I have a raised bed planter for tomatoes and live in the DC area. The only cool/cold weather annuals around here are pansies, cabbage and kale. Can any of these be planted in the tomato planter in the off season and not have a negative impact on the tomatoes (just to make the planter more attractive- its in the front yard)?
Yes, absolutely! This will not hurt a thing. The tomatoes will kill off any remaining plants when they are planted out. There would be no problem in doing this.
We live in the city and there has been much reconstruction causing some rat issues in our yard and garage. We are planning to plant tomatoes this spring in the garden but are concerned about the rats that have been burrowing in the ground. Do we need to remove the existing soil and get new soil before planting this year?
These articles will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/urban/rat-control-in-city-gardens.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/eliminate-rats-in-gardens.htm
This ia for a science project. Could you tell me why you should or should not water tomatoe seeds with water? Same with just milk and again with just coffee and why?
To germinate tomato seeds (get them to start growing), you need to give them moisture, as explained here:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/tomato/growing-tomatoes-from-seed.htm
Milk or coffee might work, but they might have different effects on the seeds than water does. Think about the pH (acidity) of milk or coffee and how that might affect seeds.
This article has more information:
http://www.scienceforkidsclub.com/seed-germination.html
What tomato produces the most pollen?
Interesting question that I do not have specifics to give you.
The amount of pollen in flowers can depend on the number of male and female flowers, and many environmental conditions.
You may want to contact a research program that may be able to answer this question.
My tomatoes leaves have a dark tint and slightly curled. No lack of moisture. What may be the cause? They are not ripe yet. Probably 2 weeks away. Thanks, Larry
This would indicate that the soil has too much nitrogen, or that the soil pH is a little low. You can offset this by adding dolomitic lime, and anything with a high phosphorus and potassium ratio.
Here is an article that will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/tomato/growing-tomatoes-guide.htm
I live in Maine, zone 5b, but am in Florida now. I would like to start my tomato seedlings here. How soon can I start, should I take advantage of the warmer weather and try for 2-3months before I plant in Maine, around May15. Also, do I need to use small pots? Can I use a long tray instead.
As long as the weather remains above 50 degrees, or you can keep it close to that then you can start at any time. If you start in trays, you will have to transplant within a week or so. If you start in a pot, then you can leave them in for just a little longer. Just make sure they don't get subjected to cold weather, and they will be fine.
Here is an article that will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/tomato/growing-tomatoes-guide.htm
I have read that sweet seedless hybrid tomatoes should not be grown with or close to other tomato varieties. What is the reason for this and does it also apply to the Oregon Star variety of seedless past tomatoes? Thank you? What varieties of seedless tomatoes (if any) do your recommend? Thank you for your help
Seedless Tomato Plants should be kept away from other tomatoes, as to not cross pollinate.
Here is a link with more information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/tomato/growing-seedless-tomatoes.htm