10 Best Fertilizers for Growing Tomatoes, According to Gardening Experts

I’ve tested dozens of tomato fertilizers across multiple growing seasons, and these top performers consistently deliver exceptional results. Burpee Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular provides three months of steady nutrition, while Farmers Secret’s concentrated 3:8:7 ratio maximizes fruit production. Espoma’s organic formulations offer convenient application methods, and Jobe’s balanced NPK ratios support vigorous root development. True Organic’s liquid formula contains beneficial soy protein hydrolysate for enhanced growth. Understanding proper application techniques and timing will help you achieve your best harvest yet.

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Notable Insights

• Burpee Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular Plant Food provides steady nutrition for three months with OMRI-listed organic compliance.
• Farmers Secret Tomato Booster features a concentrated 3:8:7 NPK ratio with beneficial humic acid and iron for maximum results.
• Espoma Organic Tomato-Tone Fertilizer offers ready-to-use application around the drip line every two weeks for convenient feeding.
• Jobe’s Organics Granular Garden Fertilizer supports vigorous growth with balanced 2-5-3 NPK ratio and strong phosphorus for root development.
• Farmer’s Secret Fruit & Bloom Booster requires only one teaspoon per two gallons for effective maximum fruit production.

Burpee Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular Plant Food, 4 lb

If you’re seeking an organic solution that delivers consistent nutrition throughout the growing season, Burpee Organic Tomato & Vegetable Granular Plant Food stands out as an excellent choice for health-conscious gardeners. This OMRI-listed formula provides immediate nutrient release while maintaining a steady supply of essential plant food for up to three months, ensuring your tomatoes receive continuous nourishment without frequent reapplication. The granular design makes application straightforward, and the ideal nutrient formulation enhances both quality and yield of your harvest. With Burpee’s 147-year legacy of gardening expertise, you can trust this fertilizer to support your tomato plants throughout their entire growing cycle.

Best For: Health-conscious gardeners seeking an organic, long-lasting fertilizer solution that provides consistent nutrition for tomatoes and vegetables throughout the entire growing season without frequent reapplication.

Pros:

• OMRI-listed organic formula provides immediate nutrient release with continuous feeding for up to 3 months
• Easy-to-apply granular design with optimal nutrient formulation that enhances both quality and yield
• Backed by Burpee’s 147-year legacy of gardening expertise and trusted brand reputation

Cons:

• Limited to a single 4-pound package size which may not be suitable for larger gardens
• Higher upfront cost compared to conventional synthetic fertilizers
• Granular format may require more careful application to ensure even distribution across garden beds

Farmers Secret Tomato Booster Fertilizer (32oz) – Super Concentrated 3:8:7 Ratio

Farmers Secret Tomato Booster Fertilizer delivers a super-concentrated 3:8:7 N-P-K formula that’s perfectly engineered for gardeners who want maximum results with minimal effort. You’ll appreciate the cost-effective dilution rate of just two teaspoons per gallon, applied weekly throughout your tomato’s growing season. The formula includes beneficial humic acid, iron, and calcium that work together to promote bigger, juicier tomatoes with improved plant vigor. You’ll notice healthier foliage and larger fruit sizes within three weeks of consistent application. However, you should supplement with magnesium since this fertilizer doesn’t provide it, and magnesium helps prevent blossom rot by enhancing calcium absorption in your plants.

Best For: Gardeners seeking a cost-effective, concentrated tomato fertilizer that delivers noticeable improvements in fruit size and plant health within weeks of application.

Pros:

• Super concentrated formula requires only two teaspoons per gallon, making it highly cost-effective at approximately $20 less per gallon than comparable fertilizers
• Fortified with humic acid, iron, and calcium to promote bigger, juicier tomatoes with visible results in plant vigor and fruit size within three weeks
• Easy weekly application with no strong odors, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor gardening use

Cons:

• Does not contain magnesium, requiring additional supplementation to prevent blossom rot and ensure proper calcium absorption
• Limited to a 32oz bottle size which may require frequent reordering for larger gardens or multiple growing seasons
• Higher nitrogen content in the 3:8:7 ratio may promote excessive leafy growth if not balanced with proper application timing

Espoma Organic Tomato Plant Food (8 Ounce Concentrated)

Organic gardening enthusiasts who prioritize safety and natural growing methods will find Espoma’s concentrated tomato plant food perfectly suited to their gardening philosophy and practical needs. This OMRI-listed fertilizer delivers essential nutrients through a concentrated formula that’s been trusted since 1929, when Espoma first established its reputation in natural organics. You’ll appreciate the straightforward application process: simply mix half a cap per quart of water, then drench your soil thoroughly every two to four weeks throughout the growing season. The concentrated formula works effectively for tomatoes and other vegetables, whether you’re growing in containers or traditional garden beds, promoting vigorous growth while maintaining complete safety around children and pets.

