When it's hot, I often water my container tomatoes 2x/day. On a 98 degree day with burning sun, I've even done 3x.

Depends on the weather, tomato variety, size of pot and type of soil you used.....I'd guess anyone would need a bit more info. :-)

The correct answer is wait until they need water - then water, but what Sugi said is right on.

Al

I would not recommend waiting until they show stress before watering. As stated above...many variables determine this. You are getting into the season when SoCal gets drying east winds. It is odd you ask us this in September...did you recently plant? Bigger pots are definitely better.

For tomatoes in containers, when the sun shines directly on the pot, the roots heat up too much and can really cook. I recommend that you either shade the pots (not the plant) or wrap the pots in a reflective material (like aluminum foil to reflect the sun light. Apply water as needed to prevent the soil from drying completely, usually every two days in the summer.

My tomato plants are still producing fruit, albeit, very few. They are inter determinate and in containers. I'm concerned about them dying from the cold. I live in Southern California, in the city of Murrieta to be exact. The average temperature at night is in the mid 40 degrees farenheit. I was advised to move them into the garage. If this is so, what do I do about lighting? Thanks for any insight/suggestions.

George

> Posted by CharlieBoring
> wrap the pots in a reflective material (like aluminum foil to reflect the sun light.

Several negatives with glary stuff.
The objective in reflecting light of course is to reflect heat.
Heat could be reflected without reflecting light, by means of foil lining the inside instead.

Question : can the substance (aluminum foil) be bad for plants in any way?
(Assume impermeable container material.)

George I lived in Murrieta until about ten years ago. Now I am in a similar climate In Sun City. Every once in a blue moon we'll get a cold snap in the 20s that kills everything but most years you can overwinter tomatoes and peppers. If they are already in containers you can move them to a Southern exposure with overhang from patio is perfect. The low Winter sun will keep them alive and, depending on the variety, they will ripen fruit. I have several tomato plants growing right now. They will not take nearly as much water during the cool winter months as they did when it was hot.
It is very easy to root tomato cuttings in water or potting soil. You might consider doing that to start with fresh plants in in the Spring.