After successfully growing strong and healthy seedlings from seeds, it is time to transplant them into the ground in a permanent location. However, even after transplanting, we must ensure the plants have the optimal conditions for healthy growth and high-quality yield. With plants, everything starts with the soil, so its composition must contain all the necessary nutrients to produce a healthy and abundant harvest.
Preparing the Soil for Planting
The best time to prepare the soil is in the fall, when you can till the land and enrich it with natural nutrients like manure and perform calcification if needed. However, even at the time of planting, certain nutrients must be added to provide the young plants with everything they need for a strong start. As I have emphasized many times before, a well-fed plant is a healthy plant.
Healthy plants are more resistant to diseases and pests, making subsequent plantation care easier and more manageable. For more tips on growing plants, be sure to follow our channel and enable notifications so you never miss a new video. The best production results occur when tomatoes are grown in deep, loose, well-drained, warm soils that slightly face south. These soils should have a good structure and be rich in nutrients in a form that is easily accessible to plants.
The Role of Manure in Plant Growth
Organic matter, commonly referred to as manure, is a natural biological byproduct of the digestion of various domestic animals or poultry. It is an excellent fertilizer used to feed agricultural crops and increase their yield. Manure contains essential elements such as potassium, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, and other trace elements that plants absorb to grow strong and healthy.
Additionally, manure contains beneficial bacteria and microorganisms, serving as a valuable food source for soil bacterial microflora. We have discussed manure extensively, including its quality, application methods, and optimal usage times. You can find a separate video on this topic, covering the differences between cow, sheep, horse, pig, and chicken manure, along with their unique benefits for different plants.
The Benefits of Using Ash as a Natural Fertilizer
Another natural nutrient frequently used in gardening is wood ash. Ash offers significant benefits when growing tomatoes and other plants, as it contains phosphorus and potassium in a form that is easily available to plants. Additionally, it contains calcium, iron, magnesium, sulfur, zinc, and other essential minerals.
The only element missing from ash is nitrogen, which evaporates during combustion. However, in the early stages of root system formation and stem development, a sufficient amount of phosphorus and potassium is required. As seedlings emerge, phosphorus plays a crucial role in promoting intensive root growth.
A robust root system ensures successful growth, earlier flowering, and accelerated fruit ripening. Potassium is equally important, as it is involved in the formation of sturdy stems. While nitrogen-potassium fertilizers are traditionally used, an excess of nitrogen in the initial growth phase can lead to excessive foliage development, delaying fruit production and increasing disease susceptibility.
Each element in ash-based fertilizer contributes uniquely to tomato development. Copper improves respiration and enhances the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates. Manganese aids in carbon dioxide absorption, while calcium supports metabolic processes and influences plant growth speed. Scientists estimate that ash contains nearly half of the elements in the periodic table, making it an invaluable resource.
Using Ash to Improve Soil and Plant Growth
Ash should be incorporated into the soil preparation stage for tomato seedlings. It enhances soil composition with essential nutrients and has an alkaline reaction, which helps neutralize soil acidity. When adding manure and ash, it is crucial to cover them with a thin layer of soil to prevent young tomato roots from coming into direct contact with the nutrients until they have strengthened.
Since ash is lightweight and bulky, accurate dosing is necessary. A 1-liter jar holds approximately 500 grams of ash powder, while a half-liter jar contains 250 grams, a standard glass holds 100 grams, and a spoonful contains about 6 grams.
When preparing soil, add between 700 grams and 1.5 kilograms of ash per square meter, depending on soil acidity levels. Under each tomato bush, apply about three tablespoons of ash, covering it with a thin layer of soil. When used as a general fertilizer, the recommended application is 100-150 grams per square meter. Sprinkle the powdered ash onto moist soil, mix it with a rake, and water thoroughly.
Tomatoes also benefit from liquid ash nutrients. Prepare a solution by dissolving 100 grams of ash powder in 10 liters of water. Let the mixture sit for 3-5 hours before applying 0.5 liters per tomato plant. This solution can also be used as a foliar spray by adding a small amount of eco-friendly soap to help it adhere to the plant. Foliar spraying with ash provides protection against pests while enriching the plant with nutrients.
The Importance of Deep Planting
We always emphasize that tomatoes must be planted deep because their strength lies in their roots. Tomato plants develop roots wherever their stems touch the soil. When the stem makes contact with the ground, it produces tiny white roots, which help the plant absorb water and nutrients essential for growth and development.
A deeper root system means better absorption of nutrients and water. The extra roots also help the plant remain stable under wind pressure. Early deep planting protects the plants from cold weather and spring frost, ensuring healthy development.
For optimal growth, plant tomato seedlings with two-thirds of the plant below the soil. The trench should be about 15 centimeters deep, with a length matching two-thirds of the plant’s height. Lay the tomato plant at a slight angle, ensuring the top leaves are exposed before covering the stem with soil.
The Role of Mulching in Tomato Cultivation
Mulching tomato plants with straw, hay, or other natural materials is highly beneficial. Mulch helps retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering, and suppresses weed growth, which can compete with tomatoes for nutrients. Using mulch creates a healthier environment for plants and improves overall yield.
Conclusion
By following these planting and fertilization techniques, you can ensure healthy tomato plants that produce high yields. From proper soil preparation and nutrient application to deep planting and mulching, each step plays a crucial role in successful tomato cultivation. We hope you find these tips helpful and encourage you to apply them throughout the gardening season. Stay tuned for more insights on growing healthy and productive plants!
