Hey everyone! I'm new to the world of vegetable gardening and I'm excited to start my journey. I recently picked up some tomato and jalapeño plants from Home Depot. I've read through some posts here and figured I should repot them into larger containers and give them some support as they grow. I could really use some advice on how to water them correctly, especially with the heat in Southern California. Also, how can I tell if they're getting too much sun? Any additional tips for a complete newbie would be greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!
2 Answers
For watering, a good rule of thumb is to stick your finger into the soil up to your first knuckle. If the soil feels moist that deep, you're probably fine. If it’s dry, it’s time to water. Keep in mind that pots can dry out quicker, especially in sunny areas, so you might need to water more often. Using mulch can really help retain moisture, too! It’s like a blanket for your plants. Anything from shredded straw to pine needles works great. And for deeper watering, consider using something like a drip system or homemade watering spikes, which can give your plants a steady supply of water. Good luck with your garden!
You’re on the right track with those plants! Basil can actually be a fantastic companion for tomatoes, so consider adding some to your mix. They do well together and can even help each other grow. As for types of tomatoes, you’ll find that determinate tomatoes tend to do better in pots since they have a set growth size and produce all their fruit at once. If you go with indeterminate varieties, they’ll require some sort of support like a trellis. And make sure you’re using the right fertilizer. A balanced one will help with growth and yield—look for something organic and manageable like fish emulsion or a liquid fertilizer that you can apply every couple of weeks. Happy growing!
Totally agree! I love using organic fertilizers for my veggies. Just keep an eye on them and don't overdo it with the chemicals. Happy growing!
Sounds like a solid plan! Plus, tomatoes and jalapeños thrive in the right conditions. Don't forget they love sunlight but can get stressed in extreme heat. Maybe check their leaves for signs of too much sun, like wilting or browning. Plant them where they get morning sun but some afternoon shade if possible.