Craig McLean, manager, Geneva Greenhouse, Geneva, Ill.

Jon Weaver, owner, Martin’s Pet and Garden, Elkhart, Ind.

“One of the things they need to be thinking about is the nutrient levels—not traditional NPK, but calcium is important too. Even if you added calcium at the time of planting, you might want to consider adding it to prevent blossom end rot. We like using an organic product from Espoma® called Garden Lime. Epsom salts are also a good source of sulfur. Make sure to water so the ground is evenly moist and not bone-dry.”

 “To help prevent tomato diseases, trim off the bottom branches so they do not touch the ground. Damp leaves promote disease. Good air circulation under the plant also helps the leaves dry out quicker. When green tomatoes start to form, use a low nitrogen liquid plant food such as a 2-15-15 formula to help produce thicker leaves, which resist disease better. The low nitrogen, higher phosphorous and potassium liquid plant food also makes for a sweeter tomato.”

Mayo Underwood, owner, Underwood Gardens, Woodstock, Ill.

Rick Didier, co-owner, Didier Farms, Prairie View, Ill.

“Tomatoes require at least 2 inches of water per week in July, August and September. Water thoroughly and deeply, with the hose at the base of the plants. Fertilize every seven to 10 days by foliar feeding with a very diluted fish emulsion type product like Salmon Plant Food.”

 “To maximize tomato production in August, in the months prior it is wise to do the following: water regularly but do not overwater; apply a preventive fungicide according to label directions; add full sun and you should have an abundant crop of delicious tomatoes.”