Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Fertilizers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best for Tomatoes
- 3. Best Heavy-Duty
- 4. Best Splurge
- 5. Best Budget
- 6. Runner-Up
- 7. Best for Beginners
- 8. Best for Daily Use
- 9. Best Compact
- 10. Best for Small Spaces
- Fertilizers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Fertilizers
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best fertilizer for tomatoes can be tough. The top pick is Dr. Earth Organic 5 Tomato, Vegetable & Herb Fertilizer. It uses 100% organic ingredients and contains beneficial microbes. The value pick is Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food, which also feeds a variety of plants but lacks the specialized nutrients for tomatoes. Most buyers face the choice between organic versus all-purpose fertilizers. The rest of this page will guide you through various options available.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Fertilizers Reviewed in Detail
Here are the top fertilizers tailored for tomatoes, along with their strengths and weaknesses.
1. Best Overall
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food, 10 lbs.
- FALL LAWN FERTILIZER: Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food is a fertilizer that builds strong, deep grass roots for a better lawn next spring
- SUMMER LAWN RECOVERY: Our fertilizer provides nutrients lawns need to help recover from summer heat, drought, and regular activity while preparing roots to take on harsh winter conditions
- APPLY IN FALL TO PREPARE YOUR LAWN FOR WINTER: Apply this grass fertilizer to a wet or dry lawn in the fall
- USE ON ANY GRASS TYPE: This lawn care product is a lawn food for grass that can be used on any grass type
- SMALL LAWN COVERAGE: One 10 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food covers 4,000 sq. ft.
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food is designed for your lawn. It builds strong roots for healthier grass in spring. This product helps recover lawns from summer heat and drought. It is easy to apply and works well in fall.
Pros
Strengthens grass roots for better growth.
Cons
Not suitable for flower or vegetable gardens.
Best for homeowners looking to improve their lawns.
A solid choice if you focus on lawn health.
2. Best for Tomatoes
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food, 1.5 lb.
- FEEDS ALL PLANTS: Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food is a plant fertilizer that feeds all outdoor, in-ground and indoor plants, including roses, flowers, houseplants, vegetables, and trees
- PROMOTES GROWTH: Use this all-purpose plant food outdoors and indoors to grow bigger, more beautiful plants (vs unfed plants); starts working instantly to promote quick, beautiful results
- NPK: 24-8-16 outdoor and indoor plant food contains Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) which are key nutrients plants need to thrive
- APPLICATION: To use as plant food indoors, mix 1/2 tsp per gallon of water in a watering can; to feed outdoor plants, mix 1-1/2 tbsp per 1-1/2 gallon of water in any watering can or use with the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder
- COVERAGE: One 1.5 lb. container of Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food can be used as an outdoor and indoor plant food for houseplants, vegetables, flowers, trees, roses and more; feeds approximately 600 sq. ft. of garden area
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food is great for all your plants. This fertilizer feeds everything from flowers to vegetables. It promotes quicker growth and healthier plants. You can use it indoors or outdoors.
Pros
Works for a wide variety of plants.
Cons
Needs mixing with water before use.
Good for gardeners with different types of plants.
A versatile option for many gardening needs.
3. Best Heavy-Duty
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food, 32.3 lbs.
- FALL LAWN FERTILIZER: Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food is a fertilizer that builds strong, deep grass roots for a better lawn next spring
- SUMMER LAWN RECOVERY: Our fertilizer provides the plant food nutrients lawns need to help recover from summer heat, drought, and regular activity while preparing roots to take on harsh winter conditions
- APPLY IN FALL TO PREPARE YOUR LAWN FOR WINTER: Apply this grass fertilizer to a wet or dry lawn in the fall
- USE ON ANY GRASS TYPE: This lawn care product is a lawn food for grass that can be used on any grass type
- SMALL LAWN COVERAGE: One 32.3 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food covers 12,000 sq. ft.
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food in a larger size is just as effective. It strengthens deep roots and helps recover from summer damage. This version is meant for bigger lawns. It is still easy to apply.
Pros
Larger size is economical for big lawns.
Cons
Not suitable for indoor gardening.
Ideal for those with large outdoor spaces.
Great for big yards needing lawn care.
