Whether they are beginners or people with a long history in the world of agriculture, growing tomatoes is not an easy task. Although it may seem an undemanding plantideal for small urban gardens, this may have its difficultiesespecially in the watering process, which can generate mold or even mildew.
The tomato plant is a plant that is usually recommended to people who are starting their first crop and who want get experience to plant vegetables and more laborious fruits. However, if not watered properly, a strong, beautiful tomato plant can easily become a weak plant and with stains, very difficult to get ahead.
One of the main mistakes made when caring for this type of plants is the schedule in which they are watered. It may seem that the time does not influence the growth process of the tomato plants, but a difference in hours can cause the appearance of mold or even diseases like mildew. Therefore, it is important to know in what time slot this process should be carried out.
What time is best to water tomatoes?
The tomato plant is a very sensitive plant to humidity and excess water, sowatering it overnight can cause this excess to remain too long in its roots and leaves. Contrary to what it may seem, doing this process at night not beneficial for tomatoessince the lack of light and heat increases the risk of fungal diseases that are difficult to treat.
On the other hand, water them in the morning is also not as effective as it might seem. Although the sun’s rays help dry those areas that may retain moisture, this is not the best option if it is cold days. This is because, if the soil is still cold, there is humidity or water falls on the leaves, it can cause the plant to rot. left exposed to water for an excessive amount of timecausing diseases such as mildew.
For all these reasons, the best time slot in which to water tomatoes is in the afternoonswhen the sun is not so strong and the soil has managed to warm up and dry completely from the previous watering. Specifically, experts recommend doing so between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.when there are still rays of the sun and the temperature allows the water to dry before nightfall.
Other common mistakes when growing tomato plants
Another of the most common problems when watering a tomato plant is the way it is done. Many people, perhaps due to lack of time or convenience, choose to do so. like rainfrom above. This technique causes water to remain in the leaves and fruits, without reaching the rootswhich is where they really need hydration. In addition, it is better that this be done slowly, with a thin but constant flow.
Likewise, alsoIt is necessary that irrigation be regularalthough without going overboard. Many people, for fear of drowning the plant, decide to pour a large amount of water on the plant and then leave it for several days to absorb it. This error, in addition to creating the undesirable humidity already mentioned, can cause tomatoes to crack by not standing the pressure. Therefore, it is important to water regularly and moderately, adapting it to the climate and the needs of each plant.