How to Fix Topsy Turvy Tomato Planter Problems

Tomato plants reward the gardener with an abundance of fruit.

The tomato is a popular garden plant that is quick to yield abundant fruit. Products are available today to make growing tomatoes easier. Products like the Topsy Turvy Upside Down Planter provide a durable, hanging container that eliminates the need to bend over to work or water. While the Topsy Turvy upside down planter makes growing tomatoes easier it does not completely eliminate all gardening problems.

Things You'll Need

• Topsy Turvy upside down planter
• 2 small seedlings
• Soap Shield
• Water soluble fertilizer formulated for tomatoes

Instructions

1. Select your seedlings. The Topsy Turvy allows two seedlings to be planted together for a more abundant crop of tomatoes. These seedlings do not come with the planter. Do not make the mistake of trying to plant seedlings that are too large. Topsy Turvy recommends plants "with a stem the diameter of a pencil, having four to six leaves and with no blossoms."

2. When assembling your Topsy Turvy you will be instructed to, "Remove the split sponge from the locking collar located in the bottom of the Topsy Turvy. Leave it in bag." The Topsy Turvy comes with two sponges that keep the soil moist. When correctly assembled these sponges should be inserted inside the locking collar to clamp around the tomato stem for support and protection.

3. Water your Topsy Turvy with a slow dripping hose. Many gardeners make the mistake of using fast running water which washes all the nutrients out of the soil.

4. Avoid traffic areas and use a hook that is strong enough to support the planter.
   Choosing an out of the way spot to hang your tomato can prove a challenge as the tomato plant needs lots of sunlight and regular watering. Avoid all areas with walking traffic as accidental contact can cause trauma to the plant. Children and the elderly are most prone to walking into hanging items.

5. Avoid a fungus infection by spraying tomato plant with a protective coating of a copper soap fungicide. Moisture on the leaves is a contributor to many garden blights. The upside down design of the Topsy Turvy makes it hard to avoid getting the plant wet when watering. A coating of Soap Sheild will protect the plant and help to keep it healthy.

6. Once your plant has grown 2 to 3 feet, add fertilizer to keep your plant green and healthy. Topsy Turvy recommends that you "fertilize with a water soluble fertilizer formulated for tomatoes."

Tips & Warnings

• While hanging the plant reduces many insect and slug infestations. Your Topsy Turvy may still be vulnerable to aphids and other garden blights. An application of Soap Shield will work as a preventive to fight many garden aliments. Soap Shield can be safely reapplied every seven to 10 days.

• Your Topsy Turvy planter is not just for tomatoes but can also be used to grow other plants like eggplant, peppers and strawberries.

References

• The Topsy Turvy.com: TopsyTurvy Instructions
• Gardens Alive: Soap Shield Directions
• Northern Gardening: Tomato Diseases and Pests

Resources

• Penn State University: Healthy Tomatoes