When planting tomatoes, put crushed eggshells and Epsom salt in the hole for added nutrients. Avoid adding banana peels or fish heads in the hole.
Tomatoes are a staple in many home gardens, and knowing what to put in the planting hole can have a significant impact on the plant’s growth and yield. By carefully selecting the right ingredients for the planting hole and avoiding detrimental ones, you can create the optimal environment for your tomato plants to thrive.
We will discuss seven things that should be added to the tomato planting hole and seven things that should be avoided. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a novice, understanding these factors can help you achieve successful tomato cultivation and a bountiful harvest.
Importance Of Preparing The Tomato Planting Hole
When planting tomatoes, the method of preparing the planting hole significantly influences the health and productivity of your tomato plants. Properly preparing the hole ensures that the tomato plants receive the necessary nutrients and ideal growing conditions, setting the stage for a successful yield.
Soil Conditions
Soil consistency and quality have a direct impact on the growth of tomato plants. Prior to planting, it’s essential to evaluate the texture of the soil to ensure it is well-draining and loamy. Sandy or clay soils may hinder proper drainage and root development, so amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost, can improve its structure and fertility.
Nutrient Requirements
Tomatoes have specific nutrient requirements, particularly for essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Incorporating organic fertilizers or compost into the planting hole can provide a continuous supply of nutrients to the roots as the plant grows. It’s crucial to avoid excessive fertilization, as this can lead to imbalances and hinder plant development.
By paying careful attention to the soil conditions and nutrient requirements through the preparation of the tomato planting hole, you can support the health and vitality of your tomato plants, setting the stage for a bountiful harvest.
7 Things To Put In Your Tomato Planting Hole
When it comes to planting tomatoes, ensuring the right nutrients are available for the plant is crucial for a successful harvest. By adding certain components to the planting hole, you can provide your tomato plants with the necessary elements they need to thrive. Here are seven things to put in your tomato planting hole, each of which plays a vital role in the plant’s growth and development:
Compost
Compost is a valuable addition to the tomato planting hole as it enriches the soil with essential nutrients and improves its structure. By adding a layer of compost to the hole, you can enhance the overall fertility and drainage of the soil, providing a favorable environment for healthy root development and plant growth.
Bone Meal
Bone meal is a rich source of phosphorus, which is essential for root development and flower/fruit production in tomato plants. Adding bone meal to the planting hole can promote strong root growth and improve the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients from the soil, ultimately leading to a bountiful harvest.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, can be beneficial for tomato plants as it aids in the uptake of essential nutrients and supports overall plant health. Incorporating Epsom salt into the planting hole can help prevent magnesium deficiency and promote vigorous growth, leading to healthier and more productive tomato plants.
Mycorrhizal Fungi
Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, enhancing their ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. Adding mycorrhizal fungi to the planting hole can improve the plant’s resilience to environmental stress and increase its overall nutrient uptake, ultimately contributing to stronger and more productive tomato plants.
Crushed Eggshells
Crushed eggshells can be added to the tomato planting hole to provide a slow-release source of calcium, which is essential for preventing disorders such as blossom end rot in tomato plants. By incorporating crushed eggshells, you can ensure that your tomato plants have access to sufficient calcium, promoting healthy fruit development and reducing the risk of nutrient deficiencies.
Aspirin
Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which can act as a natural immune booster for tomato plants, helping them withstand disease and stress. Adding a crushed aspirin tablet to the planting hole can potentially enhance the plant’s resistance to certain pathogens and promote overall plant vigor, contributing to a more robust and productive tomato crop.
Organic Matter
Including organic matter such as well-rotted manure or compost in the tomato planting hole can improve soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability. Organic matter enriches the soil, providing a steady supply of essential nutrients to the plants and fostering a healthy and balanced soil ecosystem, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of the tomato plants.
7 Things You Shouldn’t Add To Your Tomato Planting Hole
When planting tomatoes, there are certain items you should avoid adding to the planting hole to ensure the optimal growth and health of your tomato plants.
Synthetic Fertilizers
Using synthetic fertilizers in the planting hole can disrupt the natural balance of nutrients in the soil, potentially harming the tomato plants rather than supporting their growth.
Fresh Manure
Although manure can be beneficial for the soil, fresh manure should not be added directly to the tomato planting hole as it may contain high levels of nitrogen that can burn the roots of the plants.
Chemical Pesticides
It is essential to avoid adding chemical pesticides to the tomato planting hole as they can harm not only the targeted pests but also the beneficial organisms in the soil, affecting the overall ecosystem of the plant bed.
Lime
Adding lime to the tomato planting hole can alter the soil pH, potentially making it too alkaline for the tomato plants, leading to nutrient deficiencies and poor growth.
