[Tomato Dirt #151] Tomato Weeding 911

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[Tomato Dirt #151] Tomato Weeding 911
June 25, 2018

Tomato Dirt Newsletter
Volume 8, Number 16

Dear Tomato Dirt reader,

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

Protect Your Tomato Plants from Extremes

In some places, it’s hot. In some places, it’s cold. Do you have what you need to protect your tomato plants so they can be healthy and keep producing as long as possible? Browse protective shade cloth for your garden. Take a look.

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FEATURE: Tomato Weeding 911

Usually, tomatoes are set out in the garden fairly close together, about 24-30” apart. Many gardeners find that the first few weeks are the only time they pull weeds around their tomato plants. Because tomato plants are still small, there is enough room in between them for weeds to emerge.

But you’ll only have to do so for a short time. Mulch your tomatoes when they have been in the ground for 3-5 weeks. Mulching tomato plants keeps down weeds. Each kind of mulch has advantages and disadvantages, so you want to review them carefully and choose the mulch that is best for you. If weeds are starting to take over your tomato plants, then consider these options:

Wood chips. Visually attractive and hold moisture well, but may not be readily available.
Grass clippings. Easy to work with, inexpensive, hold moisture well, but may contain extra seeds.
Black plastic. Controls weeds well and maintains an even soil temperature, but can make it difficult to water plants … continue reading

Read more about several different options for mulching tomatoes… and check out other ways to mulch tomatoes on our Pinterest board.

Best Tips for Growing Tomatoes

Interested in getting your own backyard beehive? Don't know where to start? It may The world's number one tomato Bible. Advice on 1300 varieties, soil preparation, pruning; and extensive help with pests and diseases from a leading industry expert to help you have the biggest, tastiest crop ever.