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Milk represents a natural remedy with surprising benefits for the growth of tomato plants. Let’s discover the secrets of this precious green ally together.
Why use milk in tomato crops?
If you are passionate about organic gardening, you will discover that milk is a real natural ally. Not only is it beneficial for mammals, but tomato plants also benefit greatly from it.
Milk is rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals essential for plant growth and the development of juicy fruits.
Nutritional benefits of milk for plants
Milk provides an important source of soccer to tomato plants, which is essential to avoid stunted growth and lack of fruit development.
Unlike traditional egg shells, milk is absorbed more quickly.
- Prevents the blossom end rot of tomato plants.
- Check for issues like powdery mildew e downy mildew thanks to the combination of lactose and sunlight.
- It acts like a natural pesticide against aphids, mites and thysanoptera, which cannot metabolize the natural acid present in milk.
How to apply milk in the garden
Think of milk as a concentrated fertilizer. It is essential to dilute it in water at a ratio of 1:10 to ensure that it is absorbed effectively by the roots of the plants.
One liter of milk is enough to prepare a natural watering solution to distribute to your plants.
If you make cheese at home, you can use the whey instead of milk. Just make sure it doesn’t contain salt.
When and how to use milk as fertilizer
The ideal time to apply milk is early in the growing season and mid-season to further stimulate production. It is preferable to do this early in the morning, so that it does not evaporate before being absorbed by the roots. Water around the base of tomato plants to ensure their health.
Use of milk against plant diseases
Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, milk can prevent and stop the growth of fungal and bacterial infections. Lactose acts as a natural fungicide, protecting the plant from various diseases.
To treat tomato plants, dilute the milk with water in a 1:1 ratio. Use a spray bottle to apply the mixture to the leaves.
After about 30 minutes, remove excess milk with a damp cloth to prevent fungal infections.
Precautions when using milk
Using milk in the garden can have some drawbacks. The acidic nature of milk can harm plants, and excess moisture can attract harmful pests.
Overuse can also form a film around the roots, decreasing soil aeration. Therefore, apply it sparingly to avoid unpleasant odors and damage.
