Best Fertilizer for Tomatoes Growing in Pots and Containers
I have taken to growing more and more tomato plants in containers around my house. So much so, that over half of all our tomato plants this summer were in pots. There are two main reasons for this.
One, our property keeps getting more shaded as these dastardly loblolly pines get taller. Two, I swear I have some type of nematode or soil fungus that just ruins all our tomatoes each year.
In my own way, I have become a container-grown tomato expert! Before we get into the main point here of what I recommend as the best fertilizer, let me state the obvious if you don’t know already. Growing tomato plants in pots is super easy, and I really don’t think they need nearly the same care as plants in the ground.
Keep up with the watering, and you will have success if you use a fresh soil mix each year. If you buy bagged potting soil, most brands have some type of butriens already init. Additional fertilizers to the plants throughout the growing season only add to the success you can have.
My Top Picks:
Big Ass Tomato Fertilizer
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Tomato Plant Food
Burpee Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular Plant Food
JR Peters 51324 Jack’s Classic 12-15-30 Tomato Feed
Great Big Tomatoes Soil and Fertilizer Booster
Espoma Organic Tomato-Tone
Dr. Earth Organic Tomato, Vegetable & Herb Fertilizer
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food
Perfect Plants Tomato Plant Fertilizer
Big Ass Tomato Fertilizer
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Primary Nutrient Ratio: 9-1.5-7
Big Ass Tomato Fertilizer is not just another fertilizer on the market; it’s a statement. Designed specifically for tomato plants, this high-potency, fast-acting fertilizer aims to give you the biggest and juiciest tomatoes possible. If you’re looking to win a local tomato-growing competition, this might be your secret weapon.
Pros:
- High nutrient concentration for rapid growth
- Easy to apply in both granular and liquid forms
- Specifically formulated for tomatoes
Why It Made the List:
This fertilizer is perfect for those who are looking for a high-impact, specialized solution for their potted tomatoes. Its nutrient-rich formula ensures that your tomatoes get all they need to thrive.
Interesting Fact:
The name “Big Ass” isn’t just for show; the company prides itself on producing fertilizers that help grow some of the largest tomatoes in various competitions.
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Tomato Plant Food
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Primary Nutrient Ratio:
Miracle-Gro’s Water Soluble Tomato Plant Food is a legacy product from a company that has been trusted by gardeners for decades. This water-soluble fertilizer is not just easy to apply but also ensures that your potted tomatoes receive a balanced set of nutrients. It’s a tried-and-true formula that has stood the test of time.
Pros:
- Water-soluble for easy application
- Balanced nutrient profile
- Trusted brand with a long-standing reputation
Why It Made the List:
Its ease of use and balanced nutrient profile make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
Interesting Fact:
Miracle-Gro has been around since 1951 and was initially created as a “magic” plant food formula for lush, beautiful gardens.
Burpee Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular Plant Food
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Primary Nutrient Ratio: 3-6-4
Burpee’s Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular Plant Food is a product from a company with a rich history in the gardening world. This all-natural, organic fertilizer offers a balanced nutrient profile and is perfect for those who are committed to eco-friendly gardening practices.
Pros:
- Organic and eco-friendly
- Balanced nutrient ratio
- Slow-release formula for sustained growth
Why It Made the List:
This is the go-to choice for those who prioritize organic and sustainable gardening practices.
Interesting Fact:
Burpee was founded in 1876 and is credited with introducing the first white sweet corn, Golden Bantam, to the American public.
JR Peters 51324 Jack’s Classic 12-15-30 Tomato Feed
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Primary Nutrient Ratio: 12-15-30
JR Peters’ Jack’s Classic 12-15-30 Tomato Feed is a professional-grade fertilizer that brings greenhouse-quality care to your potted tomatoes. With its high phosphorus content, this fertilizer is designed to maximize fruit production, making it ideal for those who are serious about their tomato yield.
Pros:
- High phosphorus content for better fruiting
- Professional-grade formula
- Water-soluble for easy application
Why It Made the List:
This fertilizer is perfect for those who are serious about maximizing fruit production in their potted tomato plants.
Interesting Fact:
JR Peters Inc. has its roots in professional greenhouse and nursery fertilizers, making their products a choice for serious gardeners.
Great Big Tomatoes Soil and Fertilizer Booster
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Primary Nutrient Ratio: .02-0-.02
Great Big Tomatoes Soil and Fertilizer Booster is more than just a fertilizer; it’s a soil enhancer. This unique blend not only provides essential nutrients but also improves soil structure and promotes microbial activity. It’s a holistic approach to potted tomato gardening that pays attention to the soil as much as the plant.
Pros:
- Enhances soil structure
- Rich in essential nutrients
- Promotes microbial activity
Why It Made the List:
This product is ideal for those who want to improve both the soil and the plant, offering a holistic approach to potted tomato gardening.
Interesting Fact:
The company focuses on soil health as much as plant health, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between the two.
Espoma Organic Tomato-Tone
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Primary Nutrient Ratio: 3-4-6
Espoma’s Organic Tomato-Tone is an organic fertilizer from a company that has been in the organic game for nearly a century. This slow-release formula is fortified with essential nutrients and beneficial microbes, making it a long-lasting solution that also promotes soil health.
Pros:
- Organic formula
- Contains beneficial microbes
- Slow-release for sustained growth
Why It Made the List:
This is a great choice for gardeners who want an organic, long-lasting solution that also promotes soil health.
