If you want to grow thriving, flavorful, and highly productive tomato plants, it all starts with what you put in the hole. That’s right—the secret to juicy tomatoes and vigorous vines lies in how you prep your planting site.
Before you drop your tomato seedlings into the soil, consider supercharging the hole with these 8 powerhouse ingredients. Each one offers unique benefits to boost growth, prevent disease, and increase your harvest.
1️⃣ Bone Meal – For Strong Roots & Fruit Development
Why use it? Bone meal is packed with phosphorus and calcium, both crucial for root development, blooming, and fruit production. It also helps prevent blossom end rot, a common tomato issue.
How to use: Sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons into the hole before planting.
2️⃣ Organic Compost – The All-Around Soil Enhancer
Compost improves soil texture, boosts moisture retention, and provides a balanced mix of essential nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).
How to use: Add a generous handful (or two) into the planting hole and mix it with the native soil.
3️⃣ Epsom Salt – A Magnesium Boost
Tomatoes thrive on magnesium, which helps with chlorophyll production and overall plant strength. Epsom salt delivers this essential nutrient and can prevent yellowing leaves.
How to use: Add 1 tablespoon into the planting hole or dissolve 1 tablespoon in a gallon of water and apply monthly.
4️⃣ Fish Emulsion – Natural Nitrogen Power
This organic fertilizer is rich in nitrogen, encouraging lush green growth and healthy foliage.
How to use: Mix into the soil or water it in after planting for a fast-acting nutrient boost.
5️⃣ Coffee Grounds – A Gentle Nitrogen Source
Used coffee grounds are an excellent way to improve soil drainage while adding slow-release nitrogen and micronutrients.
How to use: Mix a small handful into the planting hole; avoid overusing, as they are slightly acidic.
6️⃣ Eggshells – Calcium for Blossom End Rot Defense
Crushed eggshells offer a steady source of calcium, preventing blossom end rot and improving soil structure.
How to use: Dry and crush 2–3 eggshells, then add them to each planting hole.
7️⃣ Seaweed Extract – Micronutrient Magic
Seaweed is loaded with trace minerals and natural growth hormones that stimulate root development and increase nutrient uptake.
How to use: Add a small amount of liquid extract to the hole or water it in post-planting.
8️⃣ Molasses – Fuel for Soil Life
Molasses feeds the beneficial microbes in your soil, encouraging a healthy, living ecosystem that breaks down nutrients for your tomatoes to absorb.
How to use: Mix 1–2 tablespoons into a gallon of water and apply at the base after planting.
🌿 Bonus Tip: Mix & Match with Care
You don’t need to use all eight in one hole. Choose 3–5 based on your soil’s condition and your plant’s needs. The goal is to build a nutrient-rich, biologically active environment that supports your tomato plants from day one.
🍅 Let Your Tomatoes Thrive!
With just a little extra prep, you’ll be setting the stage for stronger roots, healthier plants, and a bountiful harvest of homegrown tomatoes. So the next time you head to the garden, don’t just dig a hole—build a foundation for greatness!