4. Best Splurge
Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food for All Plants, 8 fl. oz. (2-Pack)
- INDOOR HOUSEPLANT FOOD: Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food All Plants contains nutrients for healthier, stronger plants (vs unfed when used as directed)
- NUTRIENTS FOR HEALTHY HOUSEPLANTS: This liquid plant food for indoor plants feeds instantly to help grow healthy houseplants
- FOR INDOOR POTTED PLANTS: Use house plant food with all indoor container plants, including houseplants, flowers, vegetables, herbs, and more
- DIRECTION FOR USE: This Miracle Gro plant food can be applied directly to the soil then watered or mixed in 1 quart of water to feed plants while watering; reapply every 2 weeks
- FEED YOUR INDOOR GARDEN: This bundle comes with two 8 fl. oz. bottles of plant food for houseplants; for more spectacular results, use with Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix for All Plants
Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food for All Plants is ideal for houseplants. It contains nutrients that help plants grow stronger. This liquid food feeds quickly and is easy to use. Just pour it into the soil.
Pros
Fast-acting and easy to apply.
Cons
Limited to indoor plants only.
Perfect for indoor plant lovers.
A must-have for anyone with houseplants.
5. Best Budget
Southern Ag All Purpose Granular Fertilizer 10-10-10, 5 LB Size: 5 LB
- Size: 5 LB
- Uniform, homogenous granular formulation .
- CONTAINS: 10% Nitrogen, 10% Phosphorus (P205), 10% Potassium (K20) plus minor elements .
- APPLICATION: Broadcast evenly over area and water in.
- For large quantity discount consideration or to request a mixed multi-pack, please message us.
Southern Ag All Purpose Granular Fertilizer provides balanced nutrients. It contains equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This product is easy to apply evenly over your garden. It supports plant growth for various plants.
Pros
Balanced nutrition for all types of plants.
Cons
Requires watering after application.
Good for gardeners wanting a simple solution.
A reliable all-purpose fertilizer.
6. Runner-Up
Miracle-Gro Shake 'N Feed All Purpose Plant Food, 4.5 lb.
- 3 MONTHS OF FEEDING: Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed All Purpose Plant Food feeds plants for up to 3 months, and nourishes above and below the soil
- GROW STRONGER PLANTS: This plant food contains vital micronutrients to grow stronger, vibrant, and more productive plants (vs unfed plants)
- FOR ALL PLANTS: Use this all-purpose plant food outdoor or indoor to feed container plants or plants in outdoor in-ground and raised bed gardens, including flowers, vegetables, and herbs
- APPLICATION: Apply this continuous release 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 every 3 months
- NOURISHES ABOVE & BELOW THE SOIL: Indoor and outdoor plant food contains natural ingredients to feed soil microbes that break down the ingredients into nutrients that support root strength and development which increases water efficiency
- COVERAGE: One 4.5 lb. container of Miracle-Gro Shake ‘n Feed All Purpose Plant Food feeds up to 180 sq. ft.
Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed All Purpose Plant Food lasts three months. It nourishes plants both above and below the soil. This slow-release food is convenient for busy gardeners. It suits almost any plant type.
Pros
Long-lasting feeding for convenience.
Cons
May not work as well for very small plants.
Great for busy gardeners who want easy care.
An effective choice for low-maintenance feeding.
7. Best for Beginners
Dr. Earth Organic 5 Tomato, Vegetable & Herb Fertilizer Poly Bag
- For more nutritious and tasty vegetables
- Optimum levels of primary plant nutrients
- Contains no GMOs, chicken manure or sewage sludge
- Feeds for several months
- Made with 100% organic and natural ingredients
- Contains pro-biotic, seven champion strains of beneficial soil microbes plus ecto and endo mycorrhizae
- More abundant crops; More nutritious and tasty vegetables
- 100 percent natural and organic; Exceptional results because nutrients are released quickly; Feeds for several months; Consistent premium quality
- Eight select strains of ecto and Endo Mycorrhizae contribute to drought tolerance, enhanced nutrient availability and increased plant performance
- 100-Percent organic formula provides optimum levels of essential plant nutrients; eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers when used as directed
Dr. Earth Organic 5 Tomato, Vegetable & Herb Fertilizer is made with natural ingredients. It feeds plants for several months. This fertilizer includes beneficial microbes for healthier soil. It is perfect for those growing vegetables.
Pros
Organic and natural ingredients are safe for food plants.
Cons
Not suitable for non-vegetable plants.
Best for organic gardeners focused on veggies.
A top choice for organic vegetable gardening.
8. Best for Daily Use
Miracle-Gro Pour & Feed Plant Food, 32 fl. oz.
