Vegetable Gardening: Tips For Growing Tomatoes |
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| By Dave Truman | ||||
There are two broad categories of tomato plant, those that form a flower cluster at a terminal point and those that continue to grow taller indefinitely. The latter are called indeterminate and they tend to mature very late in the season. That makes them subject to possible frost damage. Tomatoes thrive in dry air and soil, very hot temperatures, and direct sunlight. When tomatoes are subject to these conditions they grow large and plump with healthy leaves. Cold temperatures kill tomatoes quickly. Dealing with that potential problem involves employing a number of techniques. Some growers will utilize a small, mobile greenhouse to cover the tomato when frost is likely. Others simply plant and harvest early enough that the problem never occurs. Which you employ and when depends on your specific growing season - when it begins and ends. Conversely, sun burning can happen with other varieties. The plants that are affected by sun burning are well conditioned for northern climates, as they produce ripe fruit in 60 days or less. Tomatoes are also threatened by pests, soil issues, and common diseases. Large brown spots that appear at the bottom of the tomato, known as blossom end rot, are caused by calcium deficiency. Uneven watering practices can be the cause of this deficiency, as water transports calcium into the plant through the roots. There is also a soft spot that appears as the tomato ripens. If a tomato develops blossom end rot, the only solution is to remove the troubled tomatoes off the plant to allow others the best chance to thrive. Preventing the problem is preferable. Be sure to encourage deep root growth by watering deeply. Help topsoil retain moisture during dry times by adding mulch around the plants. Maintain 6.5 pH in the soil. A common irritant to all tomato growers are tomato hornworms. These four-inch larvae have a black spot on the tail and a large false eyespot. They typically blend into the green stems of the tomato plant, but are seen because they have long white stripes down their sides. When mature, the tomato hornworms are large brown moths that may have wingspans up to five inches. To keep these moths off the tomato plants, where they will lay their eggs that develop into larvae, plant marigolds, basil, and other trap crops. Aphids are another common problem for tomatoes, as they are with many plants. They are tiny (1/10 inch across), soft-bodied bugs that appear yellowish, green or white. They can be temporarily washed off with a hose but will return. Planting companion crops such as petunias, anise or coriander can help control them. But there are also many insecticide soaps that eliminate the problem without harming the tomatoes or you when you eat them. Though there is care required, adding tomatoes to your garden is well worth the effort required. Having healthy vegetables on hand is an abundant reward. |
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