[Geordie]

I've been growing tomatoes for a few years now and have only discovered recently that it is best to water daily at the base of the roots and feed at the top. So, this year I will be doing exactly that.

Does anyone know if this rule applies to cucumbers, melons or peppers ??

 :?

[gobs]

You have a very bouncy weed there.  :roll:

I'd think that's ring culture growing, otherwise I can't see how you manage.

[richyrich7]

Mine just get it all in one  

[Ice]

Never had a problem with the all in one method.  I also do the same to my cucumbers and peppers and use tomato food for them too.

[DD.]

I do all in one, but this is what Henry said on a previous thread...

One of the most important things to remember when feeding toms is that they have a double root system.
The lower roots are for water, and the higher roots are for feeding.  If you feed too soon the plant will turn up its lower roots to gain access to the feed and thus the amount of toms and their taste will affected, because the roots do not go down deep enough.

You should therefore only feed once the fruit starts to show and swell,  and then you should make sure that you are only feeding the upper roots.  So never soak the soil with feed.

If you water the upper roots the toms may be watery.  :roll:
For this reason I always use collars on my plants.  I water the bag and feed via the collar.  This makes for better trusses and sweeter toms.

[gobs]

Hmm,     I don't know what a biologist would say to that one...

I just think water facilitates nutrient absorption, I don't think there are different roots for this in many a plant, rather like outside and inside of feeding roots do different jobs.

Sounds a load of sugar, if anyone happens to ask me.

[peapod]

first year ive grown toms, and luckily enough I dont like em enough to be worried (now peas is a panic......) too much

Mine seem ok for watering upstairs ( not fed em yet though too early)

[ruth82]

When should you feed? Mine are about 8-9 inches tall now and looking quite healthy thus far, should I be feeding already?

[muntjac]

when the flowers set fruit feed. liquid feed on the leaves can burn them so take care