The red and pulpy tomatoes in your garden seems just right. But these small plant of tomatoes require a lot of care. One of the important aspect of the care is watering.
Many of us get confused on amount of water to give them and that can result in something bad for your tomatoes. So let us explore some of the tomatoes watering tips for their better growth.
Tomatoes plants require your full attention, especially during the watering for healthy growth and red pulpy tomatoes. Generally, they need 1 to 2 inches per week, but this depends on several factors, such as climate, soil types, and growth.
After the factors also the major consideration for the freqncueny of water depends on where you are growing them. In-ground and indoor tomatoes have different requirements.
In Garden Bed
The tomatoes in the garden beds sitting happily outdoors after a successful transplanting require a bit of attention for the first few days. In the early times, you should water 2-3 times per week until the roots are established.
After the roots are established and the plants reach the growth stage, the watering frequency should be reduced to 1-2 times per week consistently. Sandy soil requires 2-4 days, while clay soil retains moisture longer. Besides, hot weather can have a different effect depending on soil moisture.
In Container
So, if you have tomatoes in your indoor garden, the watering requirement is a bit different. It requires frequent watering as the indoor garden has warmer temperatures and a smaller soil volume in the container.
You should check the soil regularly and water it regularly when the top inch feels dry. Also, make the container at least 10-12 inches deep, allowing for proper root development. Water until the water drains from the bottom of the pot.
Now that you are a bit confused about how much to water the plant, it is time for you to understand the best ways to water the tomato plant. This is key to better plant growth and avoiding unwanted situations that can affect the plant.
If you want to get the best results when watering tomatoes, follow these tips and ensure that you provide appropriate care.
1. Understand Your Tomatoes Plant
Well, many of us may not know this. But, the species has a larger impact on the requirement based on growth habits, fruit size, and environmental adaption.
Tomataoes Varieties
The determinate species grow to a certain height and then stop growing after reaching a particular stage. They are compact and busy, which makes them suitable for containers or smaller gardens. In addition, the indeterminate species continue to grow and produce fruit until the growth season.
They grow and are vining plants that need support to grow. So, the determinate kind requires less watering compared to the indeterminate varieties. Likewise, the size of the fruits also impacts their development.
Environment Condition
The temperature of the tomatoes is around 70°F and 85°F for better yield. In warmer weather, you have to provide them with consistent watering to avoid any stress.
At the same time, in frosty weather, more water can increase the impact of the cold on your healthy tomato plant. In this season, the plants go dormant, so you have to be prepared accordingly regarding watering requirements.
2. Watering Methods
The next thing is the way to water the tomatoes. There are different techniques for them to develop correctly and resist diseases. Improper watering can lead to different problems like root rot and reduced fruit growth.
Soaker Pipe: A soaker pipe is a proven method of watering plants. It allows water to drip out slowly and provides moisture directly to the soil and roots without wetting the foliage.
Drip Irrigation: The drip irrigation system is famous for indoor plants, as you water to the base of the container. It is efficient and preserves water. At the same time, it also ensures even watering in the larger garden area.
Watering Can: Sometimes, the tomatoes can be a bit far where the pipes cannot reach. In this case, the watering can be a solution. You can water gently to prevent water displacement. Always try to water from the base of the plant rather than above.
3. Deep Watering
You must water the plant deep to give the soil time to absorb moisture. The water should be at least 1 to 2 inches deep. Use your finger to check whether the soil has enough moisture. This action encourages root growth downward, making the roots resilient in drought conditions.
Also, remember to water slowly, as it can help the soil absorb water efficiently. In the meantime, timing is also important as it helps maintain the moisture level. In most plants, the best time is early morning, as it helps to keep the moisture level throughout the day and allows any excess moisture on the foliage to dry quickly.
4. Allow Soil To Dry Out
After slowly watering the tomatoes, remember to let the soil dry out. You have to look for the potential for waterlogging, especially for the indoor tomato plant, as it can lead to root rot.
Although, you also have to make sure that the plants are not dried out completely, as it can cause stress to the plants and issues like less product yield. You have to maintain the balance where the soil remains slightly damp but not consistently soggy.
Since tomatoes' moisture level is quite sensitive, you have to keep an eye on the soil to check if it stays damp but waterlogged. The waterlog can lead your plant to the condition of overwatering. Besides, it is also an open way to the fungal diseases of the plant.
Use your finger or a piece of stick to evaluate the soil and adjust the watering routine based on weather conditions and the plant's growth stage. Water frequently in hot weather and less in the cooler period.
6. Do Not Overwater
When you water the plant, you might give it a bit more. This is not good in the long run as it can cause different unwanted situations, like root rot and yellow leaves, which can cause the plant to die.
So water at the base and prevent the leaves from getting wet. The wet leaves open the door to fungal diseases that can be fatal to the plant. To prevent this, you should stick to a regular watering routine and try to water regularly according to the plants' requirements.
Mulch provides the proper amount of water and reduces the frequency of watering. Whether your plant is in a garden or a container, the layer of mulch around the base can help. It can help preserve soil moisture for a long time. Further, it also reduces evaporation and keeps the temperature of the soil stable throughout the day.
The mulch acts as a protective barrier to reduce the impact of rainwater and prevent soil erosion. It also reduces evaporation as it shields the soil from direct sunlight. Also, the growth of weeds is reduced, decreasing the competition for water with your plants.
