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Tomatoes are among the most popular vegetables for Czech gardeners. They are easy to grow, but if you want a truly bountiful crop full of juicy and sweet fruits, watering plays a crucial role. Even the highest-quality seedling will not guarantee a harvest without proper irrigation and care. Read, how to water tomatoes, when, how much water to use and what to watch out for to get the most joy from your plants.
Watering – the foundation of success
When is the ideal time to water?
Water tomatoes either early in the morning or in the evening – when the sun is not too strong and the water does not evaporate so quickly. Never water directly over the leaves, because wet foliage is more susceptible to fungal diseases. Water should always go directly to the roots.
How often and how much water do tomatoes need?
- Under normal conditions, watering once every 2–3 days is sufficient, but thoroughly.
- On hot days daily watering is appropriate – at least 3 to 5 liters per plant.
- Surface watering is not enough – it does not support growth and promotes shallow rooting.
- Mulching helps retain moisture and prevent the soil from overheating.
Caring for tomatoes – more than just water
Basic rules for healthy growth:
- Regularly pinch out side shoots (so-called “suckers”).
- Tie the plants to stakes or string them up.
- Remove the lower leaves that touch the ground.
Ventilation and spacing:
- Maintain spacing of at least 50–70 cm between plants.
- Good air circulation prevents fungal diseases and rots.
Fertilizing – the key to a strong plant and a bountiful harvest
When planting, add to the planting hole:
- A tablespoon of wood ash
- A handful of compost or well-rotted manure
- Crushed eggshell
Regular feeding (every 2–3 weeks):
- Nettle infusion – a source of nitrogen
- Banana peel infusion – contains potassium
- Compost tea – a universal plant booster
How to recognize nutrient deficiencies:
- Yellow leaves = nitrogen deficiency
- Flower drop = lack of potassium
- Twisting of fruits = calcium or phosphorus deficiency
Prevention against diseases and pests
- Spray of milk and water (1:5) against molds
- Baking soda with detergent against powdery mildew
- Garlic or wormwood infusion against aphids
- Rotate planting sites – do not plant tomatoes in the same place two years in a row
Tricks for better-tasting tomatoes
- Plant basil, calendula or garlic among the tomatoes
- Don’t over-fertilize with nitrogen – otherwise there will be more leaves and fewer fruits
- Give tomatoes full sun for 6–8 hours a day
Summary: Love and logic work best for tomatoes
Tomatoes require regular care, but it will pay off handsomely. Water them deeply and regularly, mind the spacing and airiness, fertilize naturally and protect against diseases by natural means. If you follow these tips, you can look forward to a truly abundant and sweet harvest that tastes much better than any store-bought tomatoes.
