A Tomato Haiku GARDENING

5) Problem: Tomatoes showing signs of needing nitrogen despite fertilizing properly (lower leaves yellowing)

Solution: Frequent watering during heat waves can leach nutrients, especially nitrogen, from the soil. If you notice this, you may need another application of your usual nitrogen fertilizer.

6) Problem: Plants are wilting mid-day, but the soil is still damp

Solution: As a protective mechanism, plants close up cells to prevent moisture loss through the leaves. When a leaf is wilted, it reduces the surface area exposed to sunlight and slows down water loss. If the soil is moist, the plant will perk up by late evening or morning. Please resist the urge to water it and re-check soil moisture in the morning.

7) Problem: Spots appearing on the lower leaves of the plant after watering overhead

Programs & Events

OSU Extension Columbia County 503-397-3462

Online Workshops: Registration is required. extension.oregonstate.edu/county/columbia/ events

Gardening Spot on KOHI (1600am radio) Every Saturday, 8:05 to 8:15am.

WSU Extension Cowlitz County 360-577-3014

304 Cowlitz Way, Kelso, Wash.

For connection info or registration for in-person classes: cowlitzcomg.com/public-events)

Online Workshops. Tues., noon:

June 20 Choosing Landscape Plants

June 27 Protecting Your Plants from Heat

July 11 Solving Summer Garden Problems

July 18 Summer Watering

July 25 Deer and Elk Management

Solution: The lowest leaves and those in the back of the plant are most likely first to show signs of fungal or bacterial disease from wet leaves. Water in the early morning if you are hand-watering so the leaves will dry. Better yet, water at the base of the plant, keeping the leaves dry. Prune off affected branches promptly to control the infection, and don’t compost the leaves. Remove the lowest leaves so they are not touching the ground. Vine/indeterminate tomatoes (the ones that provide tomatoes until the first frost) may be pruned to increase air circulation.

My favorite solution will help you avoid many of the problems resulting from heat-stressed plants. Don’t wait until something happens to your tomatoes — heat, insects, disease, bird damage, cracking. Pick your tomatoes early, when the fruit is just starting to get a pink blush. Bring them inside and let them ripen on the counter. You will get the same excellent fresh-off-the-vine, full-bodied flavor and none of the problems.

Let’s hear it for a great growing season this summer! •••

Kalama resident Alice Slusher volunteers with WSU Extension Service Plant & Insect Clinic. Call 360-577-3014, ext. 1, or send question via cowlitzmastergardener@gmail.com.