Gardening expert Monty Don has shared his tried-and-tested natural fertiliser recipe for growing plump, juicy tomatoes – and it’s easier to make than you might think. Forget expensive shop-bought solutions; this eco-friendly alternative uses everyday household items to give your plants the nutrients they crave.
Why Go Natural?
Chemical fertilisers can harm soil health over time, but Monty’s homemade solution enriches the earth while promoting sustainable gardening. "Tomatoes thrive on a balanced diet, just like us," he explains. "This natural feed provides everything they need without synthetic additives."
The Simple Recipe
You’ll need just three key ingredients:
- Comfrey leaves – packed with potassium for fruit development
- Nettles – rich in nitrogen for leafy growth
- Water – to create a nutrient-rich "tea"
Step-by-Step Guide
- Harvest fresh comfrey and nettle leaves (wear gloves!)
- Chop roughly and pack into a bucket
- Cover with water and weigh down with a brick
- Leave to steep for 4-6 weeks, stirring occasionally
- Dilute the concentrated liquid (10:1 ratio with water)
- Apply to tomato plants every 2 weeks during growing season
Monty’s Top Tips
The Gardeners’ World star recommends:
- Start feeding when first fruits appear
- Always dilute – concentrated fertiliser can burn roots
- Use rainwater for an even more eco-friendly approach
- Store excess in sealed containers (it gets pungent!)
This natural approach not only produces tastier tomatoes but creates a healthier garden ecosystem. As Monty says: "Working with nature always yields the sweetest results."
