Forgot to mention these raised beds set directly on the ground, so the roots can still grow downward into native soil.
Tammy

Many things can reduce production. Over-watering, lack of nutrients in the soil, pH and type of soil, how well or how poorly it drains, sun exposure, etc.

You don't mention what and how often you feed your plants or what your watering regimen is and both are important details. Also have you have the soil tested? If the soil pH is way out of line then no matter how much nutrients are in the soil they are locked up and the plant can't use them.

"Scraggly plants" is often too little sun exposure, manure is only a good source of nutrients IF there is sufficient soil bacteria to decompose it and even then it doesn't last all season so supplemental feedings are necessary. Over-watering suffocates roots and stunts growth, so does poorly draining soil or compacted soil. Over-watering is one of the most common problems those new to gardening have so it is a good place to start when it comes to identifying problems.

And 6" is very shallow for tomato plants unless the soil below was also well tilled so that it isn't compacted.

All points to consider.

Dave

1.I didnt provide extra fertilization.Other than 1 extra bag of fertilized garden soil to each bed in the beginning.
2. garden is away from the house, and a little inconvenient for a hose (but sounds as if I need to make the effort next time)The soil also drains very well. maybe a little too well.
3.Never tested the ph, I dont know I have to add miracid to my rhododendrons etc about once a yr so they look good. I dont know how much this test would cost. My father in law used to have a real nice garden just across the road from us, I dont remember any amendments.
4.The soil under the raised beds was tilled and loosened about 6" down, so after the other stuff settling, I prob have about 8" loosened soil.

So knowing this, what would you recommend for next yr?
Thanks a lot
Tammy

Tammy - Dave is the expert but my thinking when I fist read your post was fertilizer. The amount that comes in packaged garden soil is not nearly enough. Toms tend to be big feeders, especially when they are fruiting. I would encourage you to work Tomato Tone or any good fert into the soil at planting and supplement thru the season. Miracle grow makes a water soluble powder availalbe at big box stores but there is organic stuff too like Grow Big by, I think Fox Farms and others at nurserys. Linda

Thanks a lot Linda, I am taking notes to try and remember to do next yr.
Tammy

I would agree then that lack of nutrients is the primary problem but would still recommend a soil test to check the pH. They are available from your local county AG extension office for $10-15.

As I mentioned manure, while good for the soil and does provide a small amount of nutrients, isn't enough. And the nutrients in the potting mix are minimal and quickly used up despite what the manufacturer claims.

Tomatoes require regular feedings throughout the growing season - approximately 4-6 weeks apart. What fertilizer you use is your choice. I agree that Tomato Tone is good but so are many others. Organic brands are great IF your soil has been well amended first with lots of compost to boost the soil bacterial levels but an intermittent dose of a non-organic can also be of great help.

Many will amend the planting holes well at planting time, feed again just after first fruit set, and then feed again monthly after that. Others prefer to feed a diluted 1/2 strength dose weekly when the water. Either works but the point is to do it regularly.

Dave