Regardless of whether you’re an expert or new to gardening, it’s important to remember that soil nourishment is essential when it comes to growing healthy tomatoes.
The finest fertilizers for tomatoes must contain essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as magnesium, calcium, zinc, and boron.
With the proper guidance and fertilizer, you’ll have amazing harvests year by year.
Keep in mind that there is no perfect fertilizer that works best year-round, and this is especially important for tomatoes, as they require different care during different seasons.
Below, we present the best fertilizer for tomatoes available on Amazon, which will help you create a lush tomato garden.
Read on!
Top Pick
The fertilizer powder by Greenway Biotech is our top pick product.
It’s a 100% water-soluble substance that provides up to 1000 gallons of fertilizer.
Moreover, the fertilizer’s NPK ratio is 4-18-38, plus it contains boron, copper EDTA, iron EDTA, manganese EDTA, zinc EDTA, and molybdenum.
Additionally, the professionally mixed formula contains only high-quality ingredients, free from heavy metals and other harmful substances.
You can be certain to get a top-notch product at a reasonable price.
Budget Pick
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Jobe’s 50 organic spikes won’t disappoint you, and they’re specially formulated for optimum tomato growth.
Jobe’s proprietary Biozome improves soil conditions, helps resist diseases and insects as well as drought during the growing season.
This is an eco-friendly product that promotes root growth and doesn’t contain any synthetic chemicals.
Quick Navigation
Which Nutrients Are Essential for Tomato Growth?
As with other plants, tomatoes require the three basic nutrients for healthy plant growth. Therefore, when buying a fertilizer, always check the NPK ratio.
- Phosphorus encourages root and fruit growth and development. It must be present in both the growing and the final phases.
- Nitrogen is important for foliage, but you have to be careful when applying since too much of it might cause bushy plants with low fruit yield.
- Potassium helps plants grow quickly and produce fruit and flowers. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in the process of photosynthesis and disease resistance.
What’s the Best NPK Ratio for Tomatoes?
Firstly, the type of fertilizer you use depends on your soil, and to get this right, you’ll need to test your soil.
For example, if the soil is properly balanced or high in nitrogen, you should use a fertilizer with a lower level of nitrogen but higher in phosphorus, such as a 5-10-5 or 5-10-10 mixed fertilizer.
On the other hand, if there’s a lack of nitrogen, you might want to try a balanced fertilizer with an 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 NPK ratio.
If you can’t test your soil, but have never had problems with it, we’d recommend using a higher phosphorus tomato plant fertilizer.
When to Use Fertilizer?
Tomato seeds can germinate on their own because the seed contains enough nutrients to put up the first real leaves, so in the initial phase, your plants don’t require the help of fertilizer.
Once the seeds have germinated, they’ll grow rather quickly, and you’ll need to use some fertilizer. You can expect to see fruit within four months.
It’s essential to note that full-grown plants also require fertilizing, and you must closely monitor their growth to determine when they need fertilizer.
Why are Organic Fertilizers Good?
Unlike synthetic fertilizers that contain GMOs, the organic ones are safe for use in your home garden, around children and pets, and they’re eco-friendly.
All organic tomato fertilizers are composed of ingredients sourced from nature and not genetically modified.
When compared to synthetic fertilizers, the downside of organic fertilizers is that they work a bit slower.
If you’re looking for a certified organic product, look for the OMRI certification or a similar certification from a reputable organization that confirms the product’s ingredients.
Organic fertilizers are essential in providing beneficial microbes and fungi, which help the plants grow through a process known as symbiosis.
Symbiosis is a process in which two organisms benefit from each other, and this occurs between tomato plants and fungi, as well as other microorganisms.
For instance, the Mycorrhizal fungi can spread deep in the ground and deliver phosphorus to the tomato roots in exchange for sugar and starch.
If you have an established garden, multiple symbiotic processes are likely already occurring. However, when building a new garden, fertilizers can encourage these processes.
Aside from this, there are a few other reasons why you should use organic tomato fertilizers:
- Easy to use
- Sustainable & eco-friendly
- No harmful synthetic ingredients
What Types of Fertilizers are There?
There are several types of tomato fertilizers, categorized by their distribution methods. These methods include granules, spikes, liquids, or water-soluble fertilizers.
Granular Fertilizers
These fertilizers are typically applied to the soil or at the base of the plant.
To activate them, add water immediately after applying them to the soil. Additionally, there are slow or continuous-release granules.
Slow-release granules have a long-lasting effect because the nutrients are slowly released over a couple of months, and you don’t have to apply them as often.
Spikes
Spikes are easy to store in the off-season, and you will need to use them a couple of times during the year, thanks to the slow-release formula.
They’re a good option to help you avoid over-fertilization because they are pre-measured.
Water-soluble Fertilizers
As the name implies, these fertilizers are easily dissolved in water, or if they’re in powder form, you can sprinkle them around the plant or mix them with the soil and then add water.
