How to apply soybean meal to tomato plants?

Nitrogen is essential to tomato plants for proper vine growth. If the tomatoes do not have enough nitrogen, they will be yellow and stunted. Too much nitrogen, however, can result in reduced fruit production. Soybean meal (7-2-1) is a good organic plant-based source of nitrogen. It decomposes in the soil, slowly releasing nitrogen, and does not harm the roots of the plants. Applying the soybean meal at the right times will ensure your tomatoes get plenty of nitrogen for growth without slowing the production of fruit.

1. Have the soil tested to determine nitrogen levels. If there are already sufficient levels of nitrogen in your soil, it will not be necessary to add more. Excess nitrogen will reduce the amount of tomatoes produced by the plant.
2. Amend soil with soybean meal right before planting the tomatoes. Mix the meal into the soil at a rate of eight pounds per 100 square feet, using a tiller or a shovel.
3. Re-apply the meal after the tomatoes begin forming on the vines. A re-application is necessary as the soybean meal releases into the soil for one to four months, depending on environmental conditions. Heat and moisture hasten the release time. Sprinkle the meal on the soil around the plant. Add roughly one pound of soybean meal for each plant.

Things you will need:

1. Soybean meal
2. Shovel
3. Scoop