Are Mesquite Shavings Bad for Tomato Plants?

Fertilization

• Certain plants, such as tomatoes, are known as "heavy feeders." As they grow, they draw large quantities of nutrients from the surrounding soil; consequently, they perform poorly in sandy, rocky or infertile soils. Organic mulches, such as mesquite shavings, decompose slowly, improving the soil structure and nutrient content in the process.

Water Retention

• Tomatoes are tropical in nature. As such, they thrive in humid conditions and they do not respond well to extended periods of dry weather. Spreading a thick layer of wood shavings around the base of the plant decelerates the rate of evaporation and keeps the soil from drying out.

Insulation

• During periods of cool weather, tomatoes must be protected from frost. A blanket of mesquite shavings keeps the soil warm, reducing the impact of inclement weather and protecting the fragile roots from the damaging effects of the cold. Additionally, mulch diminishes the impact of seasonal rainstorms, preventing valuable top soil from washing away.

Carbon Content

• A generous layer of wood chips can resolve a multitude of garden issues; however, mesquite shavings are naturally high in carbon. A carbon-rich environment encourages the uptake of nitrogen by soil-dwelling microorganisms, reducing the amount of nitrogen in the soil and increasing the possibility of a nutrient imbalance. To remedy this situation, incorporate high-nitrogen organic materials, such as blood meal, fishmeal or chicken manure, into the soil at planting time.