To achieve a successful tomato harvest, gardeners must prioritize timely watering, mulching, fertilizing, pruning, and tying. These practices, while not overly complex, are essential for optimal plant health and fruit production.

Regular watering is crucial, with approximately 5–10 liters per hole, ideally once a week. Ensure the water reaches the roots directly to prevent leaf diseases. Watering should occur early morning or late evening, with the latter being preferable. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to fungal diseases like cladosporiosis.

Mulching and loosening the soil are important for moisture retention and weed control. Suitable materials include wilted mowed grass, leaf litter, or coniferous litter, but avoid fresh sawdust, which depletes nitrogen. Maintain a small gap between the mulch and the plant’s stem. If fertilizing, water first, then fertilize after an hour, followed by loosening and mulching the next day.

When fertilizing, avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth at the expense of fruit production. At planting, humus and mineral fertilizers should suffice for most of the season. In June, consider humates or a diluted microfertilizer solution. If seedlings appear unhealthy, a nitrogen application may be necessary. Calcium nitrate in June can prevent apical rot, while potassium sulfate in July supports healthy fruit development. As an alternative to mineral fertilizers, use a diluted solution of fermented grass or cow manure.

Pruning is essential in greenhouses to remove stepsons (lateral shoots) that divert energy from fruit development. Prune or break off these shoots at least every 10 days, ideally weekly, leaving a small stump to prevent regrowth. Greenhouse tomatoes should be grown with a single stem for optimal yield.