The UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County released on May 2 practical advice for gardeners seeking to grow tomatoes with less water during drought conditions.
The guidance is important as many home gardeners are looking for ways to maintain productive gardens while conserving water. The program’s recommendations address the challenges of selecting tomato varieties, managing soil and irrigation, and controlling pests under dry conditions.
According to the program, all tomato varieties have similar physiology, so there are no truly “drought-resistant” types. However, some cherry or saladette tomatoes tend to perform better with less water than larger varieties. The advice notes that paste tomatoes like San Marzano or Roma can tolerate reduced watering if started that way from planting but may suffer from blossom-end rot if they become too dry late in the season. Drought-stressed plants are also more susceptible to pests such as thrips and mites, which thrive in hot and dusty environments. Mulching around plants is recommended to retain moisture and limit dust.
Soil type plays a key role in watering needs; clay soils hold moisture longer than sandy soils or containers, which dry out quickly. Adjusting irrigation by using underground pipes can help conserve water by keeping the topsoil dry while delivering moisture directly to roots. Preparing wide and deep planting holes lined with organic material is also suggested for optimal root growth.
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The program encourages home gardeners not only to continue growing their own food but also reminds them that efficiently watered home-grown produce often uses less water than commercially grown crops.