May 4, 2025 – Now that your tomato plants are up and growing, a mixture of yeast, sugar, baking soda and water can further improve the fruit. Start with a mixture of yeast which can be found in most grocery stores. Add some sugar to act as a food source for the yeast, and warm water to activate it. Additionally, a small amount of baking soda helps balance the soil pH. These ingredients encourage your tomato plants to thrive.
Dissolve one packet of dry yeast in a cup or glass of warm water. Next, add a tablespoon of sugar and stir until dissolved. Let sit for about 10 minutes to allow the yeast to activate and become frothy. Then, add a teaspoon of baking soda and stir well. Once the ingredients are combined, dilute the mixture with a gallon of water, ensuring it’s well mixed. This is your yeast stimulant.
For the best results, add the mixture to the base of your tomato plants early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid daytime heat. Water each plant thoroughly to ensure the mixture reaches the root zone where it can be most effective, BUT don’t over water!. Apply every two weeks during the growing season. Be sure to water your plants as usual between applications to maintain consistent moisture content.
The science behind all this lies in the mixture’s ability to improve soil microbiology. Yeast helps microorganism growth which, in turn, helps decompose organic matter, releasing nutrients needed for plant growth. The sugar provides immediate energy for microbes, while the baking soda helps maintain a favorable soil pH. The mixture creates conditions for tomato plants to absorb nutrients efficiently with the end result being healthier and more productive plants.
Most importantly, don’t let this mixture replace other practices needed for growing tomatoes.
