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Few things frustrate gardeners more than healthy-looking tomato plants that suddenly stop producing fruit. The vines are green, the leaves are full, and flowers may still appear—but no tomatoes are forming. This is one of the most common midsummer problems in vegetable gardens, especially when temperatures climb above 90°F to 95°F. The key point is…
Few things are more disappointing than walking into the garden to pick a perfect, ripe tomato only to discover a deep crack running across the fruit. The good news is that tomato cracking is rarely caused by disease or pests. Instead, it’s almost always the result of sudden changes in how quickly the fruit grows….
Cucumber plants are among the fastest-growing and most productive summer vegetables—when conditions are right. But cucumbers can also become frustrating quickly. Gardeners often encounter: After growing cucumbers for decades in raised beds, containers, and mounded rows, I’ve learned that most cucumber problems are caused by a few common issues: The good news is that cucumber…
If your tomato plants are growing well but flowers are disappearing, you’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything “wrong.” After more than 30 years growing tomatoes in Sonoma Valley—raised beds, mounded rows, and containers—I’ve seen this pattern every season: 👉 Strong plants don’t always mean strong fruit set. Tomato flowers are fragile. When conditions shift…
Sweet potatoes are vigorous—but when something’s off, it usually shows up in the vines, underground tubers, or the soil itself. Here’s a fast, practical troubleshooting guide. Vine Problems (Top Growth Issues) Lots of vines, few tubers Slow or weak vine growth Yellowing leaves Wilting vines in heat Tuber Problems (Root Development Issues) Small or no…
Artichokes grow best in areas with long mild winters and cool summers. Artichokes do not grow well where the summers are sweltering, and where winters are cold and the ground freezes, artichokes must be replanted each year. Perennial artichokes should be cut back to about 12 inches in winter and the roots and crown heavily…
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