[missmoneypenny]

I have Ferline and Black Russian. They are full of fat glossy fruit, but still green with a few yellos and only 2 reds. Is it pointless feeding now? Also, how often should I water? I do it once a week, but give them a lot. No rain forecast here ( London ) next week, fingers crossed.

[gavinjconway]

I keep feeding till the last few are starting to colour on the plant. Watering depends on if you are growing outside or in the greenhouse. They just need a good drink once or twice week outside and maybe once a week in the GH. It all depends on the soil type and weather so difficult to give an exact answer. Dig down with a trowel and see how dry or wet it is - that would be your best check.

[gremlin]

I taper off the feeding. I'm on half-strength or even quarter-strength now.   

Strength  mixed up also depends on how much fertilizer I have left in the bottle at the end of the season.
I'm not going out to buy a new bottle now.

[mumofstig]

A deep watering tends to make the fruits split at this time of year, I think lighter but more regular watering is better - if you can get there to do it.

I'm feeding as normal, cos there are still alot of tomatoes on the plants 

[gavinjconway]

A deep watering tends to make the fruits split at this time of year..

Interesting - thanks Mum..

[mumofstig]

I think it's cos they get dryish between waterings and the skins 'set' - then with the sudden uptake of water they can't stretch any more and split.

[missmoneypenny]

Thanks his is useful. I ll give the little darlings a medium drink with a little feed. And keep praying the blight stays away. And yes I ll Bordeaux mix once more before the rain which is forecast for Friday.

[gobs]

Whilst heat and sun is forecast, I do keep feeding them. They are perennials in their native habitat, so it's just fine to do so, I think.