How to Increase Brix in Tomatoes

Experienced gardeners know that with high Brix levels comes great tomato flavor. Coined by Dr. Carey Reams, Brix is a measurement of a plant's carbohydrate levels. Immense Brix calculations can spell better mineral density, insect and disease resistance, and more succulent flavor. Heightening Brix levels involves an improvement of the soil and more sophisticated feeding methods. Properly watered gardens are also likely to have impressive Brix measures. Gardeners who practice vigilant weeding habits can encourage even more Brix.

Instructions

- 1
  Test the mineral content and balance of your tomatoes' soil; High Brix Home offers a quality test. Abundant amounts of phosphates and calcium are critical to great brix scores. To prepare a plot for tomatoes, mix 6 cups of lime, 5 cups of soft rock phosphate, and 3 cups of gypsum. To this add 3 cups of Biosol Mix and 1 cup of Planters II trace minerals, available from T&J Enterprises. Incorporate this mixture into the first 2 cubic feet of the tomatoes' soil before adding the plants.
- 2
  Ensure that humus levels in the soil are high. Expert gardeners consider humus to be the lifeblood of a great plot, allowing plants to produce fruitfully. Either compost regularly, or purchase ample compost and add it to your gardening plot every few weeks.
- 3
  Present your plants with the nutrients they need through foliar feeding. This feeding style primes tomato plants to produce well and amply. Use a seaweed-based feed for new tomato seedlings, or a product with humic or fulvic acid for plants with poor, nutrient-deficient soil. Spray the foliar feed no more than twice weekly. Avoid wetting fruit or flowers; rather concentrate on the leaves. Mist the plants lightly, and do not leave the tomatoes drenched.

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