with highly specific soil pH requirements might need to conduct a soil test and adjust accordingly.

In summary, Burpee Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular Plant Food is a long-lasting, easy-to-use fertilizer that is well suited for organic gardening, but users should ensure it meets their specific soil and nutrient needs.

#2

Miracle-Gro Shake 'N Feed Tomato, Fruit and Vegetable Plant Food, For In-Ground and Container Plants, Feeds up to 3 Months, 4.5 lbs.

Rating
9.4
N-P-K Ratio
Organic vs. Synthetic
Micronutrients

Most important from
9711 reviews

N-P-K Ratio
Lower NPK ratio compared to some granular fertilizers, which might not suit all plants or growth stages.
Organic vs. Synthetic
Natural ingredients like kelp, earthworm castings, and feather meal are a plus for some gardeners.
Micronutrients
Contains micronutrients alongside macronutrients, contributing to overall plant health.

Miracle-Gro Shake 'N Feed Tomato, Fruit, and Vegetable Plant Food is designed for both in-ground and container plants, making it versatile for various gardening setups. This fertilizer stands out by providing nourishment for up to three months, which means less frequent applications are needed. The inclusion of calcium is a notable strength, as it helps in forming stronger cell walls, leading to better quality and longer-lasting fruits and vegetables.

Additionally, the natural ingredients included can improve soil health both above and below the surface, which is beneficial for plant growth and longevity. The ease of application—simply shaking the product onto the soil and working it in—makes it user-friendly even for novice gardeners. Regular reapplication every three months and consistent watering can ensure a flourishing garden throughout the growing season.

It's worth noting that the product is synthetic rather than fully organic, which might not align with the preferences of gardeners looking for strictly organic solutions. Despite this, Miracle-Gro Shake 'N Feed Tomato, Fruit, and Vegetable Plant Food has received high ratings from customers and holds a strong position in the garden fertilizers category, indicating satisfaction with its performance.

Rating
9.4
N-P-K Ratio
Organic vs. Synthetic
Micronutrients

Most important from
9711 reviews

N-P-K Ratio
Lower NPK ratio compared to some granular fertilizers, which might not suit all plants or growth stages.
Organic vs. Synthetic
Natural ingredients like kelp, earthworm castings, and feather meal are a plus for some gardeners.
Micronutrients
Contains micronutrients alongside macronutrients, contributing to overall plant health.

Buying Guide for the Best Fertilizers For Tomatoes

Choosing the right fertilizer for your tomatoes is crucial for ensuring healthy growth and a bountiful harvest. Tomatoes are heavy feeders, meaning they require a lot of nutrients to thrive. When selecting a fertilizer, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they impact your plants. This guide will help you navigate through the essential specs and choose the best fertilizer for your tomato plants based on your specific needs and growing conditions.
N-P-K RatioThe N-P-K ratio stands for Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K), which are the primary nutrients in fertilizers. Nitrogen promotes leafy growth, phosphorus supports root development and flowering, and potassium enhances overall plant health and disease resistance. For tomatoes, a balanced ratio like 10-10-10 or a slightly higher phosphorus content like 5-10-5 is often recommended. If your plants are lush but not producing fruit, you might need a fertilizer with less nitrogen and more phosphorus. Choose a ratio based on the specific growth stage and needs of your tomato plants.
Type of FertilizerFertilizers come in various forms, including granular, liquid, and slow-release. Granular fertilizers are easy to apply and provide nutrients over time, making them ideal for long-term feeding. Liquid fertilizers are fast-acting and can be applied directly to the soil or as a foliar spray, perfect for a quick nutrient boost. Slow-release fertilizers gradually release nutrients over several months, reducing the need for frequent applications. Consider your gardening routine and how often you want to fertilize when choosing the type of fertilizer.
Organic vs. SyntheticOrganic fertilizers are made from natural materials like compost, manure, and bone meal, and they improve soil health over time. They release nutrients slowly and are less likely to burn plants. Synthetic fertilizers are chemically formulated and provide nutrients quickly, which can be beneficial for immediate plant needs. However, they can build up in the soil and potentially harm beneficial microorganisms. If you prefer a more sustainable approach and long-term soil health, go for organic fertilizers. If you need quick results and precise nutrient control, synthetic fertilizers might be the better choice.
MicronutrientsIn addition to the primary nutrients (N-P-K), tomatoes also need micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, and iron for optimal growth. Calcium is crucial for preventing blossom end rot, a common tomato problem. Magnesium helps with photosynthesis, and iron is essential for chlorophyll production. Look for fertilizers that include these micronutrients, especially if you notice specific deficiencies in your plants. Your choice should be guided by the overall health of your tomato plants and any signs of nutrient deficiencies.
Soil pH CompatibilityTomatoes prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Some fertilizers can alter the soil pH, so it's important to choose one that is compatible with your soil's current pH level. If your soil is too acidic or too alkaline, it can affect nutrient availability and plant health. Test your soil pH before selecting a fertilizer and choose one that will help maintain or adjust the pH to the optimal range for tomatoes.

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