I always have a hard time growing any tomatoes other than cherry tomatoes. If it's not disease or brown spot that attacks them, it's giant creatures that lurk amongst the leaves. (See my post "The Beast In My Garden") One trick I have come across to help with some tomato ailments is to use aspirin to assist in maintaining their health. The main benefit of aspirin in planting involves aspirin's ability to fend off potential plant diseases. The salicylic acid found in the aspirin is the ingredient that helps ward off the afflictions.
Here's how to use it:
Purchase regular strength aspirin. The brand doesn't matter; purchase the cheapest brand that is available and make sure it is the uncoated type.
Mix together one aspirin with one gallon of water. Combine the ingredients well, so that the aspirin is distributed evenly throughout the liquid.
Add a dash of mild liquid soap to the mixture. This is used as a way to help the aspirin water stick better to the tomato plants. Once the soap is added, attach a spray nozzle to the gallon jug and it is ready to use. (Or put in a smaller spray bottle)
Spray the tomatoes when you first set them in the ground. This is going to help germinate the plants and stimulate the growing process. There is no need to soak the area. A light and gentle spray is perfect.
Continue to spray the aspirin mixture on the tomato plants every 2 to 3 weeks. You will notice that the plants stay healthier and attract fewer insects.
3 comments:
Before you put tomato plants into soil, add several tablespoons of Epsom salt to the hole to add magnesium;after planting,sprinkle powdered eggshells around the base to add calcium;and finally, mulch the growing plants with grass clippings or straw to encourage deep root growth.These additions will also help to deter garden pests,as well.
This sounds like great advice. Perhaps now I'll give growing tomatoes another shot. Thanks for sharing!
I have never heard of this. Excellent tip.
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