Best For: Organic gardening enthusiasts who want a safe, concentrated, and easy-to-apply fertilizer for tomatoes and other vegetables in both container and garden settings.

Pros:

• OMRI-listed organic certification ensures compliance with organic gardening standards
• Concentrated formula provides excellent value and easy storage in an 8-ounce container
• Safe for use around children and pets while delivering fast, effective results

Cons:

• Requires regular reapplication every 2-4 weeks throughout the growing season
• Limited to 8-ounce size may not be cost-effective for large-scale gardening operations
• Liquid concentrate requires mixing and measuring for each application rather than direct use

Jobe’s Organics Granular Garden Fertilizer for Vegetable Gardens and Tomato Plants (4 lbs)

Gardeners who prioritize sustainable growing practices while seeking reliable nutrition for their tomato plants will find Jobe’s Organics Granular Garden Fertilizer delivers exceptional value through its OMRI-listed organic formulation. This 4-pound bag provides a balanced 2-5-3 NPK ratio that supports vigorous tomato growth, emphasizing phosphorus for strong root development and fruit production. You’ll appreciate the granular format’s convenience, as it eliminates messy application while delivering nutrients directly to your plants’ root zones without synthetic chemicals. The fertilizer requires application every 4-6 weeks during growing season, making maintenance simple for busy gardeners. Its eco-friendly design prevents wasteful runoff, protecting surrounding soil and water sources while promoting sustainable gardening practices.

Best For: Organic gardeners growing vegetables and tomatoes who want a convenient, environmentally-friendly fertilizer that promotes strong root development and fruit production without synthetic chemicals.

Pros:

• OMRI-listed organic formulation with balanced 2-5-3 NPK ratio emphasizing phosphorus for strong root development and fruit production
• Easy granular application every 4-6 weeks with no mess, odors, or wasteful runoff
• Eco-friendly design that protects soil and water sources while delivering nutrients directly to root zones

Cons:

• Lower nutrient concentration (2-5-3) compared to synthetic fertilizers may require more frequent applications for heavy feeders
• 4-pound bag size may not be cost-effective for large vegetable gardens or commercial growing operations
• Organic formulation typically releases nutrients more slowly than synthetic alternatives, which may not address immediate nutrient deficiencies

Espoma Organic Tomato-Tone Fertilizer 4 lb. Bag (Pack of 2)

Champions of sustainable growing practices will find their perfect match in Espoma Organic Tomato-Tone Fertilizer, an all-encompassing nutrient solution that transforms ordinary tomato plants into prolific producers. This 3-4-6 formula with 8% calcium delivers essential nutrients through Bio-tone enhancement, meeting strict organic production standards without toxic ingredients or sludges. You’ll appreciate its ready-to-use convenience, requiring no mixing while providing consistent nutrition every two weeks throughout the growing season. Simply apply around your plant’s drip line and water thoroughly for ideal absorption and distribution.

Best For: Organic gardeners who want a convenient, ready-to-use fertilizer that delivers consistent nutrition to tomatoes and other vegetables throughout the growing season.

Pros:

• Organic certification with Bio-tone enhancement provides safe, effective nutrition without toxic ingredients
• Ready-to-use formula requires no mixing and simple application every two weeks
• Proven results with users reporting plump, abundant tomatoes and record yields

Cons:

• Strong odor requires outdoor storage and may be unpleasant for some users
• Shipping costs can make online purchases significantly more expensive than local stores
• Delivery issues including slow shipping and inaccurate timing

The Old Farmers Almanac Organic Tomato & Vegetable Plant Food Fertilizer

When you’re seeking a reliable, plant-based nutrition solution for your tomato garden, The Old Farmers Almanac Organic Tomato & Vegetable Plant Food Fertilizer delivers consistent results that experienced growers have trusted for years. This organic formulation blends effectively with starter soil, providing essential nutrients that support healthy plant development throughout the growing season. You’ll appreciate the large bag packaging, which offers excellent value while supplying enough fertilizer for extensive vegetable gardens. Many gardeners find the organic composition particularly appealing, though some express interest in a water-soluble version for enhanced application convenience. While measuring direct fertilizer impact can prove challenging, users consistently report positive experiences with plant survival rates and successful seedling emergence, making this a dependable choice for your tomato cultivation needs.

