Why Isn’t My Cherry Tomato Plant Not Growing?

Question

Hi around 2-3 months ago i planted 2 seeds for a cherry tomato plant. One of them is growing just fine and i think the first flowers just appeared, however, the second one (the really small one in the picture) hasn’t grown and its been like that for a while now. What should i do? Ps: i planted both at the same time I live in Lebanon (a country in the Mediterranean) around 150 meters above sea level in a town called Jbeil (just so you have an idea of the weather). Thank you!

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Answer 1

That soil remains very wet constantly. I can see algae growth on the top. This will be the cause of any issues that you see now, and any future issues, since soils in this condition invite infections. Some of them don't show until flowering, some show immediately.

Once these have either finished, or have been killed off by something in the soil, it will be necessary to start over. Remove all soil and clean the container as well as you can. Bleach, Vinegar, and Alcohol are all suitable to sterilize infected containers.

Make sure that those containers have holes in the bottom to allow extra water out.

I would make sure to amend the soil with some organic matter to make it lighter in texture and consistency.

Water only when the top two inches of soil are COMPLETELY dry. not allowing a thorough dry out will suffocate the roots, as well as invite infections.

Here are some articles that will help you to grow tomato plants to their potential.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/the-importance-of-soil-for-an-organic-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/improving-garden-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/tomato/growing-tomatoes-guide.htm