Tomatoes are heavy feeders:
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Add slow-release fertilizer at planting
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Supplement with liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks
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Use balanced NPK formulas: 10-10-10 or 5-10-10
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Don’t over-fertilize — too much nitrogen = lots of leaves, fewer fruits
8. Supporting Your Tomato Plants
Even bush types benefit from support:
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Use cages, stakes, or trellises
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Install support at planting time
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Tie stems gently with soft twine or plant ties
9. Managing Pests and Diseases
Prevention and early action are vital:
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Common pests: aphids, whiteflies, hornworms
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Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
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Ensure air circulation and prune excess foliage
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Avoid overhead watering — wet leaves lead to fungal infections
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Remove diseased leaves immediately
10. Pruning and Maintenance Tips
Regular care leads to healthier plants:
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Prune suckers (especially for indeterminate types)
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Remove yellow or damaged leaves
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Check soil, moisture, supports, and plant health weekly
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Stay ahead of issues before they become major problems
11. Harvesting at the Right Time
Harvest when tomatoes are:
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Fully colored
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Slightly soft to the touch
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Glossy and fragrant
If picking early (e.g., before frost), allow them to ripen indoors in a warm spot.
Avoid refrigeration, which affects flavor and texture.
Enjoy fresh, or use in salads, sauces, and salsas!
