Tammy Algood of the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service offers tips on growing better tomatoes. Most people plant three types of tomatoes: varieties made for slicing, such as beefsteak tomatoes; roma-type tomatoes with good flavor and a firm texture; and cherry tomatoes for salads. When you purchase tomato plants from a nursery, consider several factors. The first is the ultimate size of the plant. The plant's tag will indicate whether the tomato is a determinate or an indeterminate variety. The former will stay bushy and compact and will continue to produce fruit after reaching full height. The latter will grow throughout the season and will sprawl if not contained. Don't reject a tomato plant because it looks leggy. The hairs that grow along the stem will turn into roots (figure A) if the plant is buried deeply in the soil. Just remove the lower leaves, and bury the plant all the way to the top few leaves. The additional roots that sprout will support the plant, bring in additional nutrients and help the plant produce bigger and better tomatoes. Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer at planting time to provide a continuous source of nutrients throughout the season. Tomatoes are heavy feeders, so they require more fertilizer than other vegetables. Fish emulsion applied every week is not too much for a healthy tomato plant. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which may cause the blossoms to drop off the plant. Once a tomato plant begins active growth, provide support in the form of a cage, a trellis or a stake. Place a support stake outside the drip line of the plant to avoid damaging the roots (figure B). Use twine to tie the plant loosely to a stake. Watering tomatoes well is essential to a bountiful harvest. Tomato plants have deep roots, so deep, infrequent watering creates strong, healthy plants. Bury a coffee can with the bottom cut out and holes punched in the sides near the base of each plant, leaving the rim of the can exposed (figure C). When you water, place the hose inside the can rim to deliver water to the roots, where plants need it most. Water consistently, and don't allow the roots to dry out. Experiment with different tomato varieties, and have a taste test at harvest time to determine which tomatoes you like best. Or invite your friends to a tomato-tasting party.
GUESTS :
Tammy Algood
UT Agricultural Extension Service
5201 Marchant Drive
Nashville, TN 37211-5201
Phone: 615-834-5162
Fax: 615-832-0043
Email: Talgood1@utk.edu
Website: http://www.utextension.utk.edu
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