wind burn on tomato plants

Protecting Tomato Plants from Wind Damage and Burn

Growing tomato plants outdoors exposes them to weather elements like wind. While a gentle breeze helps strengthen tomato plant stems, extremely windy conditions can damage plants. This is known as wind burn on tomato plants. Here’s what causes it and how to prevent wind damage.

What Is Wind Burn on Tomato Plants?

Wind burn refers to the drying out and damage to tomato plant leaves stems and fruit caused by hot, dry winds. It typically shows up as

• Leaves curling up and appearing dried out or scorched
• Margins and tips of leaves turning brown
• Stems becoming brittle and discolored
• Blossoms falling off without setting fruit
• Cracking or markings on green tomatoes

Wind desiccates tomatoes by removing moisture faster than the roots can supply it Plus, the forceful gusts cause physical harm by whipping the plant around

Young tomato seedlings just planted in the garden are very susceptible to wind damage Their roots are not developed enough to supply moisture quickly to replace what the wind strips away.

Mature tomato plants can better withstand windy conditions. But prolonged hot, dry winds still take a toll through moisture loss, stem abrasions, and stressed roots.

Protecting Tomato Plants from Wind

Here are some tips to safeguard tomato plants from wind damage:

• Choose a Sheltered Garden Site

Avoid exposing tomatoes to direct wind if possible. Plant them in a spot shielded by a wall, fence, or other structures that block prevailing winds.

• Use Protective Barriers

Ring tomato plants with temporary wind barriers like shade cloth, burlap, or patterned plastic. This cuts wind speed while still permitting light and air circulation.

• Stake Plants Securely

Insert tall sturdy stakes at least 1 foot deep and use plant ties to anchor stems. This prevents the wind from thrashing the plant around and damaging roots.

• Apply Mulch

Spread 2-3 inches of organic mulch around plants. This preserves soil moisture to counteract drying from wind. Straw, leaves, wood chips all work.

• Water Thoroughly

Soak tomato plant root zones before and after windy periods. Deep watering replenishes lost moisture and helps tomatoes recover.

• Avoid Over-Pruning

Prune only to remove suckers and lower branches touching the ground. Keeping more foliage provides protection against desiccating winds.

• Consider Windbreaks

Use taller crops, trellises, shrubs, or trees as windbreaks to divert gusts away from the tomato patch.

• Cover Small Plants

Shield young transplants with cloches, tunnels, milk jugs, etc. to conserve moisture until their roots establish. Ventilate to prevent overheating.

• Pick Tomatoes Promptly

Harvest ripe tomatoes before winds cause cracking and bruising. Letting fruits over-ripen on the vine makes them extra vulnerable.

• Accept Some Damage

A few dry, curled leaves or cracked tomatoes are a fair tradeoff for enjoying garden-fresh produce. The plant will continue to grow and produce.

• Provide Aftercare

Following wind events, prune off any broken branches. Water deeply and feed with compost tea to help plants recover and perk up.

Is Wind Burn on Tomatoes Permanent?

Mature tomato plants are resilient and can bounce back after periodic wind damage. Remove any severely damaged leaves or branches. Keep the soil consistently moist. Within a week or two, new leaf growth should resume.

However, young seedlings are very sensitive to desiccating winds before their root system is established. Drying out at this stage can permanently stunt tomato plant development and reduce yields. It’s critical to take protective measures when acclimating tender transplants.

With preventative care and prompt remedial action, tomato plants can thrive even in windy garden conditions. Don’t let damaging winds deflate your plans for a bountiful tomato harvest!