I have been using diatomaceous earth to treat for earwigs. I have only put it under the pot, not directly on the plant itself on on the soil. It started to look sad but I can't identify the issue. I think the pot is too small and really it should be put in the ground. Do you think this is the issue? The leaves seem to be closing instead of opening. There has been a lot of lateral growth in the last week so I hope this is just the roots asking for more room.
Without a doubt, your tomato plant needs more room. Being a Heirloom indeterminate tomato plant, these plants are not recommended to be planted in containers, unless you have a very large container of 10 gallons or more. I grow only in containers, because of the lack of growing room available to me. I choose from the determinate varieties, as they tend to be shorter and stouter plants. Heirlooms are among the larger(taller) varieties and require much more root space to grow.
I put it in the ground this morning and I can already see improvement. Hopefully that's all it i! Thanks!
I am sure that is all it was. Just some TLC and you should be enjoying your tomatoes in no time. Just keep the unwanted insects at bay with some Neem oil or non-detergent dish soap, mixed with water and spray it directly on the bugs. Good Luck!
Can I transplant tomatoes in the ground from pots when they already have 2-4 inch green tomatoes on them? Will this cause problems? THANKS!
Hello Lana, This is possible, but it will be a delicate task. If you can get someone to help you, it will be very helpful. First, water your plant thoroughly to help compact the soil in the pot and to help reduce stress. The stem and roots are what you want to be very careful with, to not damage. I would highly recommend that you do not turn the plant upside down to get your plant out. Trim off the bottom 2 or 3 limbs because you will want to bury the plant in it's new location as deep as possible. The little hairs on the main stem will grow new roots, so replant it as deep as possible, up to the next set of limbs(leaves). If it is a clay pot, use a hammer and crack apart the pot, do not lift the plant out by the stem or branches. If it is a plastic pot, try to cut the pot down two sides and peel away the pot to separate the pot from the soil and root ball. try to secure the soil and root ball with cellophane or a wet towel to hold together the soil and roots and cradle the bottom as best you can. If the soil is compact enough, you may get lucky and the soil may not crumble away too much. Don't panic if it begins to crumble, just carefully cradle the bottom and sides of the soil and root ball as best you can. When replanting, again, bury it as deep as possible so the plant can begin to grow new roots. Then water thoroughly again. Here is a website for further instructions. http://www.gardenguides.com/105616-successfully-transplant-producing-tomato-plants.html
