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In the shade - PDX, OR

Just wondering what that tar-like sticky substance is on my tomatoe vines.

It smells a little funny, similar to the tomato itself but a little more acrid. I know that it is perfectly normal just want to know what it is.

The fruit is coming on really well. There are so many leaves that not a lot of sun makes it to the fruit to ripen them. Do any growers prune off some of the leaves for better sunlight penetration?

Thanks,
CEIS

8/13/2003 2:40:35 PM

Menomonie, WI (mail@gr8pumpkin.net)

Is this going to be a giant tomato. If so the big dogs shade them as well to prevent maturation.

8/13/2003 2:53:52 PM

In the shade - PDX, OR

No not a giant, just for enjoying - eating everyday etc.


But that is a good tip - might try growing the giants next year.

Thx

8/13/2003 6:45:00 PM

Montoursville, PA

Ceis........I have always left the leaves on unless they start to blight or develop milldew. I don't spray with fungicides but rather use kelp every other day when milldew shows up. That does a reasonably good job, for me, while feeding at the same time. They love that kelp. Earlier in the year I alternated fish and kelp and a product I have called Vigero-Cal. Now that the fruit are set just kelp.
....I have the nicest general garden fruit I ever had. All but the onions appreciated the attention. Think I had to much ferts for the onions. In this bed with no insecticides or fungicides I have a very high seven to ten worm count in a six inch by one foot square area. Some of the worms are nearing little finger size. Never had them like this ever.
Day in an day out that is a lot of castings and air lines for oxygen to get down into the patch. It has to be the extra goodies I am adding that is making the difference.

8/13/2003 7:57:17 PM