Tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum) like it hot -- but not too hot. The plants don't flourish until the daytime soil temperature is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. But growth slows and fruit won't set above 90 F. Fertilizing in the heat can force more leafy growth than the roots can support. As well, water-soluble fertilizer applied to the potting mix, or in the water -- which container tomatoes need a lot of in the heat -- can burn the leaves since it moves quickly from roots to leaves as the plant tries to cool itself through transpiration. To avoid these problems, don't fertilize a potted tomato when its soil temperature is above 85 F (30 C).
Cool containers
When your tomatoes live in pots, the temperature in the root zone can be higher than the ground, and even the air temperature. Water potted tomatoes deeply whenever the top 1/2 inch of soil is dry -- with no water-soluble fertilizer mixed in -- to help the plant moderate its own temperature. Mulch, a light-colored pot -- or wrapping the pot in a light-colored or reflective material -- and a pot with heavy, insulating walls can help a potted tomato's soil stay cool so water-soluble fertilizer is effective. Once the temperature is back below 85 F, apply 1 tablespoon of a 5-10-5 fertilizer per gallon of water every 10 days while fruit is setting.
When your tomatoes live in pots, the temperature in the root zone can be higher than the ground, and even the air temperature. Water potted tomatoes deeply whenever the top 1/2 inch of soil is dry -- with no water-soluble fertilizer mixed in -- to help the plant moderate its own temperature. Mulch, a light-colored pot -- or wrapping the pot in a light-colored or reflective material -- and a pot with heavy, insulating walls can help a potted tomato's soil stay cool so water-soluble fertilizer is effective. Once the temperature is back below 85 F, apply 1 tablespoon of a 5-10-5 fertilizer per gallon of water every 10 days while fruit is setting.
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