8. Observe the Health of Plant
The important thing is to remember to observe the health of tomatoes, as it gives you speculation about whether you are doing everything right or not. You can do it by looking out for the signs of over or underwatering. The signs of overwatering are yellow leaves, wilting leaves, and root rot.
At the same time, the signs of underwatering are dry soil, stunted growth, and brown leaves. If you see any of these signs, then take immediate action, either by providing enough water or cutting the water supply for a few days. Place it in enough sunlight until it regains its health.
9. Correct Pot Size and Well Draining Soil
Well-draining soil and an appropriate pot size can prevent a pool of water around the roots. This helps remove excess water and provides the roots with proper oxygen, keeping them healthy. Besides, a small pot can limit the plant's growth and ability to take water for the right balance of nutrients and water.
The mix of sandy soil, perlite, and compost is the best choice for well-draining soil. The pot should also be about 10-20 gallons, depending on the size of the plant. Remember to check the hole at the bottom of the container to allow excess water to escape.
10. Increase Watering in Summer and Spring
In summer, the temperature is quite high, and plants are in an active growing season, so you must remember to water them regularly. At the same time, early morning and deep watering are recommended. This helps to immerse the plant in the moisture required to deal with the temperature throughout the day.
On the other hand, Spring is the time for your tomato plants to grow, so you have to water the soil thoroughly and consistently. Water around 2-3 times a week, depending on the local climate and soil moisture. You have to maintain the most in the soil evenly to let them establish.
Additional Tip: Low Watering in Autumn and Winter
Autumn is the time to bid farewell to tomatoes' purple fruits, as it is the end of the growing season. The temperature is mild, so tomatoes require less water. But, do not let the soil dry out completely, as some species require adequate moisture till the end of the season.
In the winter season, the watering frequency should be minimal to no. Enough water should keep the soil moist. In contrast, indoor plants need less humidity. This means you have to water them a bit frequently, enough for them to remain moist.
These watering tips should be included in your gardening schedule. Sometimes, even after proper care, plants might not receive enough care.
It may be a common mistake that arises during watering. During watering, you must be mindful of how much water to use. Too little can make your plant thirsty, and too much can wash away nutrients. Some of the common mistakes to dodge are:
Inconsistent Watering Frequency
Sometimes, it may be hard to stick to our watering routine due to forgetfulness or a busy schedule. This has a significant effect on the plants, as inconsistent watering leads to the soil being too dry or too wet.
Furthermore, it can cause cracked fruit, late blossoms, and root rot. It is better to stick to the regular watering routine and ensure that the soil stays moist throughout without any changes.
Watering in Wrong Time
Watering at the wrong time also has a big effect on the tomato plant. The correct time is early morning, and the recommended time is evening. Evening watering can keep the leaves wet overnight, causing different diseases to grow in damp conditions.
At the same time, watering late in the day doesn't allow plants to absorb the required amount of moisture. It can cause stress and wilting of the plant. So water the plant in the early morning so it gets moisture throughout the day.
Not Watering Deeply
Watering alone is not enough. You have to water deeply enough for the plant to absorb water appropriately. Quick watering only wets the surface and leaves the root zones dry. It causes the roots to become more vulnerable and less stable.
So when you deep water, about 1 to 2 inches can help it soak to 6 to 8 inches. Moreover, deep watering helps reduce the frequency of watering and maintains the soil moisture consistency for a longer period of time. It also promotes healthy growth and abundant fruit production in the entire root zone.
Not Checking The Soil Type
Different soil types retain moisture differently. Sandy soils may require more frequent watering as it allows for quick drainage. The watering need is around 2 to 3 days on a regular basis.
Meanwhile, clay soils hold moisture longer as they allow for slow drainage. The frequency is around 5 to 7 days. Adjust your watering practices based on the soil’s characteristics.
Quality of Water
One aspect often should be addressed during watering: the quality of water, which is necessary for better health. Water with high levels of chlorine, fluoride, and salts can cause stunted growth, less yield, and even fatality in severe cases.
Even tap water can contain a high amount of salts and chlorine. So, you should let the water stand for 24 hours before using it for watering. You can also filter tap water. Different RO filters and activated carbon filters help remove impurities. You can also collect rainwater as it is free of chemicals and contaminants.
Not Looking Plant Growth Stages
The different growth stages of plants require different amounts of water. Treating them the same can lead to underwatering or overwatering. Right after the transplant, until the plants are well established, they require some water. But after establishment, you can reduce the watering to 2-3 times a week.
Adjust the water according to your plant's growth. Also, remember that seedlings need extra care, so keep an eye on them. As the plant matures, you can stick to a less frequent and regular watering routine.
Forgetting the Mulch Layer
The layer of mulch is quite helpful. Forgetting to mulch around tomato plants can lead to several problems that can affect their growth. The mulch can maintain consistent soil moisture by reducing evaporation with less water frequently.
At the same time, it helps to regulate temperature and keep roots cool even during hot weather. It also reduces the weed growth that can be an obstacle for tomato plants for water and nutrients.
Without mulch, the soil can quickly dry out and cause stress to the plant. It is better to keep a 2-4 inch layer of mulch, which is a must.
