TOMATOES 9 



to close planting, but in these days we ought not to be content 

 with less than double that weight, and if we expect double, 

 then space must be given in which the plants can do the 

 extra work. 



The distance we have recommended is meant for plants grown 

 with a single stem, and that is the approved method of culture. 

 There is a system of growing with double leaders, and this is a 

 good system for short-season crops, though not so reliable 

 when expected to carry a good crop through a long season. 

 We consider that a well-grown tomato, producing from 12 Ib. 

 to 20 Ib. of fruit on a single stem, can use up all the energies of 

 an entire root system. (See Fig. i.) 



TREATMENT 



After planting, keep the ventilators of the houses closed for 

 a time. Do not water the plants heavily, nor go beyond a mere 

 sprinkling just to keep them fresh. (We assume that the soil 

 was not dry at planting time.) This method depends very largely 

 upon the weather, and the plants themselves will tell you quickly 

 enough if they lack moisture. We have on occasion had to 

 let plants go a whole month without watering beyond a sprinkle, 

 and, on the other hand, have also had to water within three days. 

 Here again, as often happens, we are up against a matter which 

 intelligence alone can handle. 



. The tomato house should be light and airy ; any attempt to 

 grow a crop in a dark, close house being foredoomed to failure. 

 If given too little ventilation the plants grow " weedy " with 

 attenuated foliage and soft, thin stalks. On the other hand, 

 cold blasts of fresh air striking the tender foliage will speedily 

 bring about that much dreaded " stripe " disease and check 

 growth. The skilful and considered manipulation of the venti- 

 lating gear is nowhere more necessary than in a newly-planted 

 tomato house, or one where the young plants are establishing 

 themselves, especially in February and March. The atmosphere 

 must not stagnate, it must be given motion, and no matter 

 how slight it may be, so that it really is motion, it will suffice. 

 To ensure this, sometimes one ventilator, sometimes another, 

 may be opened a little, followed later by two or three, due regard 



