Tomato Time: Mid Summer Growing Tips for a Juicy Harvest

“It wouldn’t be summer for me without a fresh tomato harvest every couple of days.”

By mid summer, your plants should be lush and green and full of developing fruit. However, this is also a critical time for their care. With a little attention to detail, you can ensure a great harvest right through to autumn.

Watering: Get It Right and Your Plants Will Thank You

Consistent watering is vital during the mid summer months. As temperatures rise and fruits swell, your tomato plants become incredibly thirsty. Aim for deep, occasional watering rather than frequent shallow drizzles. This encourages the roots to grow deeper, making the plant more resilient to dry spells and heat stress.

How much is enough?

A good rule of thumb is to provide 1 to 2 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. The best way to check is to feel the soil about an inch or two down. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Water slowly at the base of the plant, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil. Avoid overhead watering, especially in the evening, as wet foliage can encourage fungal diseases. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are ideal for delivering water directly to the root zone, minimising evaporation and keeping leaves dry.

“Mulching is also really helpful to keep soil moisture levels consistent. I always mulch even in a greenhouse.”

Feeding Your Tomatoes

By mid summer, your tomato plants are working hard to produce all those delicious fruits, and they’ll benefit from a boost of nutrients. Whilst a good initial soil preparation provides a strong foundation, supplementary feeding can make a really big difference.

Focus on fertilisers that are higher in potassium and phosphorus, which are essential for fruit development. Rather than nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth. Look for a balanced tomato specific fertiliser, or one with an NPK ratio like 5 10 10 or 3 5 4. You can opt for liquid feeds applied regularly (I have feeding Friday), or a slow release granular fertiliser sprinkled into the soil around the plant. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid over fertilising, which can burn roots. Organic options like comfrey tea or well rotted manure can also provide a gentle, steady supply of nutrients.

Pruning for Productivity

Pruning might seem daunting, but it’s a vital practice for maximising your tomato yield and keeping plants healthy. By mid summer, you’ll likely see a lot of “suckers” – small shoots that emerge in the axil (the point where a leaf stem meets the main stem). These suckers will produce flowers and fruit, but they also divert energy from the main plant and can lead to a dense, overgrown bush.

For indeterminate varieties (those that continue to grow and produce fruit until frost), regularly pinch out these suckers when they are small. This channels the plant’s energy into ripening the existing fruit and developing stronger main stems.

For determinate varieties (bushy plants that produce their fruit all at once), less pruning is needed, as removing suckers can reduce their overall yield.

Additionally, remove any yellowing or diseased lower leaves to improve air circulation and prevent the spread of pathogens.

Supporting Your Big Boys

As your tomato plants become full of fruit, they’ll need strong support. If you haven’t already, now is the time to ensure your stakes, cages or trellises are robust enough to handle the weight. A sudden summer storm or strong winds can easily topple unsupported outdoor plants, leading to broken stems and damaged fruit.

Gently tie main stems to stakes using soft ties or twine, avoiding anything that could cut into the stem. For caged plants, gently tuck branches back into the cage as they grow. Regular checks will ensure your plants remain upright and their precious produce is safe.

Vigilance Against Pests and Diseases

Mid summer can also bring its share of pests and diseases. Regular inspection of your plants is your best defence. Look for signs of common problems like aphids, whitefly, caterpillars or early blight.

“By dedicating a little time to these mid summer tasks, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a wonderful crop of tasty tomatoes.”

Catching issues early makes them much easier to manage. Hand pick larger pests like caterpillars, or blast smaller ones like aphids off with a spray of water.

For fungal diseases, ensuring good air circulation through pruning and avoiding overhead watering can help immensely. If you spot disease, promptly remove and discard affected leaves to prevent spread. Organic pest control methods, like neem oil or insecticidal soap, can be effective for more persistent infestations.

Savour the Season

By dedicating a little time to these mid summer tasks, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a wonderful crop of tasty tomatoes. Remember to enjoy the process and always enjoy those tastes and flavours