Up north, pretty much all varieties grow well, with subtle differences. In Bonita, the differences are much more pronounced. Each month, I will highlight one vegetable, and tell you which varieties grow best in our climate, along with other tips and techniques. This month, we will talk about America's favorite - Tomatoes. Soon the garden centers will be selling tomato transplants - but choose your varieties carefully.
Nematodes are a problem in sandy soils in and around Bonito Springs.
Choose varieties with disease resistance in mind, especially resistance to nematodes. Mulch the plants and keep well watered. Avoid overhead sprinkling and use drip irrigation if you can. If you must use overhead irrigation, do so early in the morning, so the leaves have time to dry out before the evening. I like to use Safer's Insecticidal Soap spray once a week.