No Tomatoes? Check the Weather

No fruit on your tomato plants? Blame it on the weather. Tomatoes thrive in warm sunny conditions; but temperature extremes can prevent otherwise healthy plants from setting fruit.

When daytime temperatures rise above 90 degrees and night temperatures remain above 70 degrees, blossom drop and poor fruit development can occur.

Cool weather can also hinder fruiting. Night temperatures below 59 degrees will reduce the amount and viability of pollen and consequently fruit production.

The simplest solution is to wait for weather to change. Once this happens the plants will begin producing fruit.

When hot weather arrives be sure the plants receive ample moisture. Mulch the soil with shredded leaves, pine straw or other organic matter to keep roots cool and moist.

If this is a yearly problem, look for tomato varieties better suited to your growing conditions.

A bit more information: With proper selection and care you will enjoy an abundant harvest in spite of less than ideal weather. Use recommendations from the local University extension service to find heat tolerant varieties and those that best fit your gardening style and cooking needs.