Dehydrated Tomato Problems

Temperatures

• Tomatoes are summertime plants, and require frost-free growing seasons, but suffer in extremely hot weather. The University of Missouri Extension notes that tomatoes thrive in temperatures between 65 and 85 degree F, but suffer at temperatures over 92 degrees F. Increase waterings in extremely high temperatures to save the plants from dehydration.

Soil

• Tomatoes need deep, rich and fertile soil, with good moisture retention for long-term support. They fail in hot, dry or tight soil. Mix 3 to 4 inches of organic compost or leaf mold into planting soil to add nutrition at planting. Add new compost amendments every month to maintain soil quality. Organic material like compost and peat moss also holds moisture to support the plants between waterings.

Water

• Tomatoes are thirsty plants and require adequate moisture to maintain their lush, healthy foliage. Water the tomatoes with 2 inches of water every week and increase to watering every four to five days in hot weather. Water the tomatoes any time you see wilting or soil drying. Use 2 inches of organic mulch on the soil to keep it moist and protect the plants during high temperatures.

Site

• Tomatoes require six to eight hours of sun every day, and fail without this light. Stems become leggy and weak, with sparse foliage. Leaves grow yellow, wilted and unhealthy in the shade. Move shaded tomatoes to sunnier locations and use stakes or trellis systems to expose foliage and fruit to air and sun.