Protecting Your Tomatoes During Heatwaves
As temperatures rise, many gardeners find that growing tomatoes becomes more challenging. Plants that were producing fruit in July begin to struggle and stop developing. Thankfully, there is a simple and inexpensive gardening secret that can help – using shade netting during hot waves.
Tomatoes are heat-loving plants, but they do not tolerate extreme heat well. Heat stress can slow down or even halt the development of tomatoes altogether.
Why Temperature is Important for Growing Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a popular and versatile fruit that thrive in moderate temperatures. When exposed to extreme heat, tomatoes go into survival mode, conserving water and energy until the temperatures drop again.
The Role of Ethylene in Tomato Ripening
Ethylene is the hormone responsible for ripening tomatoes. It signals the production of lycopene and carotene, giving the fruits their characteristic ripe color.
Optimal Temperature for Tomatoes
The ideal temperature range for tomatoes is between 18 and 30 degrees Celsius. When the mercury rises above 30 degrees, growth is stunted and the quality of the fruit may be affected. It’s important to monitor temperatures to ensure healthy tomato plants and a bountiful harvest.
Shade Nets for Protecting Plants from Heat
As temperatures rise, it’s important to protect your plants from excessive heat. When temperatures reach 32-38 degrees Celsius, flowering and fruiting of plants can be affected. This is when plants go into survival mode.
Offers
Fortunately, shade nets can help provide the necessary protection. You can find a variety of offers online and in physical stores. Generally, the price ranges from 120-125 Bulgarian Lev for a 100-meter roll with a width of 2 meters. A roll of the same length but with a width of 3 meters costs around 190 Lev. For a 4-meter width, the roll is priced at 250 Lev, and for 5 meters, it ranges from 300-320 Lev. Most shade nets are made of polyethylene with UV protection to provide the necessary shade.
The benefits of shade nets
Shade nets are a great solution for protecting plants from excessive sunlight, with a coverage effect of 40%. They are made of three layers and are resistant to moisture, various types of mold, and bacteria. They come in a green color that absorbs some of the sun’s rays, helping to lower the temperature under the net. This protects tomatoes from sunburn.
Interestingly, these same nets are highly valued by car dealerships as well. They protect cars from strong sunlight and prevent the paint from quickly fading. They also provide protection against fine dust particles, reducing the need for frequent car washing.
Hanging
Unlike greenhouse fabrics, shade nets are easy to hang and provide versatile protection for plants and vehicles. Their durability and adaptability make them a popular choice for both gardening and automotive industries.
Protecting Plants from Freezing
When it comes to protecting plants from freezing, it is important to elevate the netting above the plants themselves. The easiest way to do this is by hanging it on stakes. Elevating the netting above the plants also helps to cool the soil.
Importance of Mulch for Tomatoes
When talking about soil temperature, it is crucial not to forget about mulch around tomatoes. Bare soil literally bakes during the day, remaining warm throughout the night. This is what experiments show. If the soil is completely bare, when air temperatures reach 33 degrees, its surface heats up to over 40 degrees. If we add mulch around the tomatoes, this can help regulate the soil temperature and protect the plants from extreme heat.
Optimizing Soil Temperature and Moisture with Mulch and Shade
When gardening, it is important to consider the temperature of the soil, as it directly affects the growth of plants. By using mulch and shading, you can control the soil temperature to ensure optimal conditions for your plants. A soil temperature of 34 degrees Celsius can be reduced to 30 degrees Celsius with the use of mulch and shading.
It is recommended to use a special device to measure the soil temperature and determine the effectiveness of mulch and shading. Mulch not only helps in regulating the temperature but also locks in moisture in the soil, promoting healthy plant growth.
Choosing the Right Shade Net
When selecting a shade net, it is important to consider the level of shading it provides. Shade nets with shading percentages ranging from 40% to 50% are ideal for maintaining a balanced soil temperature. Alternatively, you can use umbrellas or light-colored cotton sheets as an alternative to shade nets.
Meet Sofia Simeonova
Sofia Simeonova is a talented artist known for her unique and captivating paintings. Her work is characterized by vibrant colors and intricate details that draw viewers in and leave them in awe.
Originally from Bulgaria, Sofia now resides in Paris where she finds inspiration in the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. Her paintings often feature scenes of Parisian life, capturing the essence of the city in a way that is both nostalgic and modern.
Whether she is painting a bustling street market or a quiet café on a cobblestone street, Sofia’s work always evokes a sense of wonder and beauty. Her art has been exhibited in galleries around the world and has garnered critical acclaim for its unique style and emotional depth.
For Sofia, art is not just a passion but a way of life. She believes in the power of art to inspire, provoke thought, and bring people together. Through her paintings, she hopes to create a connection with her audience and evoke a sense of joy and wonder in the world around us.
