Greenhouse tomatoes - first time

[dave45]

I built a greenhouse in April and have stocked it with tomatoes, peppers etc but I seem to be having problems. Very few of the tomatoes are "setting" fruit.

What is the best way to make it happen?

[ina]

Is there plenty of access for insects for pollination? If not, you may have to help it along with a brush...

[dave45]

a brush? googling this topic produces the suggestion of a vibrator (!) rather than a brush...
as I said, I am new to this !

http://www.gpnmag.com/Want-To-Grow-Gree ... rticle2796

And yes I have left the door wide open for insects for the last few weeks.. then the ***** chickens got in, so I have had to make a barrier of wood and canes....

the joys...

[Marc]

It's probably been too hot for them. Toms don't like it much over 30 degrees so shading and all the ventilation you can give. Looks like it won't be so much of a problem next week so hopefully they will start to set now.
While we're talking about greenhouse toms, be careful if you use rainwater on them - don't get any on the leaves or stems as rainwater may have blight spores in it.
I always prefer to use mains water on tomatoes.


Marc

[Odsox]

a brush? googling this topic produces the suggestion of a vibrator (!) rather than a brush...
as I said, I am new to this !

If they are growing up canes then give the cane a tap about mid-day, or if they are growing up strings give the plant a gentle shake.
The object is to dislodge pollen from the upper flowers onto the lower flowers.
Tomatoes are self fertile by the way, so no need to transfer pollen from one plant to another

Misting them as SusieGee says mid afternoon helps as well.

[red]

i find they dont set if they get too hot or dry - at this time of year we have the doors left open day and night, and auto window openers. make sure you water regularly too,