Ask Burton!

This week’s all about the garden. Specifically, tomatoes!

 

Q: My tomato plants still look good, but have stopped being productive. My cherry tomatoes are still giving fruit, but that’s about it. I know it’s just what happens in the heat, but can I keep the plants in place and have them produce once things cool down?

 

A: Yes and no. It depends on the type of tomato, and if you can get the plant through the entire summer in good health. And if you’re willing and able to give some really big plants extra support!

 

Determinate varieties (such as Patio tomatoes, or most tomatoes with the word “bush” in the name) – they’re done. They won’t continue to produce. Replant, for sure. And it’s time to do so right now.

 

Semi- and indeterminate varieties will continue to grow and can be very productive in the fall – IF they enter the fall in good health. And that’s not easy. Plain heat stress over the entire duration of the summer, spider mite infestation, disease – all of these things give you a good chance that by the time we hit the productive window of temperatures this fall, your mature plants may not be healthy enough to produce well. Healthy young starts replanted now will be easier to carry through.

 

Every year’s a judgement call. This summer has been mild by our standards – you have an excellent chance to keep some of your older plants this year. Replant any of your plants that look stressed, and keep your most vigorous plants if you’d like to see how you do. Just be prepared to give them some additional support! The plants will continue to gain size, and commercial tomato cages will not be enough to get the job done. The largest example I’ve personally seen from a homeowner’s garden, the vine went up their own 8′ wooden fence, down the eight feet on the other side (their neighbor’s side), and as far again along the ground. Now, that’s the kind of neighbor all of us should wish for!

Tomato Plants are in Stock.

 

Check out the video below on how to grow Tomatoes!