How to Care for Tomato Plants in Summer: Tips for Healthy, High-Yield Tomatoes

🍅 How to Take Care of Your Tomato Plants in the Summer

Tomato plants are one of the most popular additions to any garden—but once summer hits, they need the right care to stay healthy and productive.

With warmer temperatures, longer days, and rapid growth, summer is when your tomato plants really take off. A little attention now can mean bigger, better harvests in the weeks ahead.

1. Water Deeply and Consistently

Tomatoes thrive on consistent watering.

Instead of watering a little every day, it’s better to water deeply a few times a week. This helps roots grow deeper and keeps plants stronger during hot weather.

💡 Tip: Water early in the morning to prevent evaporation and reduce the risk of disease.

2. Give Them the Support They Need

Tomato plants grow quickly and can become heavy as fruit develops.

Using cages, stakes, or trellises will keep plants upright, improve air circulation, and prevent branches from breaking.

💡 Tip: Set up supports early so you don’t damage the plant later.

3. Prune for Better Growth

Pruning helps your plant focus its energy where it matters most.

Remove small shoots (often called “suckers”) that grow between the main stem and branches. This can improve airflow and encourage larger fruit.

💡 Tip: Don’t over-prune—just a little cleanup goes a long way.

4. Feed Your Plants Regularly

Tomatoes are heavy feeders, especially during the growing season.

Adding fertilizer throughout the summer helps support strong growth and fruit production.

💡 Tip: All-purpose fertilizer contains a lot of nitrogen which is great for lots of plants but use a fertilizer designed specifically for vegetables or tomatoes. Apply it consistently.

🍅 5. Watch for Signs of Stress

Hot weather can take a toll on tomato plants.

Look for signs like wilting, yellowing leaves, or cracking fruit. Catching issues early can help prevent bigger problems later.

💡 Tip: Consistent watering and proper spacing can prevent many common issues.

6. Harvest Often

The more you pick, the more your plant will produce.

Harvest tomatoes as they ripen to encourage continued growth and prevent fruit from becoming overripe.

💡 Tip: Check your plants every couple of days during peak season.

Visit Keller’s Farmstand

If you’re growing tomatoes this season and need advice, stop by Keller’s Farmstand. Naperville Farmstand and Oswego Farmstand will be closed temporarily mid-June to mid-July. Both will reopen with homegrown sweet corn and vegetables.

We’re here to help you make the most of your garden this summer.

📍Naperville Farmstand – 516 Knoch Knolls Rd

📍Oswego Farmstand – 2500 Johnson Rd

🍅 A Great Tomato Season Starts Now

With the right care, your tomato plants can thrive all summer and produce an abundant harvest.

Stay consistent, keep an eye on your plants, and enjoy the process—there’s nothing better than picking fresh tomatoes straight from your garden 🌿