Tips for Growing Tomatoes in South Florida
Growing tomatoes in tropical South Florida can be a breeze with the right care. The bright sunlight that is bestowed upon the region makes for great tomato growing conditions. When growing tomatoes, it is important to have a good handle on the process in order to avoid issues that could arise and potentially destroy a crop. By taking into consideration the following tips, you can minimize the chances that something will go wrong.
Avoid Shade
South Florida’s intense sunlight is ideal for growing tomatoes, and should be embraced rather than avoided. Keep your tomatoes out of the shade when at all possible, as shady growing conditions can encourage pests and disease, both of which can have detrimental effects on your crops. Ensure that the soil you plant your tomatoes in is well-dried also, as moist soil is usually considered to be poor for growing tomatoes. If you have a lot of shade on your property, try to take steps to get rid of it.
Choose the Right Varieties
There are literally hundreds of different varieties of tomatoes that can be grown, many of which are known as heirloom or antique varieties. While many different types of tomatoes will thrive in South Florida, others will not. Know which tomatoes work best in your area, avoiding varieties such as Northern Delight, which are meant specifically for short growing seasons.
Proper Irrigation
One of the most important things you can do to keep your tomatoes healthy is to ensure that they benefit from proper irrigation. Dry spells can prove disastrous for your crops, yet they can be avoided so long as you spend an adequate amount of time watering them. Use a soaker hose to ensure that your tomatoes are getting enough water and to discourage fungal growth, which can result when irrigation techniques are not implemented properly.