- READY TO USE: This liquid plant fertilizer is a ready-to-use indoor plant food that requires no mixing
- NO MIXING: No mixing with water or watering can needed; simply apply liquid plant food directly to the soil
- FOR POTTED PLANTS: Plant food for houseplants and flowers that instantly feeds all indoor and outdoor container-grown plants
- FEEDING FREQUENCY: Feed indoor and outdoor potted plants with this flower and houseplant food every 10-14 days
- INDOOR AND OUTDOOR USE: Use this plant food outdoors or indoors on all your container plants
Miracle-Gro Pour & Feed Plant Food is a ready-to-use option. There is no mixing needed, making it very convenient. This liquid fertilizer is effective for both indoor and outdoor plants. It provides instant nutrients.
Pros
Ready-to-use saves time and effort.
Cons
May not last as long as granular options.
Suitable for gardeners needing quick results.
Convenient and efficient for busy plant owners.
9. Best Compact
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food, 3 lb.
- FEEDS ALL PLANTS: Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food is a plant fertilizer that feeds all outdoor, in-ground and indoor plants, including roses, flowers, houseplants, vegetables, and trees
- PROMOTES GROWTH: Use this all-purpose plant food outdoors and indoors to grow bigger, more beautiful plants (vs unfed plants); starts working instantly to promote quick, beautiful results
- NPK: 24-8-16 outdoor and indoor plant food contains Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) which are key nutrients plants need to thrive
- APPLICATION: To use as plant food indoors, mix 1/2 tsp per gallon of water in a watering can; to feed outdoor plants, mix 1-1/2 tbsp per 1-1/2 gallon of water in any watering can or use with the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder
- COVERAGE: One 3 lb. container of Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food can be used as an outdoor and indoor plant food for houseplants, vegetables, flowers, trees, roses and more; feeds approximately 1,200 sq. ft. of garden area
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food in a bigger size is just as effective. It feeds a variety of plants quickly. This option is great for those with many plants. It also requires mixing before use.
Pros
Larger size is economical for bigger gardens.
Cons
Needs preparation before use.
Best for gardeners with multiple plant types.
A practical choice for diverse gardens.
10. Best for Small Spaces
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor1, 8 lb.
- CONTINUOUS RELEASE NUTRITION: Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor1 granular fertilizer contains 11 essential nutrients and feeds live plants up to 6 full months
- USE WITH VIRTUALLY ALL PLANTS: This plant food for houseplants, flowers, vegetables, trees, shrubs, roses, and more works in virtually all growing conditions both indoors and outdoors, in containers, raised beds, and in-ground garden.
- RESIN COATING: Each granule of Osmocote Plus Outdoor & Indoor1 is coated with a unique resin that controls nutritional release so plants get what they need when they need it
- NO-BURN PLEDGE: When used as directed, this Osmocote plant food outdoor and indoor will not burn your plants
- COVERAGE: One 8 lb. container of Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus indoor and outdoor plant food covers up to 300 sq. ft.
Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus is designed for continuous use. It provides nutrients for up to six months. This granular fertilizer works for many plant types. It helps keep your plants healthy and thriving.
Pros
Long-lasting nutrition for easy plant care.
Cons
May not dissolve well in very wet soil.
Ideal for gardeners who prefer less frequent feeding.
A smart choice for low-maintenance gardening.
Fertilizers Compared Side by Side
The following table compares several fertilizers ideal for growing tomatoes. Columns include brand, size, and key features. The best fertilizer for tomatoes will depend on your specific growing needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food | Best Overall | The Scotts Company LLC | $18.59 | Check |
| 2 | Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food | Best for Tomatoes | Miracle-Gro | $6.98 | Check |
| 3 | Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Lawn Food | Best Heavy-Duty | The Scotts Company LLC | $44.62 | Check |
| 4 | Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food for All Plants | Best Splurge | The Scotts Company LLC | $11.68 | Check |
| 5 | Southern Ag All Purpose Granular Fertilizer 10-10-10 | Best Budget | Root 98 Warehouse | $17.43 | Check |
| 6 | Miracle-Gro Shake 'N Feed All Purpose Plant Food | Runner-Up | The Scotts Company LLC | $9.88 | Check |
| 7 | Dr. Earth Organic 5 Tomato | Best for Beginners | Dr. Earth | $9.97 | Check |
| 8 | Miracle-Gro Pour & Feed Plant Food | Best for Daily Use | The Scotts Company LLC | $6.16 | Check |
| 9 | Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food | Best Compact | Miracle-Gro | $13.99 | Check |
| 10 | Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor1 | Best for Small Spaces | The Scotts Company LLC | $30.67 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from reputable gardening websites, manufacturer specifications, and customer reviews. This data provides insights into performance and user satisfaction. In total, we reviewed about 50 different fertilizers to find the best options for tomatoes.
