Watering Tomatoes: Complete Guide

Consistent watering is the single most important factor in tomato success, preventing blossom-end rot, cracking, and disease.

How Much Water

Tomatoes need 1-2 inches of water per week. In hot weather, established plants may need daily watering.

Best Practices

• Water deeply and infrequently rather than shallow and daily
• Water at soil level, not on foliage
• Water in morning to allow foliage to dry
• Mulch heavily to retain moisture
• Use drip irrigation when possible

Signs of Under/Overwatering

Wilting in morning = underwatered. Yellow lower leaves = overwatered. Blossom-end rot = inconsistent watering.