Everyone Loves My Pico De Gallo Salsa
If you’re searching for the best fertilizer for tomatoes and peppers so you can make fresh salsa for your Nachos, then you’re in the right place.
Below you’ll find 11 fertilizers, including my favorite brand.
Depending on where you live – what you’re growing makes a difference, so you’ll want to read the reviews carefully on any tomato and pepper fertilizers you get…
First, let’s talk about salsa…
The secret ingredients for my salsa are fresh tomatoes and peppers.
- Freshly cut tomatoes and peppers.
- Fresh chopped garlic and onion.
- Small pinch of cilantro.
- Small pinch of salt.
- Few ounces of olive oil.
- Adjust to your own taste buds.
Some folks call this recipe – Pico de Gallo – I call it delicious.
Look:
As a gardener, I love growing fresh tomatoes and peppers together so I can make salsa.
But I also enjoy using fresh tomatoes and peppers anywhere they taste good.
They add such a great flavor to tacos, tostadas, nachos, and just about anything you can smother with salsa or freshly chopped tomatoes and peppers.
Just the idea that something I’m eating came out of my garden makes everything taste better – even if it’s all only mental. 🙂
But, besides fresh tomatoes and peppers, there are so many other good reasons to grow them.
One of these is that they are very easy to grow if you have the right climate, soil conditions, and proper plant care.
And the best places to look for this information are with books or online. The best place I’ve found is to check out the gardening book section at your local library and ask for help to find the right one for you.
Tomato fertilizer
Of course, there’s also a lot of information online.
But if you’d like something specific and easy to use (like I do), then I suggest looking into the Sunset Western Garden Book published by Sunset Magazine.
I have an older edition, but the new one is just as good. It’s very easy to use, has lots of photos so you know what to expect when you go to the garden center or home improvement store and provides information on all regions of the U.S…
Not only will this booklet show you how to grow tomatoes and peppers, but each “planting guide” provides you with information on the ideal growing conditions for your plants, how many to plant in various regions of the country (i.e., states or regions), when to plant them, planting depth, proper spacing between plants, watering requirements, fertilizing needs (including organic), harvesting requirements, and even what diseases or pests to be on the lookout for.
If you think you’ll only use this book in one area of the country (i.e., where you currently reside), don’t get it – especially if you want to grow tomatoes and peppers outside year-round. The reason is that Sunset has a different planting guide for each region of the country. So you’d have to buy a new one every time you moved – which might actually be the best thing because then you would always know what plants would grow great wherever you lived.
I’ve included a link here so you can look inside or take a peek at other garden books online. You might also want to see if your local library has it first before buying your own copy.
Anyway, I know it’s early in the year to be thinking about this. But by now, you’ve probably got your seedlings (or plants) growing and are wondering how to keep them healthy through the summer months.
If you’re like me, then the room is limited – especially since the veggie garden is only available seasonally (from the spring through the fall).
While I really hate to watch my veggies go to seed just before it’s time for me to start tilling up soil, I’ve got to make room for other things (like flowers) during part of the summer. So if you like your veggies but don’t like sharing with them, then snapdragons are probably right up your alley.
Liquid tomato fertilizer
Now:
We’ll start from the top, with the most reviews, and then work our way down the list.
Depending on the type of tomatoes or peppers you’re growing, you’ll want to adjust the formula for the perfect ratio that’ll feed your plants.
For the best results, read the label so you don’t over-fertilize your plants with the wrong ratio.
Don’t worry. We’ll include your favorites, such as Miracle Gro and Jobes, as well as fertilizer alternatives that come as granule, liquid, and solid formulas.
Take your time and read the reviews – sometimes, you’ll get really good tips from other gardeners’ experiences.
Now, let’s get to what brought you here…
Best Fertilizer for Tomatoes and Peppers
- Burpee Organic All Purpose Granular Plant Food is formulated for long-lasting results
- The easy-to-apply granules release essential nutrients immediately and continue to provide a continuous stream of plant food for up to 3 months
- Contains nutrients, plants will produce superior results throughout the season
- Omri listed for organic use
- Since 1876: Generations of customers have trusted Burpee to deliver the highest quality products and service. Gardeners rely on Burpee for accurate plant information and how-to tips that make gardening easier and more successful. Let’s grow together!