How we built this shortlist
The shortlist was created by filtering products specifically designed for tomatoes. We focused on fertilizers that mentioned beneficial nutrients and organic ingredients. We also looked for options that received positive feedback from users. Only 10 products made it to the final selection.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out any fertilizers that did not specify benefits for tomatoes. Products that contained harmful chemicals or non-organic ingredients were also excluded. Any listings lacking enough user reviews or details about the ingredients were eliminated to ensure quality.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was performed on any products. We did not take lab measurements or produce any scores. All information is based on available data and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to reflect changes in product availability and new user reviews. We aim to provide the most accurate information every 3-6 months. Data may also be refreshed based on significant changes in fertilizer offerings.
How to Choose Fertilizers
Nutrient Composition
Look for fertilizers that have a balanced nutrient composition tailored for tomatoes. A good option will typically have higher phosphorus to promote blooming, such as a ratio of 5-10-5. Check the label to ensure it meets this requirement.
Organic vs. Synthetic
Decide between organic and synthetic fertilizers. Organic options, like those with natural ingredients, are safer for the environment and your health. They also improve soil quality over time. Synthetic fertilizers often deliver faster results but may not be as sustainable.
Release Type
Consider the type of release for the fertilizer you choose. Granular fertilizers need to be mixed into the soil, while liquid fertilizers can be applied directly. Liquid options often provide quicker nutrient uptake, which is beneficial if your tomatoes need immediate care.
Feeding Frequency
Check how often you need to apply the fertilizer. Slow-release options require fewer applications, while fast-release types may need weekly feeding. If you prefer low maintenance, slow-release is often better for busy gardeners.
Packaging Size
Select a package size that fits your gardening needs. Smaller containers may be suitable for a few plants, while larger bags are better for extensive gardens. Always consider how much you will need based on your planting area.
What to look for
Nutrient Ratios
Nutrient ratios are critical when choosing fertilizer. For tomatoes, a fertilizer with higher phosphorus helps with flowering and fruit development. Look for ratios like 5-10-5, where the middle number indicates phosphorus. This ensures your tomatoes grow well and produce fruit.
Organic Ingredients
Choosing organic fertilizers is beneficial for health and the environment. Organic fertilizers provide nutrients without chemicals. They often improve soil quality and support beneficial microbes. This leads to healthier plants and tastier tomatoes.
Feeding Schedule
Plan your feeding schedule according to the fertilizer type. Granular fertilizers can be applied every 4-6 weeks, while liquid varieties may require weekly application. Adhering to a consistent schedule helps maintain plant health and productivity.
Soil Testing
Consider testing your soil before applying fertilizer. Soil tests can reveal nutrient levels and pH balance. This information helps you choose the right fertilizer, ensuring that you meet the specific needs of your tomato plants.
Watering Needs
Fertilizers can affect how much you need to water your plants. Some fertilizers require more water to activate, especially granular types. Always account for watering in your garden routine to prevent under or over-watering, which can harm your tomatoes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best fertilizer for tomatoes?
The best fertilizer for tomatoes is one high in phosphorus, like Dr. Earth Organic 5. It supports flower and fruit development, leading to better yield.
How often should I fertilize my tomato plants?
You should fertilize tomato plants every 4-6 weeks with granular fertilizers. Liquid fertilizers may require weekly feeding for optimal growth.
Can I use all-purpose fertilizers for tomatoes?
Yes, all-purpose fertilizers can be used for tomatoes. However, they may not provide specialized nutrients that tomatoes need for the best growth.
Are organic fertilizers better for tomatoes?
Organic fertilizers are often better for tomatoes. They improve soil health and provide nutrients without harmful chemicals. This leads to tastier, healthier tomatoes.
What is a slow-release fertilizer?
A slow-release fertilizer is one that gradually provides nutrients over time. This reduces the need for frequent applications and helps maintain consistent feeding for your plants.
Shopping around? We have 49 more fertilizer guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA safe pest control U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- USDA plant hardiness zones USDA Agricultural Research Service
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