The best fertilizer for tomatoes depends on soil conditions and growth stages, but generally, a balanced fertilizer with essential nutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) is recommended. Here are key points to consider:

Recommended Fertilizers for Tomatoes

• Organic Options:
  • Compost: High-quality, well-decomposed compost is excellent for tomatoes, improving soil structure and supplying nutrients. Apply a 4-inch layer before planting and maintain with a 1-inch layer yearly

* **Blood Meal:** Provides nitrogen, which is crucial for tomato growth. Adding about 2 tablespoons per planting hole mixed with soil is beneficial

* **Kelp Meal:** Adds potassium and trace minerals that tomatoes need, supporting overall plant health

* **Fish Emulsion:** A nitrogen-rich liquid fertilizer that can be applied throughout the season but should be diluted to avoid burning plants

* **Bone Meal:** Supplies phosphorus, important for root development and fruiting, but takes weeks to break down

* **Cottonseed Meal:** Another organic granular fertilizer option, though use cautiously

• Commercial Fertilizers:
  • Balanced NPK fertilizers such as 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 are effective if soil tests show nutrient deficiencies

* Fertilizers with higher phosphorus (middle number) like 8-32-16 or 12-24-12 can promote larger fruit size

* Products formulated specifically for tomatoes often have ratios like 3-4-6 or 4-7-10, supporting different growth stages

* Combination of Compound D fertilizer (7-14-7) with gypsum (calcium source) at about 200 kg/ha has been shown to improve tomato fruit quality and shelf life

Fertilizing Tips

• Apply fertilizer before or during planting, about two weeks before flowering, and again when fruits begin to form

• Side-dress tomatoes every 3-4 weeks during the growing season with about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of fertilizer per plant, keeping fertilizer away from stems and leaves

• Water well after fertilizing to help nutrients reach roots

• Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nutrients can harm plants

Additional Nutrients

• Magnesium and Sulfur: Epsom salt can be used to supply these micronutrients, promoting healthy foliage and nutrient uptake

In summary, the best fertilizer for tomatoes is a balanced source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, supplemented by organic matter like compost and specific amendments such as blood meal and kelp meal. Adjust fertilizer type and timing based on soil tests and plant growth stages for optimal yield and fruit quality