4. Coffee Grounds for Nitrogen Boost
✅ How to Use It:
Dry used coffee grounds and sprinkle a thin layer around the base of the plant or mix them into compost.
✅ Why It Works:
Coffee grounds contain slow-releasing nitrogen, an essential nutrient for lush, green growth. They also improve soil texture by adding organic matter. However, fresh coffee grounds can be acidic, so let them dry before applying.
5. Aspirin Spray for Disease Resistance
✅ How to Use It:
Dissolve 1 uncoated aspirin (325 mg) in a gallon of water and spray on tomato leaves every 2-3 weeks.
✅ Why It Works:
Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which mimics a plant’s natural defense hormone. This activates the plant’s immune system, making it more resistant to diseases like blight, powdery mildew, and bacterial infections. Studies suggest this also boosts fruit production!
6. Mulch with Grass Clippings or Straw
✅ How to Use It:
Spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch (straw, shredded leaves, or dry grass clippings) around the base of the plant.
✅ Why It Works:
Mulch retains soil moisture, regulates temperature, and suppresses weeds. It also prevents soil from splashing onto the leaves, reducing the risk of fungal diseases like early blight and leaf spot.
7. Companion Planting for Pest Control
✅ How to Use It:
Plant basil, marigolds, garlic, or chives near tomato plants.
✅ Why It Works:
Basil enhances tomato flavor and repels aphids, whiteflies, and mosquitoes.
Marigolds release chemicals that deter nematodes and other soil pests.
Garlic and chives produce sulfur compounds that protect against fungal infections and deter insects.
Marigolds release chemicals that deter nematodes and other soil pests.
Garlic and chives produce sulfur compounds that protect against fungal infections and deter insects.
8. Prune & Remove Lower Leaves
✅ How to Use It:
Once the plant reaches 2 feet tall, remove the bottom 6-8 inches of leaves and any suckers (small shoots that grow between the main stem and branches).
✅ Why It Works:
Removing lower leaves improves airflow, reducing moisture buildup, which prevents fungal infections like blight and mildew. Pruning suckers directs the plant’s energy to fruit production instead of excess foliage.
9. Stake or Cage for Stronger Stems
✅ How to Use It: Install a tomato cage, stake, or trellis when planting, and secure the plant with soft ties as it grows.
✅ Why It Works:
Tomato plants can become top-heavy with fruit, causing stems to break. Staking keeps plants upright, improves air circulation, reduces disease risk, and prevents fruit from touching the ground, where they can rot.
10. Water Deeply & in the Morning
✅ How to Use It: Water at the base of the plant early in the morning, using 1-2 inches of water per week. Avoid overhead watering.
✅ Why It Works:
Deep watering encourages strong root development, making plants more drought-resistant.
Morning watering ensures moisture is absorbed before the heat of the day, reducing stress and evaporation.
Avoiding overhead watering prevents fungal diseases like blight and powdery mildew.
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