Tomatoes can be a little picky when it comes to watering frequency. Too dry, and they stop growing. Too wet, and the roots can rot.
We grow a dozen tomato plants every year, always a mix of heirlooms, easy-to-eat cherry tomatoes, and a few novelties from the farmer's market (this year: pineapple orange beefsteaks). Whether you’re growing them in the ground or in a pot, learning how to water the right way is one of the best things you can do.
Once you get the timing and amount right, you’ll see stronger plants and more fruit.
How Often to Water Tomato Plants
Frequency of watering depends on a few simple things: where they’re planted, the weather, and their stage of growth. Young tomato seedlings just starting out in the garden bed usually need a daily watering or every couple days. Once they’re more established mature plants, a deep watering a couple of times a week often works well.
Container-grown tomatoes need more frequent watering. Plants in containers dry out faster than the ground, especially when it’s hot. During dry weather, heat waves, or windy days, potted plants may even need consistent watering every day.
Instead of sticking to a strict watering schedule, it’s better to check the soil surface. If the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water. If it still feels moist, wait a bit.
Here are some basic watering tips that can help:
- Do morning watering so plants can dry during the day
- Gently water the base of the plant, not the leaves, you don't want wet leaves
- Use organic mulch to keep soil moisture from evaporating too fast
- Avoid shallow, daily sprinkles—go for deep watering
- Check container plants more often, especially in heat or dry conditions
As plants grow and start fruit production, their water needs may go up. Keep checking the soil conditions and adjust as needed.
When to Stop Watering Tomatoes
Tomato plants don’t need the same care all season long. Toward the end of their growth stage, you can slow down on watering. Once they've started ripening, too much water can lead to splitting or watery fruit.
You don’t need to stop completely; however, reduce how often you water and how much. This helps the fruit finish ripening and can improve flavor.
If the leaves start yellowing or the plant looks tired and has a droopy appearance, that’s normal at the end of the season. Just keep the soil from drying out completely, but skip the deep soakings.
FAQ
Can tomato plants recover from overwatering?
Yes, but it takes time. If the soil has stayed wet for too long, root rot may start. First, stop watering for a few days and let the soil dry out a bit. Trim off any yellow or soggy drooping leaves. Going forward, only water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Checking drainage and adding a layer of mulch will also help.
Why are my tomatoes splitting on the vine?
Fruit cracking usually means they’re getting inconsistent water. When dry soil suddenly gets soaked, they swell faster than the skin can stretch, and they crack. Try to keep the moisture level steady, even if that means watering more often in hot weather. Using a layer of straw mulch and checking soil daily can help prevent this.
