An expert has warned that the current hot and sunny conditions could cause tomatoes to suffer from sunscald, but there’s an easy way to protect your plants
The sizzling weather in the UK might seem perfect for tomato growers, but be warned—the intense sun could actually harm your plants. Due to the direct, strong rays, young tomatoes are particularly susceptible to sunscald.
This can lead to dehydration, making the plants weak and more vulnerable to diseases such as blight. Moreover, the severe sunlight can cause the fruit to become tough and even rot while still on the vine.
However, there’s no need to panic, as there is a handy fix. Deanna Talerico, an organic gardening guru and the brains behind Homestead and Chill, shared that you can shield your tomato plants with everyday household items, reports the Express.
She suggested several DIY shading techniques, saying: “There are a number of ways to create shade in the garden,” and “By draping bed sheets or specialised shade cloth over hoops, stakes, or other supports, using large patio or beach umbrellas, or even erecting large shade canopies over an entire garden area rather than individual beds or plants.”
For a quick and easy solution, Talerico recommends using bedsheets to protect against sunscald. They’re made from light material that diffuses sunlight without blocking it out entirely.
Choosing a breathable fabric is key to avoid overheating the plants, as heavier materials like plastic can trap heat and stress them further. With parts of the UK set to experience temperatures exceeding 30C this week, it’s a good idea to be prepared.
Tomatoes need safeguarding during heatwaves, when leaves wilt despite watering, or if the fruit shows pale, speckled marks. Deanna advised: “By reducing the intensity of the sunlight and heat beating down on plants, the soil stays cooler, retains moisture, and generally reduces the impact of excessive heat.”
How to protect tomatoes
Secure potted tomato plants with clothes pegs, hair clips, or garden ties to prevent the cover from touching the plant, avoiding potential harm to the juicy tomatoes beneath.
Choose a white or pale sheet to reflect the sun’s rays; dark hues might absorb too much warmth.
Position the shade cloth prior to midday to guard against the fierce noon sun, and whisk it away early evening to let in some much-needed sunlight, crucial for growing plump tomatoes.
Be aware that vegetables like cucumbers and peppers also risk sunscald, so if you have them at home, ensure they’re shaded alongside your tomatoes.
This simple technique is cost-effective and eco-friendly. However, continue deep-watering tomatoes and mulching them to keep them safely cocooned all summer long.
If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here