Hi Rainbowgardener,
Please realize that I'm not trying to convince anyone to do as I do. I only mentioned my methods as the OP sounded very discouraged and I just thought I would pass on what works for me. I did suggest that the OP might not be interested. I am aware, that on these type of forums, my methods aren't popular.
By the way, I stay away from all other chemicals, including fungicides and insectides. This did me in a bit this year, as two of my plants seem to be suffering from some kind of blight. I did buy a fungicide (a Daconil type) but after reading the label, I never got the courage to use it. When two of my plants have problems, it's a big deal for me, as I usually only plant three. Luckily, this year, I planted five.
You mentioned the matter of the small space a compost bin takes up. Unfortunately, I don't even have a "real" garden. I invaded a flower bed to plant my first three tomato plants (as I'm sure you know, you can't crowd tomato plants) and I actually took over a portion of a second flower bed to plant the extra two. So the compost bin would have to go into a flower bed, which would reduce my planting area even more.
I consider myself lucky that my husband puts up with my chickens, which are housed in a more shaded area that wouldn't be good for gardening, anyway. At this point, I am not willing to sacrifice the chickens for a compost bin. I get too many good, fresh eggs! My husband does take the chicken manure and feed the shrubs with it, but I'm always afraid he's going to burn them (hasn't happened yet, though). I hesitate to use it (even after it's aged) because, simply, I don't know what I'm doing and don't know how to control the strength. That is basically my fear with any kind of compost.
BTW, I don't have a garbage disposal, so that's not an issue.
On top of everything else, I take care of my 88 year old mother (who can't walk). This is a major job and I guess I'm may just be looking for the easiest way out with the tomatoes, as I'm not willing to give them up, either.
FYI, I planted Brandy Boy (hybrid) and Brandywine (Heirloom) tomatoes this year. Surprisingly, the Brandywines are faring much better as far as disease is concerned. They may be all I plant next year.
Thanks for reading and good luck with your garden!

Genie