July is the ideal month for enjoy ripe, succulent tomatoes directly from your garden. Discover the secrets to ripening your tomatoes quickly and ensure a bountiful and delicious harvest as soon as possible.
Check watering
An irrigation correct it is essential for the ripening of tomatoes in July. These fruits appreciate constant humidity without excess, thus avoiding splitting and rotting.
Dose the water precisely
Water the tomatoes every 3-5 days, depending on weather conditions and the state of the soil. The goal is to avoid changes in humidity that can cause problems for the fruit.
Water early in the morning or in the evening
To reduce evaporation and promote absorption by the roots, water early in the morning or late in the evening. This approach also minimizes the risk of fungal diseases.
Limit vegetative growth
Concentrating the plant’s resources on fruit ripening is essential. Here’s how to do it:
Remove lateral shoots
The lateral shoots, which grow between the main stem and the branches, are very energy intensive. By removing them, you allow the plant to concentrate its resources on the fruits.
Prune unnecessary leaves
Towards the end of the season, remove old leaves or those close to the fruits improves exposure to light, accelerating their ripening.
Stop growing in height
If the plant grows too much without producing new fruit, cut the tip of the main stem. This technique limits vegetative growth and promotes the ripening of existing fruits.
Optimize exposure to light and heat
Light and heat are crucial for the ripening of tomatoes. Here are some suggestions:
Plant in a sunny location
Tomatoes need 6-8 hours of direct sun per day. Be sure to plant them in an area with good sun exposure to encourage their growth and maturation.
Carry out a mulch
Apply a layer of mulching around plants it helps conserve heat and humidity, as well as reduce weed growth. Use straw or wood chips for effective mulching.
Protect from late frosts
Although rare in July, frosts can still occur and damage tomatoes. Use protective sheets or plastic bells if necessary.
Lightly stress the plants to stimulate maturation
Mild stress can accelerate the ripening of tomatoes. Here are two useful techniques:
Temporarily suspend watering
A few days before harvest, suspend irrigation to create water stress. The plants will thus concentrate resources on the ripening of the fruits.
Pinch the roots
Using a spade about 30 cm from the stem of the plant, cut part of the roots. This induces slight stress which can accelerate maturation.
Following these adviceyou will be able to enjoy your ripe tomatoes already in July, making the summer even more delicious with the fresh and genuine flavors of your garden.
