Just answering cause no one did yet, again... I know some people here have the expertise, but if no one answers soon, try the "container gardening" http://forums2.gardenweb.com/forums/contain/ forum.

Heh, just looked on that forum... you did not need my link, sorry :P

Like they say..........its the thought that counts...cool!

Linked a great article for you on Micronutrients below but to simplify, micro-nutrients include things like boron, iron, copper, zinc, etc. (basically minerals) that are necessary for plant health and growth but are needed in much smaller amounts than the standard big 3 N-P-K.

In garden dirt they exist naturally although some may not be available to the plants if the soil pH is also out of whack. In containers it is another matter since we don't use mineral-rich dirt in containers.

Increasingly many of the better fertilizers are including at least some of them them in their mixes so some of the brands you have may already contain them. Check the label. If not, there are numerous products available to supply them, both organic and synthetic.

You might also want to bookmark this site for future reference: Mineral Deficiency in Tomato Plants (Photos)

I hope this helps answer your question.

Dave

Here is a link that might be useful: Micronutrients

thanks again

A quick summary of what you'll find in the Container Gradening forum. I use Al/tapla's method which works wonders! :) Dyna Gro Foliage Pro 9-3-6 (or any other 3-1-2 ratio) which has essential micronutrients. Then, when flowering begins, supplement with Dyna Gro Pro-TeKt 0-0-3.

I make up my own potting mix: 1/3 equal amounts of very silty dirt, compost and aged horse manure. It holds moisture well but will drain if it rains too much. It does not compact, even after a summer of sitting in baking sunlight and growing large plants. I also mix in Tomato-tone - it contains most micronuits including a decent amount of Calcium and microbes, as well as some Blood Meal - very high nitrogen. Side dress with Bone Meal which helps promote flowering and water every other week with compost tea.

Mike