Usually, the tomato plant will absorb these nutrients in 10-14 days.
Liquid Fertilizers
Liquid fertilizers provide instant nutrients to your plants, allowing you to see results quickly.
These liquid fertilizers are highly concentrated and can be dangerous for baby plant,s so make sure you dissolve them according to the instructions.
You can apply them with a spray bottle, watering ca,n or garden sprayer.
What if I Over-fertilize My Plants?
As we mentioned earlier, a lack of nutrients can result in stagnant growth, disease, and inhibited fruit.
However, there is something known as excess fertilization, and it can be much worse than a lack of nutrients in the soil.
When there aren’t enough nutrients in the soil, your tomato plant can struggle and still produce some fruits, however, if you add too much fertilizer the results might be catastrophic for the plant.
Some signs tell if you’re using too much fertilizer, and you’ll know when to stop:
- Yellow leaves can be a result of excessive nitrogen in the soil. If this happens, the tomato is unable to absorb enough water, and thus the leaves turn yellow.
- Delayed flowers and bushy leaves can also be a result of excess nitrogen.
- Sediment build-up and fungi growth on the top surface of the soil can also be a sign of over-fertilization.
- Sudden loss of leaves.
Fertilizer for Tomato Plants Review
1. Greenway Biotech Water Soluble Tomato Fertilizer
Highlighted Features
- 100% water-soluble
- Professional formula
- Ideal for hydroponics and soil use
- No harmful ingredients
- NPK 4-18-38
Everyone loves a tasty tomato! Whether you want to cook it with some pasta or eat it raw, it’s important to have a full flavor.
To achieve this, you need the right blend of nutrients, and this product by Greenway Biotech provides you with just the right ingredients.
This is a special formula that’s free from harmful ingredients and is 100% water-soluble.
Also, the 5-pound concentrated fertilizer can provide you with 1000 gallons of liquid tomato fertilizer packed with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for optimal plant growth.
Moreover, this formula has been carefully blended to ensure your plants receive the exact amount of nutrients they need, whether you grow them in a hydroponic garden or in soil.
2. Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed Tomato Plant Food
Highlighted Features
- Contains micronutrients
- Feeds up to 3 months
- Suitable for in-ground & containers
- Contains calcium
- NPK 8-2-12
You’ll be glad to hear that this Miracle-Gro fertilizer contains all the necessary ingredients to feed the microbes in the soil.
Actually, microbes work by breaking down organic ingredients into beneficial nutrients that promote root strength and expansion. This, in turn, increases water intake efficiency.
What’s more, the Shake ‘N Feed contains calcium, which encourages plant quality and creates long-lasting vegetable plants.
Also, it helps prevent calcium deficiency diseases in edible crops.
The recommended dosage is to reapply every 3 months and to water regularly to maintain a beautiful garden throughout the year.
3. Jobe’s Organic Fertilizer
Highlighted Features
- Organic granular fertilizer
- OMRI listed
- Contains JobeBiozome
- Improves soil condition
- NPK 2-5-3
Jobe’s tomato fertilizer is an organic mixture that doesn’t contain synthetic chemicals, and it’s OMRI-listed.
Moreover, it helps improve the soil environment for your plants, thereby preventing the depletion of essential nutrients, enhancing nutrient uptake, and reducing the risk of disease, insect infestations, and drought.
Jobe’s Biozome is an extremely aggressive, proprietary microorganism, specifically an archaea, that breaks down material to provide faster results.
Furthermore, it helps improve soil conditions and combat disease and other unfavorable conditions during a single growing season.
All Jobe organic fertilizers are renewable, biodegradable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.
They deliver long-term results without the need for synthetic help.
4. Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Tomato Plant Food
Highlighted Features
- Instant feed
- Great for tomatoes
- Safe for all plants
- 3 lbs. package
- NPK 18-18-21
Miracle-Gro water-soluble fertilizer is the ideal solution for your hungry plants.
As soon as you start using this product, you’ll notice how your plants become bigger and bountiful.
What’s more, it works with all types of vegetables, and for best results, it’s recommended to apply every 7-14 days in the course of one growing season.
It’s best when used in conjunction with the Miracle-Gro garden feeder. Fill the jar with fertilizer, attach it to a garden hose, turn on the water, and it’s ready for use.
However, never forget to start spraying from the base of the plants and always review the instructions before applying.
5. Plant Magic Organic Fertilizer
Highlighted Features
- Easy application
- Dependable & safe
- Saves time & money
- 100% money-back guarantee
- NPK 6-5-5
Experienced gardeners swear by this magical fertilizer!
One of the secrets that makes this product stand out is the 55 or more trace minerals and millions of beneficial microorganisms contained in this mix.
Organic Plant Magic has developed a method to extract and refine the fungi and bacteria found in compost piles, incorporating them into this exceptional blend.
Once you start applying this fertilizer, you’ll notice amazing growth, color, and flavor in your tomatoes.
It encourages the plants to express their full potential and provides a vibrancy you’ve never seen before.
