Tips When Growing Tomatoes and Looking After Them
Because they are so susceptible to fungus disease, the foliage and stems of tomato plants should be kept as dry as possible.
On the other hand, as we have seen, the soil must be kept moist, throughout the root system, to keep the tomatoes thriving. You must therefore be careful when watering, whether you are doing so by hand or using an irrigation system, to establish the right balance of water.
Among the best solutions is to use a soaking hose system. This is a hose which is porous, or has holes placed along its sides, placed on top of the soil, which leaks water gently. A similar apparatus is a drip irrigation system.
If you plan to grow tomatoes every year, either type is a good investment. Either can also be used to water in raised beds or containers. If you are growing in containers, you may need to water more often because water will evaporate from the sides of your containers as well as at the soil surface.
A conventional lawn sprinkler system or
anything that distributes water at high
pressure is not good for tomato cultivation.
The tendency for leaves and stems
to be splattered with water and
potentially disease bearing soil
is increased.
While disruptions of the surface of the soil or mulch may not be as serious, they can still have an impact on the robustness of the root balls of your plants and is not worth the risk.
If you are watering by hand, take care to keep the stream as gentle as you can, and water at ground level. Don't panic if you do get a bit of water on the plant. Water early in the day so any water that does get on them will dry before nightfall.
If you live in an area that receives a large amount of summer rain, you may be able to water less often.
You will, in any case, wish to be cautious to guard against overwatering. If the soil is too sodden, the roots won't be able to get the oxygen they need. Too much water and fertilizer can also lead to
cracked fruit.