How often should you water upside-down tomatoes?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Watering upside-down tomatoes requires different watering techniques than traditional garden systems. Hanging systems dry out faster due to additional air exposure and drainage. It is essential to manage soil moisture daily when temperatures are warm. Managing soil moisture correctly can avoid some problems related to watering, such as blossom drop or fruit cracking.
Temperature Monitoring
- Water daily when temperatures exceed 75°F (24°C)
- Reduce to every 2 days in 65-75°F (18-24°C) range
- Water weekly when below 60°F (15°C)
Soil Moisture Testing
- Insert finger 2 inches deep to check moisture
- Water when soil feels dry at this depth
- Use moisture meter for more precise readings
Watering Technique
- Use funnel to direct water to roots only
- Water until drainage appears at bucket hole
- Avoid wetting foliage to prevent disease spread
For paying for a day of watering, morning watering is optimal for coping with hot days. I fill my watering can each evening. This allows the water to warm to room temperature, avoiding the shock to the root system of plants. Applying cold water straight from the tap puts a slight amount of stress on plants.
Set up a drip irrigation system to maintain uniform moisture while you're away on vacation. I have a battery-operated timer that waters the plants at 6 am each day, while we had a heatwave. When I'm gone for several days, I don't add stress to them by not providing adequate moisture! Straightforward systems under $20 can also save you time.
Be on the lookout for leaves curling as an early warning sign of dehydration. When my tomato leaves start rolling in, I water quickly and apply mulch. Early intervention can prevent permanent damage to the plants. If wilting occurs, they have been severely dehydrated and need immediate soaking.
As the temperature and maturity of your plant change, adjust watering accordingly. Young germinated seedlings will only require gentle misting, while established plants need to be thoroughly soaked. I also reduce the frequency of watering slightly if I suspect it's going to be cloudy for a while. After intermittent practice, you'll find your observations are the best guide for proper watering.
Read the full article: How to Grow Tomatoes Upside Down Successfully