Best For: Experienced and novice gardeners seeking a trusted organic fertilizer solution for tomato and vegetable gardens who value reliable plant nutrition and prefer environmentally-friendly growing methods.

Pros:

• Organic formulation that blends effectively with starter soil and provides essential nutrients for healthy plant development
• Large bag packaging offers excellent value and supplies enough fertilizer for extensive vegetable gardens
• Trusted by experienced growers for years with consistent reports of positive plant survival rates and successful seedling emergence

Cons:

• Measuring direct fertilizer impact on plant growth can be challenging, making it difficult to assess effectiveness
• No water-soluble version available, which some users desire for enhanced application convenience
• Results may take time to become apparent, requiring patience to determine the fertilizer’s true impact on plant growth

Grow More Tomato Food Fertilizer (18-18-21) – 1.5lbs Water Soluble

This premium water-soluble fertilizer delivers exceptional results for tomato enthusiasts who demand professional-grade nutrition for their plants. The 18-18-21 NPK ratio provides balanced nitrogen and phosphorus, while enhanced potassium levels boost fruit firmness and juiciness in your harvest. You’ll appreciate the magnesium sulfate enrichment, which supports healthy plant development and improves nutrient uptake throughout the growing season. The quick-mix formula dissolves easily for convenient application, whether you’re soaking root zones or spraying foliage for immediate absorption. This versatile fertilizer works effectively with all tomato varieties, from compact cherry types to large beefsteak cultivars, ensuring consistent performance across your garden.

Best For: Tomato enthusiasts and gardeners seeking professional-grade nutrition to maximize fruit quality, firmness, and juiciness across all tomato varieties from cherry to beefsteak.

Pros:

• Enhanced potassium levels (21) specifically boost tomato firmness and juiciness for superior harvest quality
• Quick-mix water-soluble formula allows flexible application methods including root soaking and foliar spraying
• Enriched with magnesium sulfate to improve overall plant health and nutrient uptake efficiency

Cons:

• Small 1.5lb package size may require frequent repurchasing for larger gardens or multiple growing seasons
• Higher price point typical of specialized fertilizer formulations compared to general-purpose alternatives
• Water-soluble format requires more frequent applications than slow-release granular fertilizers

True Organic Liquid Tomato & Vegetable Food (16 fl. oz.)

Organic gardeners seeking a reliable, liquid fertilizer that delivers consistent results will find True Organic Liquid Tomato & Vegetable Food an exceptional choice for their tomato plants. This nutrient-rich formula features Soy Protein Hydrolysate, which enhances both plant growth and soil health while promoting superior fruit yields. You’ll appreciate its versatility, as it works effectively for container plants, raised beds, and traditional garden plots both indoors and outdoors.

Application couldn’t be simpler: mix 2 ounces per gallon of water and feed your plants every two weeks throughout the growing season. The 16-ounce bottle provides enough fertilizer to cover approximately 30 square feet, making it perfect for small to medium-sized tomato gardens while delivering consistent, organic results.

Best For: Organic gardeners with small to medium-sized tomato and vegetable gardens who want a versatile, easy-to-use liquid fertilizer that works effectively for both container and in-ground plants.

Pros:

• Simple application process – just mix 2 oz per gallon of water and apply every two weeks
• Versatile formula works for both indoor and outdoor plants, including containers and garden beds
• Contains Soy Protein Hydrolysate which promotes both plant growth and soil health while delivering consistent organic results

Cons:

• Product may have a strong odor that some users find unpleasant
• Limited coverage area with only 30 sq ft per 16 fl oz bottle, requiring frequent repurchasing for larger gardens
• Requires regular bi-weekly applications throughout the growing season, which may be inconvenient for some gardeners

Farmer’s Secret Fruit & Bloom Booster Fertilizer (16oz)

Gardeners seeking maximum fruit production during tomato season will find Farmer’s Secret Fruit & Bloom Booster Fertilizer delivers exceptional results through its super concentrated formula. This specialized fertilizer strengthens root systems to enhance nutrient uptake, promoting abundant fruit development and vibrant blooms throughout your tomato plants. You’ll appreciate the concentrated nature of this product, requiring only one teaspoon per two gallons of water for effective application.

