LifestyleGardeningGardeningThe simple task will ensure you get the best harvest03:45, 21 May 2026Updated 07:10, 21 May 2026Tomatoes are a staple in many gardeners' plots, as they can be easy to care for and are rewarding. Whether growing from seed, or a small plant, they can offer a large quantity of tomatoes to enjoy.‌While they are often considered a great beginner plant, gardeners do need to offer specific care to tomatoes. Monty Don has shared his own expert tips to ensure tomatoes thrive.‌He recommends doing a simple check on tomato plants in the mornings throughout May. The garden expert says now is the time to plant out tomatoes, if you haven't already done so.‌Monty buries tomatoes deeply, right up to the bottom leaf as the buried stem will develop extra roots. As the tomato plants grow, they will develop extra shoots, which can grow tomatoes but takes lots of energy from the plant.He said: "As the young plants grow they form shoots between the leaves and the stem and these are known as side-shoots.‌"They grow with extra vigour and although they do bear trusses of fruit, they take energy from the plant and reduce the overall harvest as well as making a cordon plant straggly. So they should be removed as they appear."Monty says gardeners need to check on their tomato plants in the morning to break off the side shoots as soon as they appear."The best way to do this is in the morning when the plant is turgid, simply breaking them off with finger and thumb," Monty said on his blog.‌"However in the evening they will be limper and may tear the plant so should be cut off with a knife."The RHS has also laid out advice for looking after tomato plants, and recommends watering them regularly. The soil should be evenly moist.The RHS said: "Fluctuating moisture levels can cause problems with the fruit, such as splitting or blossom end rot.Article continues belowPlants in containers dry out quickly, so may need watering daily in hot weather."Curling leaves can be a sign that a tomato plant is short of water." To boost fruiting, container tomatoes should be fed every 10 to 14 days with an organic high potassium liquid fertiliser once the first fruits start to swell.For tomatoes growing in the ground, mulch them to help retain moisture and deter weeds. Do this by laying a thick layer of garden compost or well-rotted manure around the plants.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Monty DonGardeningGarden