Interesting Fact:
Espoma has been making organic fertilizers since 1929, long before “organic” became a buzzword.
Dr. Earth Organic Tomato, Vegetable & Herb Fertilizer
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Primary Nutrient Ratio: 4-6-3
Dr. Earth’s Organic Tomato, Vegetable & Herb Fertilizer is not just for your plants; it’s for you and your pets too. This versatile, organic fertilizer is rich in natural ingredients like fish bone meal and alfalfa meal, and it’s safe enough to use around your entire family.
Pros:
- Organic and natural ingredients
- Versatile—good for tomatoes and other plants
- Rich in micronutrients
Why It Made the List:
This is a versatile option for those who are growing more than just tomatoes in pots and containers.
Interesting Fact:
Dr. Earth emphasizes a “People & Pet Safe” approach, ensuring that their products are non-toxic.
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food
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Primary Nutrient Ratio: 14-14-14
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food is a product of years of research and development in the field of controlled-release fertilizers. The granular, coated fertilizer offers a slow-release formula, ensuring that your potted tomatoes get a steady and controlled supply of nutrients.
I probably should have put this higher on the list; it’s actually my go-to fertilizer, not just for tomatoes but everything! I worked in a nursery when I was younger, and this is all we used for everything. I know it’s basic, but it works and never burns the plants.
Pros:
- Slow-release formula
- Easy to apply granular form
- Balanced nutrient profile
Why It Made the List:
Its slow-release formula makes it a low-maintenance option for busy gardeners.
Interesting Fact:
Osmocote was one of the pioneers in developing controlled-release fertilizers back in the 1960s.
Perfect Plants Tomato Plant Fertilizer
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Primary Nutrient Ratio: 9-3-6
Perfect Plants Tomato Plant Fertilizer is a specialized formula that comes in a resealable bag for your convenience. The company understands the needs of small-scale, potted tomato gardeners and has designed this product to be as user-friendly as possible, without compromising on nutrient quality.
Pros:
- Specialized for tomato plants
- Convenient resealable bag
- Balanced nutrient profile
Why It Made the List:
The convenience of a resealable bag and a specialized formula makes this a practical choice for small-scale, potted tomato gardeners.
Interesting Fact:
Perfect Plants is a family-owned business that emphasizes quality and convenience in all its gardening products.
These Are Some of the Best Toot Plants You Can Buy on Amazon
I used to go to both my neighborhood Lowes, Home Depot, a local nursery, and even Walmart to buy tomato plants. Basically, all of them have the same selection from Bonnie Plants. You can order tomato plants online and have them in a few days. I actually think they get less stressed and better care this way than the lack of water and abuse a tomato plant suffers at a home center.
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My Top 7 Secret Tips For Growing Tomatoes in Containers
Growing tomatoes in containers can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are my top 7 secret tips to ensure that your potted tomato plants are healthy, productive, and absolutely thriving.
1. Choose the Right Container
Secret Tip: Opt for containers that are at least 18 inches in diameter and have drainage holes.
The size and type of container you choose can make a significant difference in how well your tomato plants grow. A container that is too small will restrict root growth, while poor drainage can lead to root rot. Make sure you choose a container that gives your tomato plants enough room to grow and ensures proper drainage.
2. Pick the Perfect Soil
Secret Tip: Use a high-quality potting mix enriched with organic matter and avoid using garden soil.
Garden soil is often too heavy and may contain diseases or pests. A high-quality potting mix provides the right structure and nutrients for your potted tomatoes. Some mixes even come with added organic matter like compost or peat moss, which can help retain moisture and provide nutrients.
3. Proper Planting Depth
Secret Tip: Plant the tomato seedlings deep, so that two-thirds of the plant is under the soil.
Tomato plants have the ability to develop roots all along their stems. Planting them deep in the soil will encourage a stronger root system, making the plant more stable and better able to absorb nutrients.
4. Regular Fertilization
Secret Tip: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time and then switch to a high-phosphorus formula once the plants start to flower.
Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization to produce well. Starting with a balanced fertilizer ensures that the plant gets all the essential nutrients, while switching to a high-phosphorus formula encourages fruit production.
5. Consistent Watering
Secret Tip: Use a drip irrigation system or a self-watering container to maintain consistent soil moisture.
Tomatoes hate to be waterlogged but also dislike drying out. Maintaining consistent soil moisture can be challenging but is crucial for preventing issues like blossom end rot. A drip irrigation system or a self-watering container can help you achieve this balance.
6. Pruning and Staking
Secret Tip: Use stakes or cages to support your plants and remove non-essential leaves to improve air circulation.
Tomato plants can become quite heavy as they bear fruit. Providing proper support with stakes or cages will help keep the plant upright and make it easier to harvest. Pruning non-essential leaves can also improve air circulation, reducing the risk of diseases like blight.
7. Monitor for Pests and Diseases
Secret Tip: Regularly check the underside of leaves for signs of pests like aphids or spider mites and treat with organic pesticides if necessary.
Even the healthiest of tomato plants can fall victim to pests and diseases. Regular monitoring can help you catch any potential issues early. If you do spot pests, opt for organic pesticides to keep your tomatoes as natural as possible.
By following these 7 secret tips, you’ll be well on your way to growing delicious, healthy tomatoes right in your own containers. Happy gardening!
