The tight temperature range is something I very much agree with you on. I think climate conducive to their growth play a big factor in disease immunity as well. I've seen them thrive like weeds in sub tropical regions. But for some reason, even in controlled conditions, they fail to do that well here in my area.

[–] Slowy@lemmy.world 3 points 1 year ago (1 children)

I always attributed more to soil and sun, because I grow great tomatoes easily in my garden every year. This year I did have to fertilize a few times, and they are only ripening now. I’m on the Canadian Prairies so not exactly subtropical. And I’m not that good a gardener either, cucumbers are often a struggle for me and my beets always get demolished by birds. And it’s been a good 4 years of various weather here and still, nice tomatoes. I wonder if there are some more locally adapted strains you could try?

[–] barnsbauer@lemmy.world 1 points 1 year ago

Going for some locally adapted strains is a great idea. Thanks for that! I'm actually a terrible gardener so I hadn't thought of it. I just used what little seeds my neighbour gave me, and in limited area because I tend to prioritise fruits over veggies and they are what dominate most of my garden. The little space I experimented with tomatoes on is currently occupied by legumes.