When to water tomatoes grown in buckets?
Question:I have 3 different tomato plants growing in buckets. I did not put any rocks or gravel in the bottom but I did drill some drainage holes. I am using miracle grow soil and I water about twice a week. I dont fully "soak" the plant with water as i know this is generally only done in the summer. I have a few tomatoes growing now on each plant but one in particular had a ton a blooms but they apparently didnt get pollenated as they are about dead. I am wondering if im watering too much or too little? Also if anyone has any growing tips I'd appreciate that as well.
Answers:
I have had plants in a similar situation in the past, and they seemed to grow best when I waited until the soil felt dry to the touch before I watered, and then got it pretty thoroughly wet. As long as you have drainage holes you shouldn't worry too much about over watering--it might be more than the plant would like but you won't kill it, and you'll know not to give it so much next time. If you're worried about pollination, make sure that the plants are somewhere that bees, etc. can get to them. That's the biggest problem I've encountered. If that doesn't work, there are products at your local garden store that should help.
it doesn't sound like you are waterring too much. It's good to let the leaves get a touch of wilt before you water. They have a spray that you can get from Gardener's Supply (just google them) that'll increase the number of blooms that make fruit on tomatoes and peppers.
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