Tomato Plant Water Supply

Question

Hi,

I have mature healthy Tomato Plants growing in raised beds.They have been irrigated daily through a drip system. However, I was away during the recent heat wave and the soil got pretty dry. The plants look great except for slight leaf curl at the base. All the tomatoes are still at the green stage, can I re moisten the soil without concern of the tomato skin cracking?

Thanks!
Sam

Answer 1

I don't think you have a choice. Tomatoes need moisture so if you don't water them, you will reduce productivity or lose the plant. Yes, uneven moisture is a risk factor for cracking but what are the options? With a drip system you are less likely to end up with soggy soil as sometimes happens with several days of heavy rain. You can always set it at a reduced drip rate or break the watering into twice daily so that moisture uptake by the plant is slow and steady.