In the early spring, many people's minds begin to wander to homegrown tomatoes. There are many practical steps one can take to ensure a good harvest at the end of the growing season. First of all, tomatoes must be planted at the correct time. They must be planted at the correct dimensions. And proper measures must be taken to make sure the plants are well cared for, which includes protection from pests and disease. This can be done using natural, non toxic methods to ensure healthy organic produce.
The Best Time to Plant Tomatoes
Many times seed packs will inform the planter which month to sow the seeds depending on the zone it is being planted in. This ' zone' is in reference to the USDA hardiness zone map. This map actually separates North America into eleven planting zones. Each zone is 10 degrees warmer or colder than it's neighboring zone. The National Gardening Association provides an online service where one can submit their zip code and be informed of the hardiness zone they reside in.
Doing so will ensure planting tomatoes at just the right time for an optimum growing environment. Tomato seeds will germinate when the temperature is about 65 degrees, though some people prefer to buy and plant tomatoes which have already been started, for the sake of convenience.
Dimensions
There are two different kinds of tomato plants: determinate and indeterminate. Determinate tomatoes have vines that grow to a certain point only, so they will need less room and support. They can also go by the name bush tomatoes. Determinates tend to have earlier fruit. Indeterminates are quite the opposite; they grow and grow and need support. And, they give fruit later in the season.
As a result of the differences, different dimensions are required for growing. Determinates (or bush tomatoes) are best for a smaller garden or container gardening. Interminates are best for larger gardens. Whether in a container or in a garden, tomatoes do need their own space for optimal growing. Especially with indeterminates, a few feet should remain between tomato plants so they will not become overcrowded.
Growing Conditions
Tomato plants grow well in just about any kind of soil, though compost will work well to help them grow. Some say that too much nitrogen causes tomato plant to grow bushy, but produce little fruit. To potentially avoid this outcome, it is advisable to use only a moderate amount of manure to fertilize tomato plants.
Also, tomato plants require regular, adequate watering. They will wilt quickly if neglected in this area. Tomato plants respond well to mulch. A thick layer of wood chips, straw, grass clipping or pine needles will keep tomato roots from being scorched and dried out and will also prevent weeds from growing.
Natural, Organic Ways to Treat Tomato Pests and Disease
Though many diseases and pests can afflict tomatoes, it is possible to control or treat them (when possible, as some diseases can not be treated) with natural, organic means. One easy way to prevent an infestation of pests and disease in tomatoes is to simply keep them off of the ground. Providing a stake or cage to support the tomato plant will keep it upright and less vulnerable.
Another natural way to keep pesky insects at bay is to release lady bugs into the garden. Lady bugs will eat insects, such as aphids, which feast on tomato plants. A natural insecticide spray can be made by adding 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to 1 teaspoon of nontoxic soap to a gallon of water. Spray mixture on plant regularly to discourage unwelcome guests.
Tomatoes can be afflicted with many different diseases. Sulphur can be used for a mild fungicide. Copper can be used for bacterial problems. See more tomato diseases and natural methods for treating them at the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service website.
Tip
Some experienced growers prefer to pluck the first flowers on tomato plants to encourage the plants to focus on the rooting system at first. After the plant is about a foot tall, blooms are allowed to remain – the result hopefully being larger and more abundant tomatoes.
Sources
- "GROWING TOMATOES - HelpfulGardener.com." Gardening Tips - The Helpful Gardener. Web. 15 Mar. 2010. .
- "National Gardening Association." Gardening Resources :: National Gardening Association. Web. 15 Mar. 2010. .
- "Organic Tomato Production." ATTRA - National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service: Organic Farming, Sustainable Ag, Publications, Newsletters. Web. 15 Mar. 2010. .
- "Tomato Growing Tips." Organic Gardening - Home Page. Web. 15 Mar. 2010. .
Angel Chavis - Angel Chavis lives in NC with her husband, daughter, and various pets. She is a Christian, wife, homeschool mom, writer, student, and ...
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