[Tomato Dirt #80] Avoid These 3 Mistakes When Watering Tomatoes

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[Tomato Dirt #80] Avoid These 3 Mistakes When Watering Tomatoes
May 13, 2015

Tomato Dirt Newsletter
Volume 5, Number 7

Dear Tomato Dirt reader,

Welcome back to Tomato Dirt! Once or twice a month, we’ll send you this newsletter packed with tips about growing tomatoes and using them.

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FEATURE: Avoid These 3 Mistakes When Watering Tomatoes

Image: Rodale

Tomatoes are fast-growing, heavy-producing plants. They make a lot of food (sugars) in order to grow blossoms, develop fruit, and put out more branches. It takes a considerable amount of water to convert sunlight into energy for a tomato’s many branches and blossoms.

As a gardener, watering is one factor that you can control! Avoid these three common mistakes when watering tomato plants so you have healthy, productive plants.

Inconsistent watering. Consistent watering produces stronger plants and larger fruit. Tomatoes that have been in the ground for 10-14 days need consistent watering but also need to be strengthened. Give them 1-to-3 inches over 10 days or even 2 weeks – closer to 1 inch if the weather is cool, closer to 3 inches if temperatures are hot. The touch of extra stress on the plant pushes it to produce fruit.
Overhead watering. Water at the soil line, not onto the leaves and stems. You’ll help build your tomato’s root system. Avoid overhead watering, which spreads diseases.
Flood watering. Water slowly. Let water sink into the ground to help plants develop strong root systems. Drip irrigation is one of the most effective ways to water tomatoes. When the soil surrounding your tomato plant is moistened 6-8” deep, you’ll know you’ve done your job well.

Get more helpful info about watering tomato plants …

… and check out these great ideas for growing tomatoes in pots on our Watering Tomatoes Pinterest board.