A tomato plant that already has a high percentage of fruit may abort some flowers.
Tomato plants sometimes drop their flowers without setting fruit--a problem called blossom drop. This frustrating condition can be caused by the wrong climate, stress, poor nutrition or a number of other factors. Does this Spark an idea?
Heat
Tomatoes are a hot weather plant and need plenty of sun and warmth. However, too much heat can cause them to drop their blossoms. According to the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, days over 85 degrees Fahrenheit and nights over 72 degrees will cause tomato plants to lose flowers. Some special "heat set" varieties are better at resisting hot climates.
Humidity
These plants require a humidity range between 40 percent and 70 percent, according to Rutgers University. If the humidity is higher or lower than this range, tomatoes do not pollinate correctly. In low humidity areas, dampen the plants' foliage during the day to encourage pollination.
Nutrition
Plants with too high or too low of nitrogen levels may drop their flowers. High nitrogen levels encourage leaf growth over flower growth, while low nitrogen encourages plants to avoid producing fruit.
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