Tomato plants can be encouraged to produce 'bigger and better' fruit this summer with one simple job, according to gardening expert Ish. In a recent TikTok video, Ish shared essential tips for helping tomato plants flourish, especially when fruits remain green and fail to ripen.
Watering and Feeding Essentials
Ish emphasized the importance of consistent watering during the fruiting period. 'You don't want this to dry out, especially at this fruiting period, because it's going to slow down the growth, and more importantly, it's gonna force some of these tomatoes to crack,' he said. He advised watering the crop every day, particularly during summer heat.
For feeding, Ish recommends using tomato feed, which is rich in potassium and phosphorus. This feed should be applied every one to two weeks throughout the summer. Mix a capful with four to five litres of water and apply directly to the compost around the plant's base, avoiding foliage. Ish explained that if tomatoes are green, feeding once a week can help provide nutrients for 'bigger and better fruit'.
Pruning for Light and Energy
To help fruits ripen, Ish suggested assessing the plant's light exposure. He recommended pinching off stems that obstruct others showing signs of fruit growth. 'Thinning out also helps preserve the energy that's wasted on this and puts it into the fruit, which is absolutely perfect for us,' Ish said. This practice also prevents mould in humid weather.
End-of-Season Adjustments
As the harvest season ends, Ish advised removing smaller green fruits to divert energy to larger ones, aiding ripening. These simple steps can significantly improve tomato yield and quality.
