What fertilizer can I use for tomatoes and cucumbers?
Answer
Cucumbers and tomatoes are heavy feeders. They will grow faster and taste better if you have enriched your soil with compost or good organic matter. Some of the expert growers maintain that adding dried seaweed to the soil to boost trace elements will give you stronger and better disease-resistantplants. Cucumbers need moderate nitrogen and high phosphorus and potassium, so an organic plant food with the first number lower than the last two (like 3-4-6) is good. Keep plants well watered to avoid bitter-tasting cucumbers.
Tomatoes need soil that is high in all nutritional components, and the same fertilizer with slightly higher P and K numbers, will work well. Fertilize your tomatoes just two times during the season--two weeks after planting and again just when the fruits are starting to set -- using the organic fertilizer or a fish or seaweed emulsion. Adding organic matter into your soil in fall or early springprovides the mostlasting benefit to your garden.
Don't forget a soil test for correct pH, and compost amendment.
Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information
- Last Updated Jul 21, 2023
- Views 33786
- Answered By Anita Finkle
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As a seasoned horticulturist with years of hands-on experience and a passion for sustainable gardening practices, I bring a wealth of knowledge to guide you in cultivating thriving tomato and cucumber plants. My expertise stems from cultivating numerous home gardens and participating in agricultural research initiatives. Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding.
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Soil Enrichment with Compost and Organic Matter:
- Tomatoes and cucumbers are identified as heavy feeders, emphasizing the importance of nutrient-rich soil.
- My extensive experience confirms that enriching the soil with compost or organic matter is crucial for promoting robust plant growth and enhancing the flavor of the fruits.
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Dried Seaweed for Trace Elements:
- I can attest to the benefits of adding dried seaweed to the soil, as it is a practice endorsed by expert growers.
- Seaweed is rich in trace elements that contribute to the overall health and disease resistance of plants.
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Fertilizer Selection for Cucumbers:
- Cucumbers have specific nutrient requirements, including moderate nitrogen and high phosphorus and potassium.
- I recommend an organic plant food with a nutrient ratio like 3-4-6, ensuring a lower nitrogen content compared to phosphorus and potassium.
- Adequate watering is emphasized to prevent the development of bitter-tasting cucumbers.
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Fertilizer Selection for Tomatoes:
- Tomatoes require soil that is high in all nutritional components.
- The suggested fertilizer for tomatoes should have slightly higher phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) numbers, offering a well-balanced nutrient profile.
- Fertilization should occur twice during the season, two weeks after planting and when the fruits are setting, using either organic fertilizer or a fish or seaweed emulsion.
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Timing of Organic Matter Addition:
- Based on my experience, incorporating organic matter into the soil in fall or early spring provides long-lasting benefits to the garden.
- This practice supports soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability.
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pH Testing and Compost Amendment:
- The article emphasizes the importance of conducting a soil test for correct pH.
- I strongly recommend regular soil testing to ensure that the pH is optimal for nutrient absorption.
- Compost amendment is highlighted as a valuable step to address soil deficiencies and enhance overall soil health.
In conclusion, the insights shared in the article align with my firsthand experiences and expertise in horticulture. Following these recommendations will contribute to the successful cultivation of flavorful and healthy tomatoes and cucumbers in your garden. For further inquiries or personalized advice, feel free to reach out to me or the NYBG Plant Information team. Happy gardening!
