The question of proper tomato watering concerns many gardeners.
Tomatoes are a popular crop among gardeners, but only 20-30% of them know the basic rules for watering this nightshade crop.
Tomatoes do not tolerate dry soil but prefer dry air. The optimal soil moisture is 85-90%, while the air humidity should be 50%. A lack of moisture manifests in leaf curling and flower drop, while excess water leads to fruit blackening and falling off.
After planting in the ground, tomatoes should be watered abundantly and then left without water for 2-3 days. Subsequently, watering is recommended 1-2 times a week.
Dwarf varieties require only 2-3 liters of water per bush, while giant varieties need at least 10 liters. Some gardeners advise watering tomatoes every 5-7 days, even in dry weather. It is important to closely monitor the plants and determine the need for watering based on their condition.
The best time to water tomatoes is early in the morning, directing water at the root, and then loosening the soil. It is recommended to use warm water for irrigation. Cold water from the hose can lead to a loss of up to 50% of the harvest.
The optimal watering method for tomatoes is drip irrigation, which maintains consistent soil moisture and helps plants cope better with hot days.
