Tomatoes are grown in gardens all over the UK. Now it’s getting to that time of year when gardeners eagerly await the fruit of their hard work, as tomatoes should start appearing on bushes from late July onwards. But it’s important not to ease off now, as staying on top of care is crucial to make sure they’re full of flavour and have the right texture when the time comes.
Experts say watering and feeding regularly is the one “essential” step to success. By July, tomato plants grow fast and need careful attention to keep them on track. Without proper care, the plant may focus more on growing leaves rather than developing juicy tomatoes. That’s why feeding and watering need to happen consistently.
According to the experts at The Sunday Gardener, “now is the time to water and feed”.
Whether grown outside or in a greenhouse, tomatoes rely on this simple routine to reach their full potential.
“Tomatoes need a lot of attention, starting with potting on, removing side shoots, thinning out the leaves as the plant matures, and regular feeding and watering,” the experts explained.
They added: “The essential step with tomatoes, to get the flavour and texture right, is to feed and water regularly.
“By July, the tomato plants will grow vigorously and it’s important to divert the plant’s energy into fruits, not foliage.”
As the plant grows, it’s also important to pinch out side shoots and thin the leaves.
This stops the plant from becoming too bushy and helps sunlight reach the fruit.
The experts explained: “Tomatoes are a vigorous plant, and you need to keep them in check.
“Nip out all side shoots, and thin down, which means cut off leaves to add light for when the flowers turn to fruit and to restrict growth.”
If you’re growing upright (or cordon) tomatoes, once three or four trusses of flowers have appeared, you should remove the growing tip at the top of the plant.
This will direct energy to the fruit, not the leaves, and help ensure tomatoes develop properly.
Support is another important factor. Stems should be tied loosely to canes or supports with soft ties, allowing room for growth and preventing damage.
“The tie may be loose when first placed on the plant, but as the stem grows, it can become tight, which will damage the stem and wound the plant,” the experts warned.
Tomatoes grown in containers may need even more care, as pots dry out quickly in summer.
In hot weather, this could mean watering daily or even more frequently during heatwaves.
The guide also recommends planning ahead if you’re going on holiday, either by using irrigation kits or asking a friend or neighbour to help.