Question
I planted several varieties of tomatoes 3 months ago, mostly Early Girl. Here's my problem: the plants have grown to enormous heights(over 6')with very long, lush sideways growth as well, but not many flowers and the fruit is growing very slowly. These plants look much taller, wider and less dense than all the other home garden tomato plants I've seen.
My soil tested normal pH but very low in all nutrients. I have fertilized with 20/20/20 once a month for 2 months. This seemed to speed up the growth even more.
What did I do wrong? How can I remedy this?

Answer
When growing tomatoes or other fruit-bearing vegetables, the proper ratio of fertilizer is 5-20-20. Nitrogen, represented by the first number, promotes lush foliage at the expense of blooms. Phosphorus, the second number, produces blooms and large fruit; while the third number, potassium, is needed for a strong root system.

I would either purchase a phosphorus-based fertilizer or just completely stop using fertilizer at this point. Eventually, the plants will produce, but your harvest will definitely be reduced due to their slow start. This fall and next spring, be sure to amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, manure, and peat. This will reduce the need to fertilize.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Good luck and best regards,

Mike