In my experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have found that tomatoes thrive when they receive direct sunlight throughout the day. This includes both morning and evening sun. However, if I had to choose between the two, I would highly recommend morning sun for tomato plants.
One of the main reasons morning sun is beneficial for tomatoes is because it helps dry off the leaves from any overnight dew. Dew can accumulate on the leaves during the night, and if it lingers for too long, it can create a favorable environment for fungal diseases to develop. By exposing the plants to direct morning sunlight, the leaves dry off more quickly, reducing the risk of fungal infections.
Furthermore, morning sun provides a gentle yet consistent source of light and warmth for the plants. As the sun rises, it gradually warms up the air and soil, creating an ideal environment for tomato growth. This early exposure to sunlight helps stimulate photosynthesis, which is vital for the production of sugars and energy that the plants need to thrive.
Additionally, morning sun allows tomato plants to make the most of the entire day for photosynthesis. By receiving sunlight right from the start of the day, the plants have a longer period to absorb light and convert it into energy. This can result in stronger and healthier plants, which in turn can lead to better fruit production.
While morning sun is highly beneficial, it doesn’t mean that evening sun should be completely disregarded. In fact, tomatoes can still benefit from some exposure to evening sun. The evening sun provides a different kind of light and warmth, which can contribute to the overall growth and development of the plants.
However, it is important to note that in northern regions, where the days are longer during the summer months, tomato plants have the advantage of receiving direct sunlight for a greater part of the day. This extended period of sunlight exposure helps maximize the plants’ growth potential and ultimately leads to better fruit production.
In conclusion, tomato plants benefit from both morning and evening sun. However, if you have to choose between the two, I would highly recommend providing them with direct morning sun. This helps dry off the leaves from overnight dew, stimulates photosynthesis, and allows the plants to make the most of the entire day for energy production. Remember, every garden is unique, and it is always important to observe and adjust based on the specific needs of your tomato plants.
