Tomatoes will grow in just about any type of soil, but to produce a thriving crop, it is best to provide them with a healthy organic soil structure. This is a soil that is nutrient rich, retains moisture, well-drained, and has a pH range from 5.8 – 7.0.
Soil is the key to any successful organic garden. A well-drained fertile loam is what is created when organic matter is used as a soil amendment to improve garden soil structure, nature does the rest of the work. Tomato plants thrive in this type of soil. It allows their root systems to expand and benefit from the natural nutrients found in a good healthy soil.
Testing soil pH levels should be a common practice. It measures the acidity or the alkalinity of the soil on a scale of 1 – 14, 7 being the neutral level. As the number on the scale go higher above 7, the greater the alkalinity, and the lower the number below 7 indicates greater acidity. Soil pH is very important, it shows the possible availability of nutrients in soil. Many nutrients are not readily available to plant life in high alkaline or acidic soils. Soil pH could be out of range for a variety of reasons, from natural environmental to human causes.
If the soil pH level is out of range for the crops you are growing, it can be adjusted. High alkalinity can be lowered or made more acidic by amending the soil with products such as acidifying nitrogen, aluminum sulfate, elemental sulfur, iron sulfate, sphagnum peat, and organic mulch. There are tables that provide the proper applications for all these products, along with the frequency of application. Do not try to rush the process, excessive amounts or to frequent of applications can harm plants.
A soil that is highly acidic can also be adjusted by amending it with products like hydrated lime, limestone, or wood ash. Adjusting a soil pH level is a slow process that may require repeated applications.
Soil structure is another concern when growing organic tomatoes. Tomato plants need a loose soil for their root systems to freely expand to support the weight and height of the plant. A good healthy organic soil structure is the ideal condition for tomato plants to thrive and produce a healthy crop.
Compost is an ideal source of organic matter when used as a soil amendment or even as a mulch around your tomato plants, it is rich in nutrients and contains many beneficial microorganisms. Composting your organic garden, yard and kitchen waste will greatly benefit your garden soil.
A environment friendly and healthy way of gardening. Organic Gardening is a way of gardening in harmony with nature. Growing a healthy and productive crop in a way that is healthier for both you and the environment.