Despite the fact that the harvest result often depends on the way the tomato seedlings were planted or grown from sprouts, even in the most successful cases the harvest is affect by how we take care of the plants. For every gardener to be proud of his tomato harvest, we summarized information from various gardening journals and websites to provide you with the most important advices on what to observe and what actions to take while tomatoes are getting ready.
Air temperature is one of the most important preconditions that affects the size of the harvest. During tomato blooming the recommended temperature is +18...+28 degrees since this is the most suitable temperature for pollination. For growing tomatoes it is also important to ensure that the greenhouse is not only warm but also well ventilated. The fact that tomatoes are grown in a greenhouse does not mean that they require humid air, in fact it is quite the opposite. The plants will grow much better if a door is left open or any other opening is provided to allow the air to circulate both during the day and at night. If the air becomes humid it promotes development of fungi and various diseases. It is not recommended to completely close off the greenhouse even if it is raining outside - a window or a door must be always left slightly open to ensure air circulation.
For tomatoes that have grown three feet high the lower leafs must be removed since diseases are most likely to develop on them. Since the lower leafs are the farthest from sun and closest to humidity, it is very easy for various diseases to develop, thus the lower leafs must be removed. It is important for plants to be stable during growth therefore supports must be provided.
Tomatoes require not only correct temperature and air circulation but also watering, and tomatoes are very particular regarding watering. Tomatoes don't like too much water and they will not tolerate long periods of time without water as well. Everyone has a different approach to watering, however, most people advise to water tomatoes the most during blooming, otherwise flower rot may occur. You can water less when fruits have grown, however it is recommended to water plants at least every two days. In watering not only the frequency but also water temperature plays an important role. Cold water directly from a well must not be used; water temperature must be around + 20 degrees C. Particular attention to ensure that plants are not dry and have enough of humidity must be paid during hot summer days. If tomatoes will be irregularly watered they will be much more susceptible to various diseases.
Another important aspect of the watering process is pouring direction. It is recommended to avoid pouring water from the top and making leafs wet. The best approach is to pour water near the roots, ensuring that plants are protected from excess humidity. It is important to water tomatoes gradually to avoid pouring large amounts of water on the roots in short amount of time. If there are several plants it is recommended to water them with small amounts of water, one by one, and then, after a short while, to repeat the process, however never pour half of the bucket on a single plant. After watering it is advised to rake the soil to allow the water to soak evenly and to prevent diseases.
It is important to cut away the side shoots or otherwise the harvest will be tiny, however it is recommended to do it while shoots are still young. Shoots are side sprouts and it is recommended to remove them when they reach length of 5-7 centimetres. The main branch is the one that continues to create new flower buds. Side shoot is the sprout below the main branch.
It is important to remember about mineral fertilizers and manure. You should not use manure from barn too often, however mineral fertilizers can be added in small amounts at each watering time. Spread of diseases can be reduced by fertilizers that contain potassium, however the main determining aspect that determines tomato resistance to diseases is the breed of particular plant.
By the way, greens like basil, onion and garlic protect plants from pests, thus it is recommended to grow them with the tomatoes.
