Is Miracle-Gro Good for Plants?

Vegetable plants require a proper balance of nutrients to grow and produce abundant blooms and fruit. Miracle-Gro fertilizer for tomatoes and vegetables provides a complete formula---one that contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. The percentages of each element are represented in a series of three numbers on the label. Incomplete formulas contain one or two of the essential nutrients.

Types

• The Scott Miracle-Gro Co. produces several formulas designed to meet the needs of growing plants. The water-soluble formula labeled for tomatoes and other vegetables provides a nearly balanced blend---18-18-21---ideal for garden vegetables grown in healthy garden loam. Ohio State University Extension Office recommends Miracle Gro all-purpose plant food, a 15-30-15 formula, for container-grown vegetables.

Function

• When granulated Miracle-Gro is mixed with water, it creates a foliar feeder that can be applied to the foliage. Leaves absorb the nutrients quickly and results are evident within a few days.

Amount

• For applications using a watering can, the manufacturer recommends a solution of 1 tbsp. of Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Tomato Plant Food granules with 1 gallon of water. Provide newly transplanted vegetables 1 cup of the solution at each feeding. Gradually increase the amount as the plant matures. Mature plants require 1 gallon of the solution per feeding.

Time Frame

• Apply Miracle-Gro to vegetables once every seven to 14 days throughout the growing season to provide nutrients no longer available in the soil.