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Blossom end rot (BER) is one of the most frustrating tomato problems—perfect-looking fruit suddenly develops a dark, sunken patch on the bottom. The good news: it’s preventable and manageable once you understand the cause. After decades of growing tomatoes in raised beds and containers in a Zone 9b climate, I’ve found that blossom end rot…
🌱 Why yellow leaves are one of the most common tomato problems If your tomato leaves are turning yellow, it’s a sign the plant is under stress—but not always for the same reason. In my experience growing tomatoes for decades in California, both in the ground and in containers, yellowing leaves usually point to an…
Growing tomatoes in containers is one of the most rewarding ways to garden—especially if you’re short on space, working with a patio, or dealing with poor in-ground soil. I’ve grown tomatoes in raised beds and containers for decades in Sonoma Valley, and I can tell you this: container tomatoes can outperform in-ground plants when you…
🌱 Why self-watering containers change everything If you’ve struggled to keep container vegetables consistently watered, self-watering containers can make a noticeable difference. In my experience growing vegetables year-round in containers in Sonoma Valley, the biggest challenge isn’t watering—it’s keeping moisture even. Traditional pots dry out quickly, especially in warm weather, and that leads to cycles…
Harvesting tomatoes Harvest tomatoes in late summer 50 to 90 frost-free days after planting. Pick the fruit when it is evenly colored but still firm. Support the vine in one hand and gently pull the fruit to prevent damage to the plant. A month before the first expected frost, start plucking new flowers off the…
Choosing the right tomato for your garden isn’t just about picking any variety off the shelf—it’s about matching the plant to your growing conditions, kitchen needs, and harvest goals. After years of trial and error in my own garden, I’ve learned that selecting the best tomato variety makes all the difference in both yield and…
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