Herbicide-treated Grass Clippings
Grass clippings treated with herbicides should not be added to the tomato planting hole as the residual chemicals can negatively impact the soil and the health of the tomato plants.
Plastic Or Metal Containers
Avoid placing plastic or metal containers in the tomato planting hole as they can hinder the root development and drainage of the plants, impacting their overall health and growth.
Rocks Or Gravel
Adding rocks or gravel to the tomato planting hole can impede the proper growth of the roots, leading to drainage issues and potentially suffocating the plants.
By avoiding the addition of these items to your tomato planting hole, you can ensure that your tomato plants have the best possible start for a successful growing season.

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Alternative Companion Plants For Tomatoes
When it comes to growing healthy and vibrant tomatoes, choosing the right companion plants can significantly enhance their growth and deter pests. Here are some alternative companion plants that you can consider planting alongside your tomatoes:
Basil
Basil is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes. It repels pests such as mosquitoes and flies, and its aromatic foliage can improve the flavor of tomatoes. Placing basil near your tomato plants can help in optimizing their growth and taste.
Marigold
Marigold is known for its ability to repel nematodes and other harmful insects, making it an ideal companion plant to safeguard your tomato plants. Its bright flowers can also attract pollinators, promoting better fruit set in your tomato garden.
Nasturtium
Nasturtium acts as a natural pest repellent, particularly against aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs. Their vibrant flowers can attract beneficial insects like bees and hoverflies, creating a balanced ecosystem for your tomatoes to thrive.
Borage
Borage is a beneficial companion plant that improves the overall health of tomato plants. It repels harmful insects, enhances pollination, and enriches the soil with nutrients. Its beautiful blue flowers add aesthetic appeal to your tomato garden.
Best Practices For Watering And Mulching Tomato Plants
When it comes to growing healthy and bountiful tomato plants, best practices for watering and mulching play a crucial role. Providing the right amount of water and ensuring proper mulching can significantly impact the overall health and productivity of your tomato plants. In this article, we will explore deep watering techniques and the benefits of mulching with organic materials to help you make the most of your tomato planting hole.
Deep Watering Techniques
Deep watering is essential for developing a strong and healthy root system for your tomato plants. Shallow watering can lead to weak root structures and make the plants more susceptible to drought stress. When you water your tomato plants, ensure that the water penetrates deep into the soil to encourage the roots to grow downwards, creating a robust foundation for the plants.
- Water the plants at the base to minimize evaporation and ensure that the water reaches the root zone.
- Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system for efficient and targeted watering, minimizing water waste.
- Water deeply but less frequently to encourage the roots to seek moisture at lower soil levels, promoting better drought resistance.
Mulching With Organic Materials
Mulching your tomato plants with organic materials offers numerous benefits, including regulating soil temperature, retaining moisture, and reducing weed growth. Furthermore, organic mulches gradually break down, enriching the soil with essential nutrients and improving its overall structure.
Consider using natural mulch options such as straw, shredded leaves, or grass clippings to provide a protective layer around your tomato plants.
Mulching with organic materials also helps to prevent soil compaction, erosion, and nutrient leaching, ensuring a healthy and thriving environment for your tomato plants.
Frequently Asked Questions Of 7 Things To Put In Your Tomato Planting Hole (& 7 Things You Shouldn’t)
What Should You Put In The Hole When Planting Tomatoes?
When planting tomatoes, put crushed eggshells in the hole to add calcium and help prevent blossom end rot.
What To Avoid Planting With Tomatoes?
Avoid planting cabbage, corn, broccoli, fennel, dill, potatoes, eggplant, and walnuts near tomatoes. These plants can stunt tomato growth by competing for nutrients.
Should I Putting An Egg In The Hole When Planting Tomatoes?
Yes, adding an egg to the hole when planting tomatoes can be beneficial for the soil. The crushed eggshells can provide essential nutrients for the plant.
How Much Baking Soda Do You Put In A Tomato Hole?
When planting a tomato, sprinkle less than ¼ cup of baking soda in the hole. Water the plant while growing, then add more baking soda when it’s halfway grown. This helps the plants grow sweeter.
Conclusion
The right ingredients in your tomato planting hole can make a significant difference in the health and yield of your plants. Keep in mind the helpful additions discussed earlier, and avoid harmful ones. This simple step can contribute to the successful growth of your tomatoes and a bountiful harvest in your garden.

I am a graduate of Bangladesh Agricultural University, where I delved into various agricultural disciplines, equipping me with a profound understanding of agriculture. Beyond academics, I have hands-on experience in gardening and crop cultivation. My passion is to embrace sustainable farming and horticulture. With a BSc in Agriculture, I am dedicated to promoting environmentally conscious and efficient agrarian practices.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agriculture (Hons.)
Master of Science. (Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security ) (MS)
Bangladesh Agricultural University