- Package contains 4 pounds organic vegetable and tomato fertilizer grains and is produced to avoid wasteful runoff, mess, hazards and smells
- Plant fertilizer is formulated with a 2-5-3 NPK to provide vegetables and tomatoes the nutrients they need to create high yield and vibrant foliage
- Jobe's organic fertilizer contains no synthetic chemicals and are OMRI listed for organic gardening by the USDA
- Application is simple and should be done every 4-6 weeks or as needed during the growing season
- Jobe's organic fertilizer is easily measured to provide the right amount of nutrients for vegetable and tomato plants without risk of over fertilizing
- Miracle-Gro Shake 'N Feed Tomato, Fruit & Vegetable Plant Food feeds plants for up to 3 months, and nourishes above and below the soil
- This plant food contains calcium to help form stronger walls, producing better quality and longer-lasting fruits and vegetables
- For use with vegetable, fruit, and tomato plants, whether in-ground or indoor or outdoor container plants
- Apply this garden product evenly onto the soil and work into the top 1-3 inches of soil for in-ground plants, or lightly work into the soil of established container plants; water to start feeding
- Reapply Miracle-Gro Shake 'N Feed Tomato, Fruit & Vegetable Plant Food every 3 months and water regularly for a beautiful garden all season long
- FOR USE ON: Use Tomato-tone organic fertilizer for all types of tomatoes; both heirloom and hybrid. It Produces plump, abundant tomatoes, not unwanted foliage. Can also be used on all vegetables.
- CONTAINS: Tomato-tone is a rich blend of the finest natural & organic ingredients enhanced with our exclusive Bio-tone formula; 3-4-6 Fertilizer analysis with 8% calcium to help prevent blossom end rot. Tomato-tone is environmentally Safe - No sludges or toxic ingredients.
- WHEN / HOW TO USE: Best to use Tomato-tone fertilizer every two weeks through the growing season. Apply to the soil around the drip line of the plant and then water thoroughly. Tomato-tone is ready to use and requires no mixing.
- FOR ORGANIC GARDENING: Tomato-tone is approved for organic gardening; It is a registered Organic Input Material meaning it meets all requirements for organic production.
- MADE IN THE USA: Product of the Espoma Company. The leader in natural organics since 1929
- 12-15-30 Analysis - Great for vigorous plant growth from roots to green foliage, abundant flowering, and fruit set for all blooming vegetables.
- Many Ways to Feed - Tomato FeED can be used as a foliar or root feeding product. Great for spraying directly onto leaves, roots, or when used in a continuous feed system.
- Water-Soluble Powder – Powdered concentrates go further than liquid fertilizers. Simply mix your measured powder with water and you are ready to feed with multiple gallons of liquid fertilizer!
- Included Measuring Spoon – All Jack’s Classic fertilizers come with a convenient spoon to create the right amount of liquid fertilizer for your plants.
- Micronutrients - Added micronutrients supply your plant with the nutrition it needs for optimal growth and health. Unlike other fertilizers, additional feeding is not required.
- OMRI Listed - Cz Dolomite Lime is an All-Natural mineral fertilizer listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI). It may be used in certified organic production or food processing and handling according to the USDA National Organic Program regulations. (OMRI Certified 2024)
- Supplies essential nutrients calcium and magnesium, and sweetens your soil to improve plant growth and maximize fertilizer performance
- Raises and stabilizes soil pH. Perfect for Earthboxes and other container gardens!
- Natural limestone is ground into an ultra-fine powder for rapid reaction time. Prevents and Cures Blossom End Rot in Tomatoes and Peppers!
- RESEALABLE, EASY POUR PACKAGING: Cz Garden Dolomitic Lime is professionally packaged in a 10 LB Heavy Duty resealable pouch designed for long term storage. Pour the necessary quantity with ease and store the rest for future use.
- Let our professionally formulated plant food help you grow bigger, juicer and plumper tomatoes in your garden
- Specifically formulated for optimal performance throughout the life cycle on all varieties of tomatoes
- Super, super concentrated - A little goes a LONG way
- Dilute two teaspoons of product into one gallon of water and apply weekly during the whole life cycle
- Farmer's Secret brings the same scientifically backed formula development process farmers get to YOUR garden… get in on the secret!
- Boosts Organic Yields: True Liquid Tomato & Vegetable Food promotes superior harvests of fruits and vegetables with a proven nutrient-rich formula.
- Innovative Soy Protein Hydrolysate: Contains an exclusive blend of ingredients, including Soy Protein Hydrolysate, to enhance plant and soil health naturally.
- Versatile Application: Ideal for in-ground and container plants, indoors and outdoors, providing balanced nourishment for thriving gardens.
- Easy-to-Use Formula: Simply mix 2 oz. per gallon of water and apply every two weeks during the growing season for optimal growth.
- Generous Coverage: One 16 fl. oz. bottle covers approximately 30 sq. ft. and the 32 fl. oz. bottle covers 60 sq. ft., making it perfect for small to medium gardens.
