Edible gardening has always been a rewarding pursuit, and among the many vegetables that gardeners love to grow, tomatoes hold a special place. Gardeners are constantly on the hunt for ways to boost their tomato harvest, trying all sorts of wild and wonderful methods. But which ones actually work? We turned to a tomato - growing expert to find out.

One of the most common practices that gardeners swear by is companion planting. The idea behind companion planting is that certain plants can benefit each other when grown in close proximity. For tomatoes, basil is often cited as an ideal companion. Basil is said to enhance the flavor of tomatoes and also repel some common pests. The expert explains that the aromatic oils in basil can mask the scent of tomatoes, making them less attractive to insects. "When you plant basil near your tomatoes, it's like creating a natural barrier," the expert says. "The pests get confused and are less likely to target your precious tomato plants."

Another popular method is using eggshells in the soil. Many gardeners believe that crushed eggshells can provide calcium to the tomato plants, which is essential for healthy growth and preventing blossom - end rot. The expert confirms that this method has some merit. "Eggshells are a great source of calcium," he says. "As they break down in the soil, they slowly release this important nutrient. However, it's important to crush the eggshells finely so that they can be more easily absorbed by the plants."

Some gardeners also experiment with different watering techniques. Over - watering can lead to problems such as root rot, while under - watering can stress the plants and reduce the yield. The expert recommends a deep, infrequent watering schedule. "Tomatoes have deep roots, so it's better to water them deeply once or twice a week rather than giving them a light sprinkle every day," he advises. "This encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, making the plants more resilient."

Pruning is another aspect of tomato growing that can have a significant impact on the harvest. Removing the suckers, which are the small shoots that grow in the crotch between the main stem and the branches, can help the plant focus its energy on producing fruit. The expert warns, however, not to go overboard with pruning. "You don't want to remove too many leaves, as they are essential for photosynthesis, which provides energy for the plant," he says. "A balanced approach to pruning is key."

Using organic fertilizers is also a common practice among tomato growers. Compost, manure, and fish emulsion are all popular choices. The expert emphasizes the importance of using high - quality organic fertilizers. "Organic fertilizers not only provide essential nutrients to the plants but also improve the soil structure," he says. "This creates a healthy environment for the roots to grow and thrive."

In addition to these methods, the expert also mentions the importance of choosing the right tomato varieties for your climate. Some varieties are more heat - tolerant, while others are better suited for cooler temperatures. "Do your research and select the varieties that are known to perform well in your area," he advises. "This can make a big difference in the success of your tomato harvest."

Finally, the expert encourages gardeners to be patient and observant. "Tomato growing is a learning process," he says. "Pay attention to how your plants are responding to different methods and make adjustments as needed. With a little bit of knowledge and a lot of love, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest year after year."