Phosphorus (P): Key for root development, flowering and fruiting.
Potassium (K): Strengthens plants, increases resistance to diseases and stress (e.g. drought, heat), supports fruit quality.
2. Micronutrients:
Iron (Fe): Essential for photosynthesis. Helps produce chlorophyll.
Manganese (Mn): Participates in respiration, photosynthesis and the synthesis of plant hormones.
Zinc (Zn): Supports root development and strengthens disease resistance.
How to Prepare Soil for Tomatoes
1. Check the pH of the soil
Tomatoes grow best in slightly acidic soil – pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Soil that is too acidic or alkaline limits the absorption of nutrients. A pH test allows you to adjust the conditions to the needs of the plants.
2. Add organic matter
Compost or well-fermented manure improves soil structure, increases water retention capacity and provides nutrients.
3. Replenish nutrient deficiencies
It is worth enriching the soil with organic fertilizer, such as bone meal (phosphorus), fish meal (nitrogen) or natural multi-component fertilizer. This will allow the plants to get off to a healthy start.
4. Add lime or wood ash
If the soil is too acidic, it is worth adding garden lime or wood ash – the latter provides additional potassium and calcium. In slightly acidic soil, you can add 1 tablespoon of baking soda, which will help balance the pH.
5. Combine baking soda with wood ash
This is a simple and effective soil improvement mix. Adding 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of ash to each planting hole enriches the soil with calcium, potassium and micronutrients necessary for tomato growth.
Benefits of adding soda and ash
pH regulation: Both ingredients help maintain the proper pH level, which increases the availability of nutrients.
Better fruit quality: Calcium from the ash prevents dry spots on the ends of the fruit (so-called dry end rot).
Rich in minerals: Ash provides a lot of potassium, and soda provides small amounts of minerals that support plant immunity.
Summary
Juicy, healthy tomatoes start with well-prepared soil. By enriching it with the right macro- and micronutrients, you provide your plants with everything they need for strong growth and abundant fruiting. Natural additives such as baking soda and wood ash can significantly improve soil quality and increase yields.
Take care of your soil now – and your tomatoes will reward you with tasty, healthy fruit all season long!
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