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Dig Planting Holes: Create planting holes approximately 12 inches apart. The holes should be a bit deeper than usual to allow for planting a portion of the stem underground.
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Transplant the Seedlings: Carefully remove tomato seedlings from their trays. When planting, bury about half of the seedling’s stem in the soil. Tomatoes naturally produce roots along their stems, so this technique helps the plant form a stronger, more expansive root system.
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Water with Diluted Liquid Fertilizer: Return to the liquid fertilizer you made earlier. Before applying it, dilute it by mixing one part fertilizer with five parts water. Pour this solution at the base of each seedling after planting. The nitrogen-rich liquid provides the young plants with a powerful start, encouraging healthy growth and early development.
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Benefits of This Planting Method
By combining soil conditioning with a tailored planting method and homemade fertilizer, this approach delivers several key benefits:
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Enhanced Soil Structure: The chopped leaves and manure improve soil aeration and water retention.
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Natural Pest Control: Neem cake deters pests and suppresses diseases without harmful chemicals.
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Slow-Release Fertility: Manure and compost provide a steady supply of nutrients throughout the season.
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Stronger Root Systems: Deep planting helps anchor the plants and increases nutrient absorption.
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Boosted Early Growth: The fermented liquid fertilizer provides a rich source of bioavailable nutrients that support strong, fast growth.
This method can also be adapted for peppers and other fruiting plants, making it a versatile addition to any organic gardener’s toolkit. With thoughtful planning and organic inputs, your tomato plants will be well on their way to producing a healthy and abundant harvest.
