How to Water Tomatoes With Epsom Salts

Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) applied to soil naturally lacking magnesium alleviates the yellowing leaf symptoms in a variety of crops, including tomatoes, according to Linda Chalker-Scott, Ph.D. at Washington State University. If your garden soil, based on a soil test, reveals a deficiency in magnesium, apply a solution of Epsom salt. Do not over-fertilize with it though, as an over-abundance of magnesium ions prevents uptake of other nutrients, like iron or manganese according to the authors of "Your Florida Landscape." Water-soluble Epsom salts readily leach through soil that is frequently irrigated.

Things You'll Need

Gallon-sized container
Measuring teaspoon

Stirring stick (or spoon)

Instructions

- 1
  Fill a container, such as a gauged sprinkling can or bucket, with one gallon of water.
- 2
  Add 1 tsp. of Epsom salts to the water and mix it well. Placing the Epsom salt crystals in the empty container and then pouring in water is one way to agitate and evenly mix the solution. Or, use a stirring stick or long-handled spoon.
- 3
  Pour the Epsom salt solution evenly around the root zone of the tomato plant, which extends 2 to 4 feet from the main plant stem base. Mix additional solution, always at a rate of 1 tsp. per gallon, as needed to wet the garden soil around the tomato plant.
- 4
  Repeat the application of Epsom salt solution and apply to the tomato plants' root zones every 4 to 6 weeks. Tomatoes grown in containers and hanging baskets need applications every 10 to 21 days because they leach nutrients quickly from frequent watering.

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