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Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

Great article about root system balance versus tomatpo splitting. I'm surprise the author doesn't recommend root pruning to balance the situation but folks of average intelligence can figure it out.

http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/dp_hfrr/hnewslet/ksht0630.htm#Tomato_Cracking_

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Tomatoes often have problems with cracking caused by pressure inside the fruit that is more than the skin can handle. Cracks are usually on the upper part of the fruit and can be concentric (in concentric circles around the stem) or radial (radiating from the stem). We don’t know everything about cracking but following is what we do know.



Tomatoes have a root system that is very dense and fibrous and is quite efficient in picking up water. Unfortunately, the root system can become unbalanced with the top of the plant. Early in the season it may be small in relation to the top growth resulting in blossom-end rot when we get into hot dry weather. Later it may be so efficient that it provides too much water when we get rain or irrigate heavily after a dry spell. This quick influx of water can cause the tomato fruit to crack. Therefore, even, consistent watering can help with cracking. Mulching will also help because it moderates moisture levels in the soil. However, you can do everything right and still have problems with cracking in some years.
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Undercutting the plant about a foot avay form the stem in 1-2 places a spade width apart can thin roots enough. This is especially important if the upper vines have been pruned & just a select prize fruit is still "on". One unforeseen downpour can cause splits since the roots are so extensive this time of year.

7/31/2006 12:16:49 PM