Tomatoes are the crown jewels of the Australian summer garden, but they need special care during our intense heat waves.
Choosing the Right Varieties
Not all tomatoes are created equal when it comes to heat tolerance. Look for varieties bred for hot climates like:
- Roma - Excellent heat tolerance and great for sauces
- Cherry tomatoes - Produce even in extreme heat
- Oxheart - Large, meaty tomatoes that handle the sun well
Protection from Extreme Heat
While tomatoes love sun, they can get sunburnt during 40+ degree days. Here’s how to protect them:
- Mulch heavily - At least 10cm of organic mulch keeps roots cool
- Deep watering - Water deeply 2-3 times per week rather than daily shallow watering
- Afternoon shade - Use shade cloth during the hottest part of the day (2-5pm)
Common Summer Problems
Blossom end rot is common in summer due to inconsistent watering. Keep soil moisture even and add calcium to the soil.
Spider mites love hot, dry conditions. Spray plants with water in the morning to keep them at bay.
With the right care, you’ll be harvesting juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes all summer long!