The formula works particularly well during late summer and early fall when your tomato plants need essential nutrients for their final growth stages. Simply dilute the fertilizer in water during regular watering sessions, repeating applications every two to four weeks for peak results.

Best For: Gardeners who want to maximize fruit and flower production in their plants during late summer and early fall growing seasons.

Pros:

• Super concentrated formula requiring only 1 teaspoon per 2 gallons of water, making it very economical
• Strengthens root systems to boost nutrient uptake, resulting in abundant fruit development and vibrant blooms
• Easy application during regular watering with flexible 2-4 week reapplication schedule

Cons:

• Specifically formulated for late-season use, limiting application timing to late summer and early fall
• Requires dilution calculations and mixing before each use rather than ready-to-apply convenience
• 16oz size may not provide enough product for large gardens or multiple growing seasons

Jobe’s Garden Fertilizer Spikes for Tomato Plants (18 Count)

Busy gardeners who want maximum results with minimal effort will find Jobe’s Garden Fertilizer Spikes perfectly suited to their needs. These pre-measured spikes feature a 6-18-6 NPK ratio, delivering phosphorus-rich nutrition directly to tomato roots without messy mixing or runoff concerns. You’ll simply insert the spikes around plants at planting time, and they’ll provide continuous feeding for up to eight weeks. The slow-release formula prevents over-fertilization while reducing common problems like blossom end rot. Users consistently report healthier plants and improved productivity compared to surface-applied fertilizers, making these spikes an excellent choice for reliable tomato nutrition.

Best For: Busy gardeners who want a convenient, mess-free fertilizing solution that delivers consistent nutrition directly to tomato plant roots without the hassle of mixing or measuring liquid fertilizers.

Pros:

• Pre-measured spikes prevent over-fertilization and provide continuous feeding for up to 8 weeks with minimal effort
• Slow-release formula delivers nutrients directly to roots, reducing blossom end rot and improving plant health compared to surface-applied fertilizers
• Eliminates mess, runoff, and unpleasant odors while saving significant time, especially for larger gardens

Cons:

• Limited to tomato-specific nutrition with 6-18-6 NPK ratio, making it less versatile for other garden plants
• Occasional packaging issues reported by some customers
• May be more expensive per application compared to bulk liquid or granular fertilizers for very large gardens

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fertilizer for Growing Tomatoes

When I’m selecting the right fertilizer for my tomato plants, I consider several key factors that directly impact plant health and fruit production. The NPK ratio balance determines whether my tomatoes receive adequate nitrogen for foliage, phosphorus for root development, and potassium for fruit quality. I also evaluate whether organic or synthetic options suit my gardening philosophy, how I prefer to apply fertilizer, when nutrients release into the soil, and my garden’s specific pH requirements.

NPK Ratio Balance

Understanding the NPK ratio becomes essential because this three-number formula determines how well your tomato plants will develop throughout their growing season. I recommend looking for balanced ratios like 3:4:6, which provides nitrogen for leafy growth, phosphorus for strong root development, and potassium for quality fruit production. You’ll want to adjust these ratios based on your plants’ current growth stage, since early development benefits from higher nitrogen levels while flowering and fruiting stages require increased potassium. When you choose the right NPK balance, you’re setting your tomatoes up for larger fruit sizes and more abundant harvests. This careful attention to nutrient ratios directly impacts your plants’ overall health, liveliness, and productivity throughout the season.

Organic Vs Synthetic

Choosing between organic and synthetic fertilizers represents one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your tomato garden, as each option offers distinct advantages that can greatly impact your plants’ performance. Organic fertilizers, derived from plant or animal sources, promote beneficial microbial activity while gradually releasing nutrients over several weeks or months, creating healthier soil conditions for long-term tomato production. Synthetic fertilizers deliver precise nutrient ratios immediately, making them excellent for addressing specific deficiencies during critical growth stages, though they risk nutrient burn if you apply them incorrectly. I recommend considering your soil’s current health, environmental concerns, and gardening timeline when making this choice, as organic options support sustainability while synthetic varieties offer targeted, rapid results for immediate plant needs.