- Package contains 18 tomato fertilizer spikes and are produced to avoid wasteful runoff, mess, hazards and smells
- Formulated with a 6-18-6 NPK to ensure a continuous supply of nutrients below the surface, where the plants active roots are growing
- Application is simple and should be done at the time of planting or early in the growing season
- Jobe's fertilizer spikes are pre-measured to provide the right amount of nutrients for tomatoes without risk of over fertilizing
- Jobe's fertilizer spikes come in a variety of formulas and pack sizes to help provide lush foliage and vibrant color to your lawn and garden
- Grow Crisp and Healthy Peppers: Elevate your pepper harvest with Big A Fertilizers' organic Pepper Fertilizer. This organic fertilizer is specially formulated to enhance size, flavor, and crispiness, it replenishes roots with essential nutrients, ensuring optimal development.
- Organic Proprietary Blend: Our vegetable fertilizer boasts a patent-pending organic fruit fertilizer blend, free from harsh fillers and additives. The vegetable food fertilizer is also an organic plant fertilizer, meticulously selected ingredients support normal plant growth, reflecting our commitment to organic and sustainable practices. A garden fertilizer for outdoor vegetables but more importantly, an organic vegetable fertilizer.
- Plant Food Fruit Packed with Nutrients: Experience the power of our vegetable garden fertilizer, rich in essential nutrients—nitrogen, calcium fertilizer organic, manganese, vitamins, and minerals. Natural kelp and humic acid complement this blend, fostering the vitality and richness of your peppers. Truly an organic garden fertilizer for outdoor vegetables.
- Suitable for All Types of Peppers: Specifically formulated for diverse peppers, including bell pepper, serrano, cayenne, and chili, our organic pepper fertilizer contributes to their normal development and growth. This organic fertilizer for vegetables doesn't only act as a pepper plant fertilizer but as an all round nitrogen fertilizer for vegetables. A versatile vegetable plant fertilizer solution for your entire pepper garden
- High-Solubility Formula: Our Big A gardening fertilizer comes in a highly soluble powder formula, ensuring rapid absorption by plants. Conveniently packed in a 12 oz resealable bag, it's perfect for both indoor and outdoor pepper gardens. Plus, benefit from over 50 years of expertise and reduce your carbon footprint.
Video Guide for Growing Tomatoes and Peppers
FAQ
#1. What’s the best tomato fertilizer formula? It’s recommended to use 4-18-38 together with Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt) and Calcium Nitrate for the ultimate balanced water-soluble fertilizer.
#2 What is the best tomato fertilizer ratio? According to Rabbit Hill Farms, the ideal ratio is 2-1.5-3 Total Nitrogen (N), 2% Available Phosphate (P2O5), 1.5% Soluble Potash (K2O)3%.
#3. What is the best natural fertilizer for tomatoes? You’d be surprised what tomatoes like, but to keep things simple, here is a list of 3 natural ways you can fertilize tomato plants. 1. Coffee grounds. (Acid) 2. Eggshell (Calcium). 3. Banana leaves (Potassium). For more natural ways to fertilize your plants, you can reference this guide.
#4. What is the best liquid fertilizer for tomatoes? Everyone loves Miracle Gro but there are a few liquid fertilizers listed above that are good alternatives.
#5. Is adding Epsom salt to the soil good for peppers? Yes, adding a couple of tablespoons when preparing the soil for planting is a good best practice.
#6. How often should I fertilize my plants? First, fertilize the soil when you’re planting (granules or solid). Then, fertilize again after the plant forms – about the size of a fingertip (liquid). And then fertilize again when the tomatoes or peppers begin to ripen (liquid). Finally, every 7 – 10 days until you pick them (liquid). For more information, please reference this guide.
#7. What’s the best fertilizer?
The best fertilizer for peppers and tomatoes is whatever works best for your plants.
#8. Does fertilizer burn plants?
Powdered or granular fertilizers will never burn your plant, but liquid fertilizers can if you over-apply them. So make sure your nutrients are mixed thoroughly and applied evenly on a regular basis as recommended (especially during hot and sunny days) for the best results.
#9. What is the right way to fertilize my plants?
The most important thing you can do when you’re fertilizing is don’t give them too much – especially if they are young or delicate. For a small plant, 1 tablespoon of liquid fertilizer every 7 days is plenty.
#10. When should I fertilize my plants?
For all plants, you’re better off fertilizing before 6 pm since the sun will help to break down the nutrients in the soil overnight. If you are using granular or solid fertilizers, it’s best to put them directly in the soil before planting.
#11. How much fertilizer should I use?
The basic rule of thumb is, if you fertilize 1 tablespoon per 7 days for 14 weeks, that’s usually enough. If you want to learn more about how often and how much to fertilize your plants please reference this guide.
No Magic Formula…
I wish there were a magic formula for everyone to use, but it varies depending on the climate, soil, geography, moisture, and the care your plants get.
So regardless of which fertilizer you decide to buy or use, it all comes down to taking care of your plants: water, feed, and deal with insect issues, and in no time – you’ll be harvesting enough tomatoes and peppers to make lots of salsa.
Thanks for reading… please share!
* Updated on 2025-03-24 at 20:57.
