[tomato] Tomato watering - PH - plant food
ChuckWyatt/Md/Z7 (Tomato@GlobalGarden.com)
Tue, 17 Nov 1998 07:35:25 -0500
G'day Jude,
You have different conditions in Australia than we do herein the U.S. but
the principles are the same. Constant water but not sogginess are what is
wanted. Watering deeply twice a week should do well for you. Avoid
wetting the foliage as this invites diseases.
If you are growing U.S. varieties you will probably be disappointed for a
couple of seasons due to your higher Ultra Violet level. Steve Parton of
Melbourne finds a two year acclimatization period is usually needed.
You should definitely increase your PH with lime. New Gippsland Seeds, P.O.
Box 1 (Queens Road) SYLVAN VICTORIA 3795 should be able to help you with
specifics
I find a 5-10-5 fertilizer used SPARINGLY gives good results. Avoid too
much Nitrogen and go with the high phosphorous to increase bloom, hence
fruit.
Good gardening,
Chuck Wyatt.