Tomato plants have high nutrient requirements. So it makes sense to plant the plants directly in the compost soil. Here you have to consider the stage of development, because the nutrient requirements change over time.

Young plants can be grown in the compost

Claims of the seedlings

Although tomatoes are heavy feeders, they have different nutritional needs at different stages of development. The roots of the seedlings need a nutrient-poor substrate. Mature compost soil can cause the roots to burn due to the oversupply of nutrient salts. In a nutrient-poor soil, the roots are encouraged to grow because they have to go in search of nutrients. In the nutrient-rich substrate, the nutrients inhibit root growth.

Tomato seeds need:

  • Seed or potting soil
  • a mixture of garden soil, sand, and compost, one part each
  • Uniform earth with natural clay or perlite

Young plants need nutrients

In the growth phase, the young plants need more nutrients, which they put into the formation of leaves and flowers. These plants can be planted directly onto the compost when it is well matured and free of coarse particles such as pieces of bark or other plant debris. Stale compost soil that has been stored for at least a year is ideal. It offers ideal water drainage and a crumbly structure that ensures optimal ventilation. The roots can develop unhindered in this substrate.

Nutrient requirements of mature tomato plants

The heavy feeders constantly need sufficient nutrients so that they can form juicy fruits. Nitrogen supports plant growth. Plants need phosphorus for the development of flowers and fruits. This chemical compound supports the development of a strong root system and supports vitality. The plants become more resistant to diseases. Potassium also protects against diseases and makes the plants more resistant to cold. Various trace elements such as zinc, iron, copper, manganese and boron are important for healthy growth. The compost contains all the necessary nutrients, so that additional fertilizer is not necessary.

Yellowing Leaves

Yellowing of the lower leaves does not necessarily indicate a nutrient deficiency. The plant extracts nutrients from the lower leaves in order to invest them in the fast-growing upper leaves. In this case, fast-acting fertilization does not bring about any improvement. It causes the plant to shoot up undesirably and develop fertile stems.

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Care tips