You can provide calcium to your tomato plants by adding crumbled eggshells to your compost or burying them in your garden, and by using a calcium-containing fertilizer.
Here's a breakdown of methods to increase calcium availability for your tomato plants:
Methods to Boost Calcium for Tomatoes
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Eggshells:
- How they work: Eggshells are primarily composed of calcium carbonate. As they break down, they release calcium into the soil.
- Preparation: Crush eggshells into small pieces. Smaller pieces decompose faster.
- Application: You can add the crushed eggshells to your compost pile or directly into the soil where you'll be planting your tomatoes. For direct application, bury them a few inches deep.
- Important Note: Eggshells alone may not provide enough calcium quickly enough to prevent blossom end rot, especially in calcium-deficient soils. They are a good supplement but shouldn't be the only method used.
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Calcium-Containing Fertilizers:
- How they work: These fertilizers provide readily available calcium that plants can absorb.
- Examples:
- Miracle-Gro® Shake 'n Feed® Tomato, Fruit & Vegetable Plant Food (as mentioned in the provided information) is an option.
- Other fertilizers specifically formulated for tomatoes often contain calcium. Look for the calcium (Ca) percentage on the fertilizer label.
- Calcium nitrate is another option for providing calcium and nitrogen.
- Application: Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package. It is critical not to over-fertilize, as this can cause other nutrient imbalances.
- Timing: Using a calcium-containing fertilizer at planting time is beneficial. Supplemental applications may be needed if blossom end rot appears.
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Lime:
- How it works: Agricultural lime (calcitic or dolomitic) not only provides calcium but also helps to raise the soil pH. Tomatoes prefer a slightly acidic soil pH (6.0-6.8).
- Important Note: Get a soil test before adding lime! If your soil is already alkaline (pH above 7.0), adding lime can worsen the problem and reduce the availability of other nutrients.
- Application: If a soil test indicates a need for lime, follow the recommendations for the amount to apply.
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Gypsum:
- How it works: Gypsum (calcium sulfate) provides calcium without significantly affecting soil pH. This is useful if your soil already has a suitable pH level but is calcium deficient.
- Application: Incorporate gypsum into the soil before planting or side-dress established plants. Follow package instructions for application rates.
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Foliar Sprays:
- How they work: Calcium chloride or calcium chelate sprays can be applied directly to the foliage to provide a quick boost of calcium to the plant.
- Use: Best used as a rescue treatment for blossom end rot.
- Application: Follow the product instructions carefully to avoid burning the foliage. Apply in the early morning or late evening to minimize the risk of damage.
It's also important to water your tomato plants consistently, as drought stress can hinder calcium uptake even when it's present in the soil. Consistent watering prevents large fluctuations in soil moisture, aiding nutrient uptake.