As you know, synthetic fertilizers aren’t good for plants, and this is why Organic Plant Magic favors biology over synthetics and strives to improve your plants naturally.
6. Espoma Tomato-tone Organic Fertilizer
Highlighted Features
- Organic mixture
- Perfect for plump tomatoes
- 15 essential nutrients
- Eco-friendly
- NPK 3-4-6
Providing good soil nourishment is essential for optimal and healthy tomato growth.
Espoma’s all-natural and organic plant food is enhanced with thousands of living microbes, and it’s approved for organic gardening.
You’ll love the professional formula, which is perfect for all types of tomatoes.
It helps provide a safe, continuous, and balanced feeding, which results in juicy and plump tomatoes.
This comprehensive formula contains all 15 essential nutrients for optimal tomato growth, and it’s eco-friendly, ensuring safe use for both you and the environment.
7. Jobe’s Organics Tomato Fertilizer Spikes
Highlighted Features
- Slow-release spikes
- OMRI listed
- Jobe’sBiozome
- Easy to use
- NPK 2-7-4
The 50 fertilizer spikes by Jobe will make your gardening life easier in no time.
It’s an organic product that’s pre-measured to provide your plants with the necessary nourishment at their roots. The slow-release formula allows for application every 6-8 weeks.
Additionally, it’s OMRI-listed for organic gardening, ensuring you receive a high-quality product for excellent results.
As with all of Jobe’s products, this fertilizer contains the Jobe’s Biozome microorganism, which provides faster results.
You’ll notice an improvement in soil conditions, and your tomatoes will be better equipped to resist diseases, insects, and drought during the growing season.
Since the fertilizer comes in the form of spikes, you don’t have to worry about making a mess when applying.
8. Dr. Earth Organic Tomato Fertilizer
Highlighted Features
- Optimum nutrient levels
- No GMO
- Feeds for several months
- 100% organic
- NPK 4-6-3
Dr. Earth’s fertilizer is designed to feed a variety of vegetables, including both summer and winter produce, as well as container plants, and to improve native yard soil.
It’s ideal for use during the primary seed planting, transplanting, or as topsoil or fertilizer.
You’ll love this product because it’s non-GMO, safe for both humans and animals, and contains no synthetic chemicals, chicken compost, or other toxic ingredients to worry about.
Moreover, it’s rich in proteins, carbohydrates, multi-minerals, humic acids, and trace elements that encourage healthy soils for growing healthy vegetables for you and your family.
This is a sustainable product made in the USA by inspired environmentalists who want a positive change in the world.
9. Tomato-Tone 18-Pound Fertilizer by Espoma
Highlighted Features
- Healthy & plump tomatoes
- 18 pounds
- Prevents blossom-end rot
- Organic
- NPK 3-4-6
If you want buckets full of large, juicy tomatoes, don’t think twice and purchase this product.
It’s a top-notch fertilizer that helps in growing healthy and plump tomatoes.
Happy gardeners swear by this product as their favorite. Its NPK ratio of 3-4-6 and 8% calcium does wonders for your outdoor or container garden.
Furthermore, this organic fertilizer promotes the growth of more flowers with its long-lasting, slow-release properties and the assistance of exclusive Bio-tone microbes.
This product is derived from feather meal, poultry manure, bone meal, alfalfa meal, sulfate of potash, greensand, and gypsum.
10. Neptune’s Harvest Tomato & Veg Fertilizer
Highlighted Features
- Increases vigor & volume
- Ideal for vegetables
- Helps with drought
- No assembly needed
- NPK 2-4-2
This tomato and veg fertilizer will do wonders for your tomato garden.
Ideally, you can apply it every 1-2 weeks during the vegging stage of the tomato plants.
It’s good to know that it provides the necessary nutrients for vigorous and strong plants with even stronger roots.
What’s more, it encourages strong root zones and lush foliage, and it also increases the plant’s tolerance to different weather conditions or diseases.
As the name implies, this fertilizer is made from fresh North Atlantic whole fish and seaweed, yucca extract, molasses, and humic acids.
Its unique design will help you grow tomatoes with more flavor, as well as an increased stem and stalk mass, which eventually results in a higher yield.
Final Thoughts
Tomatoes are annual, heavy feeder plants, which means they require more fertilizer than others.
This is why it’s essential to provide your tomato plants with external help and enrich the soil in your garden.
If you’re struggling to choose a fertilizer to help you with this, we recommend our top pick fertilizer powder by Greenway Biotech.
This is a water-soluble substance that’ll provide you with 1000 gallons of fertilizer. You’ll get a top-notch product at a reasonable price.
For a more affordable option, consider Jobe’s 50 organic spikes. They’re specially formulated for optimum tomato growth.
Jobe’s Biozome improves soil conditions in the long term and helps plants fight disease and drought.
Our list features a variety of high-quality tomato fertilizers, ensuring that one of them will be a great choice.
Happy Gardening!