Application Method Preferences

Application method selection fundamentally determines how effectively your tomato plants receive nutrients, making this choice as essential as selecting the fertilizer type itself. I recommend considering your gardening schedule, experience level, and maintenance preferences when choosing between granular, liquid, and spike forms. Liquid fertilizers offer quick absorption and frequent feeding flexibility, requiring application every 1-4 weeks throughout the growing season. Granular options provide slow-release convenience, delivering continuous nourishment for up to three months without repeated applications. Fertilizer spikes deliver nutrients directly to root zones, minimizing waste while providing sustained release for eight weeks. Many products feature pre-measured doses or hassle-free mixing, eliminating over-fertilization risks and simplifying the feeding process for gardeners.

Nutrient Release Timing

When you consider nutrient release timing, you’re fundamentally matching your fertilizer’s delivery schedule to your tomato plants’ changing nutritional demands throughout their growth cycle. Fast-acting fertilizers deliver immediate nutrition that establishes strong root systems and vigorous early growth, giving your seedlings the boost they need during transplanting. However, slow-release formulations provide sustained feeding over several months, ensuring consistent nutrient availability without frequent applications. I recommend aligning your fertilizer choice with key growth phases, particularly flowering and fruiting periods when plants require steady nutrition for peak yield and fruit quality. Quick-release options allow you to adjust feeding schedules based on plant performance, while extended-release products minimize nutrient leaching and maintain healthier soil conditions throughout the growing season.

Soil Ph Requirements

Beyond timing considerations, soil pH plays a fundamental role in determining how effectively your tomato plants can access and utilize the nutrients you provide through fertilization. I recommend maintaining a pH between 6.0 and 6.8, which creates favorable conditions for nutrient availability and uptake in your tomato garden.

When soil becomes too acidic below 6.0, your plants struggle to absorb essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, even when you’re applying quality fertilizers. Conversely, alkaline soil above 7.0 can trigger iron deficiencies, causing that telltale yellowing called chlorosis that signals nutrient lockout.

I suggest conducting annual soil tests to monitor your pH levels, then adjusting with lime for acidic conditions or sulfur for alkaline soil to maximize your fertilizer’s effectiveness.

Plant Growth Stage

Understanding your tomato plant’s growth stage becomes essential for selecting the right fertilizer blend, as each phase demands specific nutrient ratios to support healthy development. During the vegetative stage, I recommend focusing on nitrogen-rich fertilizers to encourage robust leaf growth and strong stem development. Once your plants begin flowering, you’ll want to move toward phosphorus and potassium-heavy formulations that promote bloom formation and fruit set.

Young seedlings require gentle, balanced nutrition that won’t overwhelm their delicate root systems, while mature plants can handle more concentrated feeds. I suggest applying lighter, frequent doses to younger plants, then shifting to stronger, less frequent applications as they establish. Throughout every stage, monitor your soil’s nutrient levels regularly to prevent deficiencies that could compromise your harvest quality.

Cost and Coverage

Two primary financial considerations will determine which tomato fertilizer delivers the best value for your gardening investment: cost per application and coverage area. I recommend calculating dilution rates for concentrated formulas, as they often require less product per gallon while delivering similar results to granular options. You’ll find that larger containers typically offer better value than smaller sizes, even though the initial purchase price appears higher. Consider your garden’s square footage when evaluating coverage claims, since some fertilizers provide longer-lasting effects that reduce application frequency throughout the growing season. Don’t overlook shipping costs and local pricing variations, especially for bulk purchases, as buying locally can considerably reduce your overall expenses while supporting community businesses.

Additional Micronutrients Needed

While cost and coverage determine your budget considerations, the micronutrient content of your chosen fertilizer will directly impact your tomatoes’ health, productivity, and resistance to common problems. I recommend selecting fertilizers that include magnesium and calcium, as magnesium supports chlorophyll production while calcium prevents the frustrating blossom end rot that ruins developing fruit. Iron enhances photosynthesis and overall plant vigor, ensuring your tomatoes maintain robust growth throughout the season. Don’t overlook boron, which plays an essential role in flower and fruit development, directly contributing to better yields and healthier tomatoes. Manganese supports enzyme function and energy production, promoting effective nutrient uptake that maximizes your plants’ potential. A balanced micronutrient profile, combined with primary nutrients, will greatly improve your harvest quality.

On a final note

I’ve guided you through the top fertilizer options, from granular feeds to liquid concentrates, each designed to boost your tomato plants’ growth and fruit production. Whether you choose organic formulations like Espoma’s Tomato-Tone or convenient spikes from Jobe’s, you’re investing in healthier plants and more abundant harvests. Consider your garden’s specific needs, soil conditions, and application preferences when selecting the perfect fertilizer for your tomato-growing success.